About Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific is a leading full-service airline based in Hong Kong, operating under the IATA code CX and ICAO code CPA. Founded in 1946, the airline has grown from a small regional operator into one of the most recognised premium carriers in Asia, serving more than 70 destinations across Asia, Europe, the Americas, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa. Cathay Pacific is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, connecting passengers to an extensive global network of partner airlines spanning more than 170 countries.
Headquartered at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), Cathay Pacific is part of the Cathay Pacific Airways Group, which also includes Cathay Cargo and HK Express. The airline is well known for its commitment to service excellence, consistently earning accolades from Skytrax and other international aviation bodies. Cathay Pacific offers four cabin classes — First, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy — with complimentary meals, drinks, entertainment, and generous baggage allowances across all classes. For Singapore travellers, Cathay Pacific's Hong Kong hub is a well-connected gateway to destinations across East Asia, Japan, Korea, mainland China, Australia, and beyond.
Airline Overview and History
Cathay Pacific has a rich history spanning nearly eight decades, evolving from a small charter operator into a world-class international airline. Key milestones include:
- 1946 — Founded by Roy Farrell and Sydney de Kantzow in Hong Kong, initially operating charter services with Douglas DC-3 aircraft.
- 1948 — Butterfield & Swire (now the Swire Group) acquires a majority stake, beginning a long-term partnership that continues today.
- 1959 — Introduces its first jet aircraft, the Convair 880, modernising its fleet.
- 1979 — Launches Boeing 747 services, significantly expanding long-haul flight capacity.
- 1986 — Privatised and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
- 1998 — Relocates to the new Hong Kong International Airport at Chek Lap Kok.
- 1999 — Becomes a founding member of the oneworld alliance alongside American Airlines, British Airways, Qantas, and Canadian Airlines.
- 2014 — Receives its first Airbus A350-900, marking the start of a major fleet renewal.
- 2018 — Completes the acquisition of Hong Kong Express (HK Express), adding a low-cost subsidiary.
- 2020 — Undergoes major restructuring following the global pandemic, retiring its Boeing 747-400 fleet.
- 2022 — Combines its Asia Miles and Marco Polo Club programmes into a single unified loyalty programme, simply called "Cathay", with Asia Miles remaining the currency members earn and redeem.
- 2023 — Resumes full network operations and reports a strong recovery in passenger numbers.
- 2024–2026 — Continues fleet modernisation with orders for the Boeing 777-9 and ongoing deliveries of Airbus A350 aircraft.
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) serves as Cathay Pacific's sole hub, strategically located in the heart of Asia. From HKG, the airline operates flights to major cities across six continents, making it one of the best-connected hubs in the Asia-Pacific region. The airline's mission is to move people forward through exceptional travel experiences, underpinned by core values of safety, service, and sustainability.
Fleet and Aircraft
Cathay Pacific operates a modern wide-body fleet optimised for medium and long-haul international routes. The airline has invested heavily in fleet renewal, retiring older aircraft types in favour of newer, more fuel-efficient models. The current fleet, numbering roughly 150 aircraft, includes:
- Airbus A350-900 — The backbone of the fleet, used on medium and long-haul routes across Asia, Europe, and Oceania, fitted with the airline's latest cabin products across all four classes.
- Airbus A350-1000 — An extended variant deployed on high-demand long-haul routes, offering greater passenger capacity and enhanced cabin layouts.
- Airbus A330-300 — The mainstay of the regional and medium-haul network, connecting Hong Kong to destinations across Asia and the Middle East.
- Boeing 777-300ER — The flagship long-haul aircraft operating premium routes to London, New York, Los Angeles, Sydney, and other major world cities.
- Boeing 777-9 (on order) — A next-generation wide-body aircraft that will gradually replace older Boeing 777 models, offering improved fuel efficiency, longer range, and a new passenger experience.
The airline maintains its fleet to the highest safety and engineering standards, with comprehensive maintenance facilities at Hong Kong International Airport. Cathay Pacific's engineering divisions, including Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company (HAECO), provide world-class maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities recognised across the global aviation industry.
