Wondering what the difference is between Cathay Pacific Premium Economy and Business Class? We compare the two and show you what it is like to fly both so you can make an informed choice.
2. The Journey Experience
While flying from Toronto to Hong Kong, we had the opportunity to fly Cathay Pacific premium economy one way and business class the other.
3. Premium Economy vs Business Class
We love visiting different countries, however, we admit that flying can be a less enjoyable experience. While technology isn’t quite at the point of beaming passengers up, there are certainly ways to enhance airline travel.
Whenever we fly long distances, we strive to utilize points to upgrade to business class. While this isn’t always feasible, Cathay Pacific’s premium economy is a commendable alternative. Therefore, we conducted a comparison to assist you in determining if the additional investment in business class is worthwhile.
Comparison Overview: Cathay Pacific Premium Economy and Business Class
Dave and I have flown various airlines, and from our experience, premium economy often proves to be a valuable upgrade. Sometimes the price difference is minimal compared to an economy ticket, with premium economy tickets occasionally available for as low as $200 for an upgrade.
Premium Economy offers many of the benefits associated with business class at a significantly lower price point.
Details on Cathay Pacific Business Class
Before diving into the perks of Cathay Pacific’s Premium Economy, let’s explore the advantages of flying business class. For those who have not previously experienced business class, you’re in for a remarkable experience that may alter your perception of flying in coach forever.
Perks of Cathay Pacific Business Class
On a flight from Toronto to Hong Kong, opting for business class significantly enhances the travel experience. A restful night’s sleep before arriving at your destination leaves you feeling refreshed and ready for sightseeing.
Why Sleep is Better in Business Class
Business class features state-of-the-art seating pods that enable passengers to stretch out and recline fully. Throughout your flight, you are enveloped in a tranquil and private space. The seats convert into a bed that allows for a restful journey.
Flight attendants greet you by name, presenting options of champagne, orange juice, or sparkling/still water. An amenity kit is placed upon your seat, complete with an eye mask, toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, and moisturizer. Notably, the onboard cuisine rivals that of fine dining establishments, complete with exceptional wine pairings.
Cathay Pacific provides the most comfortable socks of any airline we’ve encountered, featuring non-slip soles that allow for easy movement throughout the cabin.
Business Class Menu: An Exquisite Experience
Most travelers are not excited about inflight meals; however, business class passengers often look forward to exploring the provided menu.
At the flight’s commencement, you receive a menu that outlines the meal options, enabling you to make your selection promptly. Our recent flight featured a delectable blend of bread served with your choice of fish or beef, accompanied by seasonal berries and a delightful assortment of Prince Edward Island cheeses for dessert.
For those preferring lighter fare, options like soup and salad with grilled chicken or eggplant can be served at your convenience.
Business Class Dining: No Hunger Here
Snacks are always available at the service station, ensuring you never feel peckish during your flight.
One unique offering from Cathay Pacific is their enticing noodle soup, served throughout the flight, enhancing the anticipation of enjoying meals once you arrive in Hong Kong or elsewhere in Asia.
As you near the end of the flight, the smell of fresh bread wafts through the cabin, signaling breakfast. The meal begins with fruit, yogurt, and cereal, followed by a choice of dishes featuring eggs, noodles, or congee. Passionately, I often opt for a mix of fruit and yogurt, indulging in healthy options while skipping the main course.
Expedited Disembarkation
Upon landing in Hong Kong, I had already prepared myself in the business class lavatory, comfortably stowing all my essentials back in my carry-on.
The extra space in business class allows ample time to organize and ready yourself for the thrilling adventure that lies ahead.
Note: Even while flying coach, we prioritize being at the front of the plane to expedite the immigration process, which can otherwise be quite lengthy.
Exploring Cathay Pacific Premium Economy
What Are the Benefits of Flying Premium Economy? Cathay Pacific’s premium economy is competitively priced and offers various advantages.
On our return from Hong Kong, we flew Cathay Pacific premium economy and were pleasantly surprised by the experience.
While not all premium economy experiences are equal—comparing Air Canada to Dubai and Air New Zealand to Australia both had superior seating layouts with a 2-3-2 arrangement.
The Cathay Pacific premium economy class featured a 2-4-2 configuration, which, while less ideal, still felt spacious.
Indeed, in analyzing the seating arrangements on Air Canada’s premium economy to Hong Kong, it appeared they also utilize a 2-4-2 layout, which may be standard for routes to Asia.
Our seats provided more space than anticipated and reclined further than in other premium economy sections. We both enjoyed restful sleep during our journey.
While Air New Zealand features visually appealing premium economy pod seats, the recline in Cathay Pacific’s premium economy was a significant advantage.
