Cathay and its 80-year journey: Hong Kong's legacy takes flight with a multi-billion dollar ambition.

09/01/2026

Cathay officially launched its "80 Years of Connection" campaign, marking eight decades of partnership with Hong Kong's development since 1946. The highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of the heritage-designed Airbus A350 aircraft, along with a strategic investment plan of over HK$100 billion to comprehensively upgrade services and the fleet.

Cathay has officially launched its "80 Years of Partnership" campaign. This event not only marks a milestone reflecting on the journey since 1946 but also affirms an ambitious new chapter, where traditional heritage blends with a multi-billion dollar investment strategy in technology and services.

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A heritage icon in the modern sky.

The most eye-catching highlight at the launch ceremony was the appearance of the Airbus A350 with its new, specially designed livery. On the aircraft's fuselage, the iconic "lettuce leaf sandwich" emblem – a legendary symbol with Cathay's distinctive blue and white stripes – was elegantly recreated.

Điểm nhấn thu hút sự chú ý nhất tại lễ khởi động là sự xuất hiện của chiếc Airbus A350 với lớp áo mới mang thiết kế đặc biệt

The most eye-catching highlight at the launch ceremony was the appearance of the Airbus A350 with its new, specially designed exterior.

Bringing classic design elements to the world's most modern wide-body aircraft sends a powerful visual message: Cathay cherishes the past but is always striving to lead the future. According to the airline, this design will also soon appear on a Boeing 747 cargo plane in the coming weeks, symbolizing the airline's comprehensive integration into both global passenger transport and logistics.

Thiết kế biểu tượng ‘bánh kẹp lá xà lách’ trên một chiếc Airbus A350 của Cathay thể hiện sự tri ân đối với kiểu sơn sọc xanh-trắng được yêu thích. Một thiết kế ‘lá xà lách kẹp’ thứ hai trên chiếc Boeing 747 chở hàng của Cathay cũng sẽ được công bố trong vài tuần tới

The 'lettuce sandwich' logo design on one of Cathay's Airbus A350s pays homage to the beloved blue-and-white striped livery. A second 'lettuce sandwich' design on Cathay's Boeing 747 cargo plane will also be unveiled in the coming weeks.

The event was chaired by the Group's senior leadership team, including CEO Ronald Lam, Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau, Chief Operating Officer Alex McGowan, and Chief Financial Officer Rebecca Sharpe. The full presence of the executive team demonstrates the strategic importance of this 80th anniversary milestone for the company's future.

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"80 Years of Connection"

Speaking at the ceremony, CEO Ronald Lam emphasized that Cathay's history is inseparable from the ups and downs of Hong Kong. "We have grown together over eight decades, from the old runways at Kai Tak to the modern Chek Lap Kok International Airport," Mr. Lam shared.

This relationship is not simply about aviation business, but about an "interconnection" in every aspect of life: from flights carrying students to pursue knowledge, to trade exchanges that open up economic opportunities, to its vital role in transporting essential goods during times of crisis. Cathay positions itself as an integral part of the DNA of this special economic zone, a carrier of memories and hopes for the people of Hong Kong.

Tổng Giám đốc Ronald Lam của Cathay Pacific

CEO Ronald Lam of Cathay Pacific

Xuyên suốt năm 2026, khoảng 1.000 đến 2.000 tiếp viên và nhân viên mặt đất của Cathay sẽ mặc và xuất hiện với những bộ đồng phục cổ điển này trong công việc thường nhật

Throughout 2026, approximately 1,000 to 2,000 Cathay Pacific flight attendants and ground staff will wear and appear in these classic uniforms in their daily work.

In addition, Cathay Pacific announced a bold development roadmap. With a massive investment of over HK$100 billion, the airline is focusing on comprehensively upgrading its service ecosystem. A new generation fleet aims to optimize efficiency and reduce emissions. The passenger cabin experience is being redefined to provide luxury and comfort in the air. Business lounges are being elevated to the level of relaxation spaces, transforming them into works of art. Simultaneously, Cathay Pacific is applying technology to personalize each customer's journey. Cathay Pacific aspires to be more than just an airline; it aims to become "the world's most beloved service brand."

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One of the most impressive activities was the flight attendants' performance in classic uniforms from different eras. This was not just a fashion show, but a tribute to the generations of employees who have built Cathay's exemplary service standards.

Throughout 2026, passengers will have the rare opportunity to see between 1,000 and 2,000 ground staff and flight attendants wearing these iconic designs while on duty. The appearance of these classic designs and tailoring from previous decades on modern flights promises to provide a unique and memorable experience for passengers who have traveled with the airline for decades.

In addition, Cathay also unveiled an exclusive collection of products inspired by its 80-year history, including aviation items, travel gear, and premium lifestyle products, to meet the needs of its loyal customers.

Một bộ sưu tập các sản phẩm tinh tuyển, tái hiện những thiết kế mang tính biểu tượng từ nhiều giai đoạn trong lịch sử của Cathay, sẽ được ra mắt dần theo từng đợt

A curated collection of products, reimagining iconic designs from various periods in Cathay's history, will be released in stages.

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