Top Flight Routes
Cathay Pacific operates an extensive international network from its Hong Kong International Airport hub. For Singapore travellers, the airline offers convenient connections through its HKG hub to a global network. Popular routes include:
- Singapore to Hong Kong — Cathay Pacific's key route from Singapore, connecting Changi Airport to the carrier's HKG hub in around four hours.
- Singapore to London — Connecting via Hong Kong to London Heathrow, one of Cathay Pacific's busiest long-haul routes.
- Singapore to Osaka — Travelling via Hong Kong into Japan's vibrant Kansai region.
- Singapore to Seoul — Connecting via HKG to South Korea's capital.
- Singapore to Taipei — A convenient one-stop service to Taiwan via Hong Kong.
- Singapore to Sydney — Connecting via HKG to Australia's largest city.
- Singapore to Melbourne — A premium one-stop service to Melbourne via Hong Kong.
- Singapore to Shanghai — Connecting into mainland China via the airline's HKG hub.
Cathay Pacific's Hong Kong hub is ideally positioned to connect Singapore travellers to destinations across East Asia, Japan, South Korea, Greater China, Australia, North America, and Europe. The airline's codeshare agreements within the oneworld alliance — including partnerships with Japan Airlines, Qantas, and British Airways — further expand the range of destinations accessible from Singapore. Check Traveloka for the latest Cathay Pacific availability, real-time pricing, and schedules for all routes from Singapore.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Cathay Pacific provides generous baggage allowances as part of its full-service offering. Allowances vary by cabin class, fare type, and Asia Miles membership tier. Here is a summary of the standard baggage policy.
Cabin Baggage
- Economy and Premium Economy: 1 cabin bag, maximum 7 kg, dimensions not exceeding 56 x 36 x 23 cm.
- Business Class: 2 cabin bags, each up to 7 kg, same dimensions.
- First Class: 2 cabin bags, each up to 7 kg, same dimensions.
- Additional item: All passengers may carry one small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or document case.
Checked Baggage
- Economy Class: 1 piece up to 23 kg (Light fares) or 25-30 kg depending on fare type and route.
- Premium Economy: 1 piece up to 25-30 kg depending on fare type.
- Business Class: 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg (around 40 kg total).
- First Class: 3 pieces, each up to 32 kg (around 40 kg total).
- Maximum weight per piece: 32 kg — bags exceeding this limit must be split or shipped as cargo.
Asia Miles members enjoy additional baggage benefits based on their membership tier. Green members receive the standard allowance, Silver members get an extra 10 kg or 1 additional piece, Gold members receive an extra 15 kg or 1 additional piece, and Diamond members receive the highest additional allowance.
Excess Baggage Fees
Excess baggage fees are charged per kilogram or per piece depending on the route. Purchasing extra baggage online through Cathay Pacific's Manage Booking portal before departure is typically 20-30% cheaper than paying at the airport counter. Fees vary by route and season, so check the airline's official baggage page or Traveloka for current rates.
Restricted and Prohibited Items
Cathay Pacific follows international aviation security standards. Key restrictions include:
- Sharp objects, flammable substances, explosives, and dangerous goods are prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage.
- Lithium batteries, power banks, and e-cigarettes must be carried in cabin baggage only.
- Sports equipment, musical instruments, and oversized items may incur additional handling fees — contact the airline in advance.
Check-in Guide
Online Check-in
Cathay Pacific offers online check-in through its website and mobile app, opening 48 hours before departure and closing 90 minutes before departure. After checking in online, passengers can:
- Select or change their seat.
- Download a mobile boarding pass.
- Head directly to the baggage drop counter at the airport if carrying checked baggage.
- Proceed directly to security screening and the departure gate if travelling with cabin baggage only.
Airport Counter Check-in
Airport counter check-in is available at all departure airports served by Cathay Pacific. Recommended arrival times are as follows:
- All flights: At least 3 hours before departure for international flights.
- Check-in counter closing time: Typically 60 minutes before departure.
At Singapore Changi Airport, passengers should allow sufficient time, particularly during peak travel periods including school holidays, festive seasons, and long weekends.
Self-Service Kiosks
At Hong Kong International Airport and select major airports, Cathay Pacific provides self-service check-in kiosks where passengers can print boarding passes and baggage tags, significantly reducing wait times during busy periods.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
First Class
Cathay Pacific First Class is available on select Boeing 777-300ER routes and offers the airline's highest tier of luxury travel. Features include:
- Private suites with closing doors for complete privacy.
