Cathay Group reports strong H1 2025 profit and expands long-haul fleet with 14 Boeing 777-9 aircraft

The Cathay Group has reported a HK$3.7 billion profit for the first half of 2025, matching last year’s result and marking a strong performance amid a continued global travel rebound. Alongside its interim results, the Hong Kong-based aviation group announced a major fleet expansion with the purchase of 14 additional Boeing 777-9 aircraft, bringing its total order for the type to 35.

The group also confirmed a HK$0.20 interim dividend per share, its second consecutive year of dividend payouts, totalling HK$1.3 billion.

Cathay Group Chairman Patrick Healy said the latest aircraft order is part of a sweeping HK$100 billion investment plan that includes new aircraft, lounges, cabin products, and digital upgrades. “We are investing heavily to elevate the travel experience and reinforce Hong Kong’s position as a world-class international aviation hub,” Healy said.

New Routes and Industry Recognition

So far in 2025, Cathay Pacific and its low-cost subsidiary, HK Express, have launched or announced 19 new routes, expanding the group’s global reach to over 100 passenger destinations. The airline has also received widespread industry recognition, with Cathay Pacific named one of the world’s top three airlines by Skytrax, which also awarded the carrier Best Economy Class and Best Inflight Entertainment.

Meanwhile, Cathay Cargo was named Cargo Operator of the Year by Air Transport World, and HK Express was ranked among the top five low-cost airlines globally by Airline Ratings.

Solid Performance, Lower Yields

Cathay’s profit was underpinned by growing passenger volumes and increased capacity, although yields were slightly lower. Cargo continued to deliver resilient results, while lower fuel costs also supported the bottom line. Losses from associate companies narrowed to HK$181 million, down from HK$342 million a year ago.

Fleet and Cabin Overhaul

As part of its renewal plan, Cathay has orders for over 100 new aircraft across narrowbody, widebody, and freighter categories. The newly ordered Boeing 777-9s will feature a next-generation First Class product, set to debut in 2027.

The airline is also refreshing existing aircraft, with flat-bed Business Class cabins coming to its Airbus A330s in 2026 and updated regional Business Class interiors being rolled out this year.

In a major milestone, 100% of Cathay Pacific’s fleet now offers both seatback inflight entertainment and inflight Wi-Fi — a rare combination in the industry.

Lounge Upgrades and Cargo Innovation

On the ground, Cathay is redesigning key lounges. The Bridge lounge at Hong Kong International Airport reopened earlier this year, and the revamped Beijing flagship lounge is due to reopen this month. A brand-new flagship lounge in New York is slated for launch in 2026.

Cathay Cargo continues to expand its speciality services, digital solutions, and sustainability efforts, reinforcing its strategic focus on future-ready logistics.

Outlook

With a firm financial footing, expanding network, and customer experience upgrades in full swing, the Cathay Group is positioning itself for long-term growth. As global travel demand continues to strengthen, the group remains committed to playing a central role in connecting Hong Kong with the world.