By South China Morning Post | Created at 2024-11-24 07:39:54 | Updated at 2024-11-24 10:53:37
3 hours ago
Competition among airlines for high-end customers is heating up in the region as Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific joins the fray, with analysts warning that patrons could face rising airfares despite the tussle for market share.
Cathay last month rolled out a new business class cabin, called Aria Suite, together with its premium economy seats on board its retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
It also announced a new first-class cabin featured in the carrier’s 777-9s, as well as a flat-bed business-class offering on its Airbus A330 aircraft in 2026.
Aria-equipped 777s have a total of 361 seats, including 45 seats in business class where passengers can enjoy features such as a sliding privacy door, wireless charging and a 24-inch 4K screen with Bluetooth audio pairing.
Rival Singapore Airlines earlier announced a S$1.1 billion (US$817 million) investment to retrofit its 41 Airbus A350-900 long-haul aircraft with refreshed business class cabins and premium economy seats available from 2026.
As part of its multi-year plan, the carrier will launch its luxury first-class cabins on its seven A350-900ULR aircraft, featuring four exclusive first-class suites, including amenities such as electric window blinds.
