Cathay Pacific has placed an order for 30 Airbus A330neo to modernize its A330-300 fleet and expand its operations on high-capacity regional routes. The A330neo offers flexibility for longer-range destinations and is equipped with the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines.
Ronald Lam, CEO of the Cathay Group, stated: “As Cathay completes the final stage of its rebuilding process, we are moving towards modernization and growth, both in terms of reach and quality. We are pleased to announce this new order of next-generation A330neo aircraft. This substantial investment reflects not only our immense confidence in Hong Kong’s status as a leading international aviation hub but also represents our commitment to the continued development of our home city.”
Lam added: “The A330 has been serving Cathay Pacific well for nearly 30 years. These new aircraft will primarily serve our regional destinations in Asia, while also providing the flexibility to service long-haul destinations as needed. The enhanced fuel efficiency of these A330neo, along with their high standards of comfort, will allow us to elevate further the experience we offer to our customers while contributing to our goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
Cathay Pacific, a Key Airbus Customer in the Region
Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft, commented: “This latest order from Cathay, one of the world’s most experienced A330 operators, is a strong endorsement of the latest generation of the A330neo. It is the natural successor to existing A330 fleets, offering the highest levels of technical and operational commonality, and significant reductions in fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Additionally, the Airspace cabin provides an entirely new flight experience.”
The A330-900 can fly 7,200 nm (13,330 km) non-stop and can operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), aiming to increase the percentage to 100% by 2030.
Cathay Pacific operates a fleet of 48 Airbus A350s across the -900 and -1000 variants, and 43 Airbus A330ceos. The last time Boeing received an order from Cathay Pacific was in 2013 when it secured a memorandum for the purchase of 21 Boeing 777-9s.
