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The official landing of Cathay Pacific's classic-looking Airbus A350 at Noi Bai International Airport on May 6th became the focus of attention for Vietnam's aviation industry and media. This was not simply a routine commercial flight, but a significant milestone in the Hong Kong-based airline's "80 Years of Partnership" celebration campaign. Choosing Hanoi as the destination for the aircraft with its iconic livery affirmed the strategic position of the Vietnamese market within the airline's international network, while also evoking memories of a journey spanning nearly a century.
The distinctive livery on this Airbus A350 is dubbed the "lettuce sandwich" by enthusiasts, an iconic design featuring characteristic blue and white stripes. This design was associated with Cathay Pacific's early years of global expansion, symbolizing reliability and a pioneering spirit. Recreating this classic style on one of the world's most modern wide-body aircraft, the Airbus A350, is a sophisticated blend of heritage and future technology, providing a visually captivating experience for passengers and staff at Terminal 2.
A Cathay Pacific Airbus A350, sporting its iconic livery, lands at Noi Bai International Airport.
Looking back at history, the relationship between Cathay Pacific and Vietnam began very early, in 1949. The first DC-3 flights to Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong in November laid the foundation for the airline's enduring presence in the country. Over more than seven decades, the airline has witnessed the strong transformation of Vietnam's economy. From the opening of its office in Ho Chi Minh City in 1992 to the historic codeshare flight with Vietnam Airlines in 1991, Cathay has always been an important bridge connecting trade and culture. According to Ms. Kelly Tsang, Regional Director of Cathay, Vietnam remains one of the airline's most important markets in Southeast Asia, with an impressive frequency of up to 35 flights per week from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Hong Kong.
For its 80th anniversary celebration, Cathay Pacific launched a comprehensive campaign to honor human values and local cultural identity. In addition to the Airbus A350-900 that recently landed in Hanoi, the airline also unveiled two other special editions: a Boeing 747-8F cargo plane and a Boeing 777-300ER named "Spirit of Hong Kong." Notably, the artistic version on the Boeing 777 is the result of a collaboration with the West Kowloon Cultural District Management Office, an effort to bring Hong Kong art to an international level. This demonstrates the airline's vision extends beyond transportation, showcasing its role as a "cultural ambassador" in the skies.
Cathay Pacific's first flight to Hai Phong was by DC-3 aircraft in 1949.
Another highlight that passengers will enjoy in the 2026 event series is the appearance of the cabin crew in classic uniforms. Approximately 2,000 ground staff and flight attendants will take turns wearing uniform designs from different eras, vividly recreating the brand's history. These uniforms are not just clothing, but symbols of the dedication and professional service that have built the airline's reputation over the past 80 years. Bringing these old values into a modern context helps customers, especially the younger generation, gain a deeper understanding of the formation and development of one of the world's leading airlines.
By increasing flight frequency and continuously improving services, Cathay Pacific is creating maximum convenience for Vietnamese passengers connecting to over 100 global destinations through its Hong Kong hub. In the context of a strong recovery and fierce competition in the global aviation industry, leveraging its heritage to strengthen customer trust is a smart strategy. The landing of flight CX741 at Noi Bai today is a testament to its long-term commitment and appreciation for the loyalty of its customers and partners in Vietnam, while also opening a promising new chapter in its journey to conquer the skies in the coming decades.
