Cathay Group reports strong April demand despite fuel cost pressure

The Cathay Group reported strong passenger and cargo performance in April 2026, although persistently high jet fuel prices linked to tensions in the Middle East continued to weigh on costs.

Passenger demand remained robust across the group, supported by Easter travel, the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, and pre-“Golden Week” traffic. Cathay Pacific carried 17% more passengers year-on-year in April, while HK Express transported nearly 730,000 passengers, up 5%. Both airlines also recorded healthy load factors and continued growth in premium travel demand.

Cargo operations also performed well, with Cathay Cargo increasing volumes by 8% year-on-year. Strong demand from the Americas, Europe and Southeast Asia offset weaker flows to South Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Technology, semiconductor and pharmaceutical shipments were key growth drivers.

Due to softer demand to the Middle East, Cathay Pacific extended the suspension of flights to Dubai and Riyadh until the end of August, reallocating capacity to stronger-performing routes such as Manchester and Rome. Despite these adjustments, the group said it remains on track to achieve around 10% passenger capacity growth in 2026.

Looking ahead, Cathay expects travel demand to remain resilient through the summer peak season, although customers are increasingly booking closer to departure dates amid broader market uncertainty.