Cathay Pacific is expanding its fleet and reinforcing its position in the Asia-Pacific aviation market with an order for 14 additional Boeing 777-9 aircraft, bringing its total order of the next-generation jets to 35.
The move will make the Hong Kong-based airline the largest operator of the 777-9 in the region. Known as the world’s largest twin-engine passenger aircraft, the 777-9 is part of Boeing’s 777X family and is designed to deliver major operational and environmental benefits, including 20% less fuel use and emissions, and a 40% noise reduction compared to the aircraft it replaces.
Cathay Group CEO Ronald Lam said the new aircraft would play a vital role in both fleet renewal and future growth plans.
“We plan to expand and renew our fleet with the additional 777-9 aircraft, enabling us to continue our rich history of connecting the world with our Hong Kong hub,” he said. “Cathay Pacific aims to further strengthen our ongoing partnership with Boeing and leverage the world-class features of the new 777-9 as we strive to become the world’s best premium airline.”
The long-standing relationship between Cathay Pacific and Boeing spans over three decades. The airline has relied on the Boeing 777 family to grow its long-haul passenger and cargo operations, and the 777-9 will now become the airline’s new flagship aircraft.
Boeing welcomed the order, highlighting the continued confidence Cathay has in its widebody jets.
“This latest order demonstrates the value of the 777-9 and further strengthens the airline’s tradition of delivering superb comfort, convenience and connectivity to passengers for years to come,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing’s senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.
With a range of 7,295 nautical miles (13,510 kilometres), the 777-9 gives Cathay Pacific greater flexibility to operate direct, ultra-long-haul routes from its Hong Kong base to key destinations worldwide.
Globally, more than 550 aircraft in the 777X family have been ordered to date, and the programme continues to support thousands of jobs across Boeing’s U.S. production and global supply chain.
The latest order underlines Cathay Pacific’s post-pandemic growth ambitions and the wider recovery of international travel in Asia.