Entertainment Systems in Cathay Pacific
The entertainment systems in both premium economy and business class share similarities.
While business class screens are slightly larger, the premium economy displays provide a fantastic entertainment experience with the same channels and choices available, including the latest blockbuster movies, beloved classics, TV shows, and games to pass the time.
Premium Economy Dining Experience
Traveling in premium economy grants you most of the benefits associated with business class.
Upon boarding, passengers are again offered a choice of champagne or orange juice, along with a care package that includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, eye mask, lip balm, and—my favorite—socks.
Similar to business class, premium economy passengers are provided with a menu showcasing available meal options.
“I’ve never understood why upper-class passengers receive silverware while economy passengers are relegated to plastic. This practice is not only detrimental to the environment but also questionable in terms of safety.”
Flying premium economy closely resembles the business class experience, featuring cozy blankets, full-size pillows, an excellent menu, and attentive service.
However, one downside was the lack of a private restroom; we had to walk to the back of the plane for the lavatory.
I have experienced other premium economy flights where a designated restroom was available, which significantly enhanced the experience. On one occasion, I even attempted to use the business class restroom but was discreetly cautioned afterward.
Is Cathay Pacific Premium Economy Worth the Investment?
Evaluating price, Cathay Pacific’s Premium Economy represents a commendable option compared to Business Class.
Access to Airport Lounges with Business Class
Access to airport lounges is an essential benefit for us when traveling. Business class passengers automatically qualify for Cathay Pacific Business Class lounges. Additionally, members of One World Rewards can enjoy lounge access at the Silver level and above, while Marco Polo Club members also benefit.
As previously mentioned, we carry a Priority Pass card that grants us access to numerous lounges globally, proving advantageous when flying economy or premium economy.
The Cabin Lounge at Hong Kong Airport
We often relax in The Cabin at Hong Kong Airport, the flagship lounge of Cathay Pacific. Several lounges are situated near different gates, eliminating excessive travel across the airport.
On occasion, we’ve thoroughly enjoyed lounge amenities, only to rush towards our flight at the last minute due to poor gate proximity.
Cathay Pacific strategically places lounges near departure gates, emphasizing their commitment to “life well-traveled” in creating serene atmospheres with modern aesthetics.
Lounges offer an array of food and drink, free internet access, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Moreover, Cathay Pacific lounges are known for their signature noodle soup bar, a highlight for many travelers who share my passion for noodle soup.
Flying business class makes lounge access a must.
No Lounge Access with Premium Economy
If you’re flying premium economy, consider obtaining a Priority Pass card to enjoy lounge benefits during your airport experience. It’s a valuable asset that enhances your travel experience, especially during layovers in transit.
We’ve utilized our Priority Pass for showers and naps during connections, which transforms comfort upon reaching our final destination.
Cost Comparison: Premium Economy vs Business Class
I researched flights to Hong Kong from Toronto, discovering the following breakdown:
- A round-trip economy ticket from Toronto to Hong Kong costs approximately $2500 if your dates are flexible.
- An upgrade to Cathay Pacific Premium Economy adds approximately $1200, while business class upgrade costs around an additional $4000.
That presents a significant price gap between premium economy and business class.
Given the pricing, I would advocate for Premium Economy over Business Class. If you plan wisely, opt for window seats for the extra value.
While additional funds do yield an array of extra perks, spaciousness, and superior service, business class certainly raises the bar.
If budget permitted, I would opt for business class every time. Hence, if you have the financial means, business class is undeniably the superior choice, particularly due to the flat beds offered.
A visit to Hong Kong is quite an appealing prospect for many travelers, and arriving well-rested enhances your experience. Both premium economy and, especially, business class facilitate quality rest during travel, streamlining your initial days upon arrival.
In conclusion, while business class remains the best option, premium economy serves as a remarkable alternative for those with limited funds. You’ll still enjoy special treatment and a comfortable journey without excessive costs.
Concluding Insights
This leads us to the recommendation that for travelers seeking added perks and a premium experience without prohibitive costs, Cathay Pacific Premium Economy is an advantageous choice.
While this provides a snapshot of potential prices, savvy and adaptable travelers will discover even better deals by researching various flight dates and booking in advance.
Ultimately, this comparison among the classes—Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class—enables you to make an informed decision on your flight preferences.
Enjoy our video showcasing our Business Class Flight: Watch it here from Beginning to End
Have you traveled premium economy overseas? How was your experience?
Cathay Pacific operates 10 direct flights weekly from Toronto to Hong Kong and 14 from Vancouver to Hong Kong.
The central hub of Hong Kong connects to over 40 destinations in Asia and more than 22 cities in Mainland China. Explore all their routes here.