- Fully flat-bed seats that convert into spacious beds with premium bedding.
- Personalised dining with multi-course menus curated by renowned chefs.
- Exclusive amenity kits, premium wine, and Champagne service.
- Priority check-in and access to The Wing and The Pier First Class lounges in Hong Kong.
Business Class
Business Class on Cathay Pacific features award-winning reverse herringbone seats and the Aria Suite (on the latest A350-1000 aircraft), offering:
- Fully flat-bed seats with direct aisle access in a 1-2-1 configuration.
- Premium multi-course restaurant-style dining and an extensive wine list.
- Noise-cancelling headphones and premium amenity kits.
- Access to Cathay Pacific Business Class lounges worldwide, including The Pier and The Bridge in Hong Kong.
Premium Economy
Premium Economy offers an enhanced travel experience between Economy and Business, featuring:
- Wider seats with greater recline, more legroom, and a footrest.
- Enhanced meal service with a wider menu selection and complimentary alcoholic beverages.
- Priority check-in and boarding.
- A larger baggage allowance compared to Economy.
Economy Class
Economy Class provides a comfortable experience for all passengers, with:
- Ergonomic seats with adjustable headrests and standard pitch.
- Complimentary meals and drinks, including alcoholic beverages on international flights.
- Blankets, pillows, and a personal reading light.
- USB ports and power outlets at most seats on the majority of aircraft.
StudioCX — In-Flight Entertainment
All cabin classes have access to StudioCX, Cathay Pacific's in-flight entertainment system, featuring:
- High-definition seatback screens (up to 18 inches in First Class).
- Hundreds of movies, TV shows, music albums, podcasts, and games.
- Multi-language options including English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Malay.
- Wi-Fi connectivity available for purchase on most aircraft, with complimentary access for First and Business Class passengers on select routes.
Complimentary Food and Beverages
Cathay Pacific provides complimentary meals and drinks across all cabin classes on international flights. The airline offers a selection of Asian and Western cuisine, with special meal options available for passengers with specific dietary needs — including halal, vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free, and child-friendly meals. Special meals should be pre-ordered at least 24 hours before departure through the airline's Manage Booking portal or by contacting Traveloka customer service.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Travelling with Children and Infants
- Children (2-11 years): Require their own seat and ticket. Child fares are available on most routes.
- Infants (under 2 years): May travel on the lap of an accompanying adult with a discounted infant fare. Bassinets are available on request for long-haul flights, subject to availability and seat location.
- Required documents: A valid passport is required for all child and infant passengers travelling internationally.
- Strollers and car seats can be checked at the boarding gate free of charge.
Pregnant Passengers
- Passengers up to 28 weeks of pregnancy may fly without restriction.
- Passengers between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy must carry a medical certificate dated within 10 days of travel confirming fitness to fly.
- Passengers beyond 36 weeks of pregnancy (or 32 weeks for twin pregnancies) are not accepted for travel.
Passengers Requiring Special Assistance
Cathay Pacific is committed to providing accessible travel for all passengers. Available services include:
- Wheelchair assistance (WCHR, WCHS, WCHC) from check-in through to boarding and arrival.
- Meet-and-assist services at Hong Kong International Airport and other major airports.
- Transport of mobility aids including wheelchairs, walking frames, and portable oxygen concentrators.
- Special seating arrangements for passengers with visual or hearing impairments.
- Trained cabin crew experienced in assisting passengers with diverse needs.
Passengers requiring special assistance should notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure via the Cathay Pacific website, the Manage Booking portal, or by contacting Traveloka customer service.
Unaccompanied Minors
- Children aged 6-11: Eligible for the unaccompanied minor service on non-stop Cathay Pacific flights.
- Children aged 12-17: May travel alone but can opt for the unaccompanied minor service for additional supervision.
- The service includes supervision from the departure gate to arrival, dedicated attention from cabin crew during the flight, and hand-off to a designated guardian at the destination.
Parents or guardians must complete the required documentation and ensure a responsible adult is present at both the departure and arrival airports. Contact Cathay Pacific directly to arrange this service.
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
Flight Rescheduling
To reschedule a Cathay Pacific flight booked through Traveloka:
- Open the Traveloka app or website and navigate to My Bookings.
- Select the Cathay Pacific booking you wish to change.
- Choose the reschedule option and select a new flight.
- Pay any applicable fare difference and change fee.
Flexible and fully flexible fare types typically allow rescheduling with reduced or waived change fees. Light and standard Economy fares may incur a change fee plus fare difference. Business and First Class tickets generally offer the most flexible change policies.
Cancellation and Refunds
Refund eligibility depends on your fare type:
- Fully refundable fares (Business Flex, First): Full refund to the original payment method.
- Partially refundable fares (Standard Economy, Premium Economy): Refund less applicable cancellation charges.
- Non-refundable fares (Light Economy): Generally non-refundable, although airport taxes and fuel surcharges may be refundable. Some fare types offer travel credit for future bookings.
To request a cancellation or refund, visit your booking details on Traveloka and follow the guided cancellation process. Refund processing typically takes 7 to 30 working days depending on the payment method used.
Why Book Cathay Pacific Flights on Traveloka
Booking Cathay Pacific flights through Traveloka offers several advantages for Singapore travellers:
- Competitive pricing — Access exclusive deals and promotional fares on Cathay Pacific flights from Singapore to Hong Kong and beyond.
- Easy comparison — Compare Cathay Pacific fares against other airlines, sorting by price, departure time, flight duration, and number of stops.
- Flexible payment — Pay with credit and debit cards, PayNow, GrabPay, or convenient instalment plans.
- Instant e-ticket — Receive your booking confirmation and Cathay Pacific e-ticket directly via email and the Traveloka app.
- 24/7 customer support — Traveloka's multilingual customer support team is available around the clock for booking issues, changes, or travel questions.
- Loyalty rewards — Earn Traveloka Points, access exclusive member offers, and enjoy cashback on selected bookings.
- Complete travel solutions — Book flights, hotels, airport transfers, and travel insurance all on one platform for a seamless trip-planning experience.
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka
Use these strategies to secure the best fares on Cathay Pacific flights from Singapore:
- Book early — Cathay Pacific fares are generally lowest when booked several weeks to months in advance, particularly for long-haul routes to London, Sydney, or Tokyo.
- Be flexible with dates — Use Traveloka's fare calendar to compare prices across different days and find the most affordable travel dates.
- Fly on weekdays — Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday departures typically offer lower fares than weekend flights.
- Set a Price Alert — Activate Traveloka's Price Alert feature to receive instant notifications when fares drop on your preferred Cathay Pacific route.
- Check promotions — Visit Traveloka's promo page regularly for flash sales, seasonal offers, and exclusive Cathay Pacific promo codes.
- Travel outside peak season — Avoid peak travel periods such as year-end school holidays and major festive seasons for significantly lower fares.
- Bundle your trip — Combine Cathay Pacific flights with hotel bookings on Traveloka for additional bundle discounts.
- Choose a Light fare — If travelling with minimal baggage, select the Light Economy fare for the lowest base price.
- Consider connecting flights — One-stop flights via Hong Kong to destinations in Japan, Korea, Australia, or Europe can sometimes be more affordable than direct flights.
How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Follow these simple steps to book your Cathay Pacific flight on Traveloka:
- Visit traveloka.com or open the Traveloka app and navigate to the Flights section.
- Enter your departure city (for example, Singapore) and destination (for example, Hong Kong), select your travel dates, number of passengers, and preferred cabin class.
- Tap the search button to view all available Cathay Pacific flights for your route.
- Sort results by price, departure time, duration, or number of stops and select your preferred flight.
- Enter passenger details for each traveller — full name (as per passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, and contact information.
- Add optional extras such as additional baggage, seat selection, special meal requests, or travel insurance.
- Review your complete booking summary including base fare, taxes, surcharges, and any add-ons.
- Select your preferred payment method — credit card, debit card, PayNow, GrabPay, or instalment plan — and complete the transaction.
- Receive your e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app, ready for your Cathay Pacific journey.
Save your e-ticket on your phone or print a copy for reference at the airport, and you are ready to fly with Cathay Pacific to Hong Kong and beyond.