Summary
1. Service Resumption Overview
Cathay Pacific will fly from Chicago O’Hare to Hong Kong three times a week. After more than three years, Hong Kong’s flag carrier is resuming regular service to a major U.S. hub – Chicago O’Hare International (ORD). This marks a significant milestone for the airline, as the entire region suffered due to strict lockdowns enforced during the pandemic. The last regularly scheduled flights operated between Hong Kong and Chicago back in March 2020.
2. Flight Details
Starting on Oct. 3, Cathay Pacific will operate three weekly flights between Hong Kong and Chicago on modern Airbus A350-1000 jets. The 7,793-mile route has a scheduled flight time of just under 16 hours, with departures from Chicago on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Passengers can expect a comfortable travel experience aboard the A350-1000, which boasts a total capacity of 334 passengers:
- 46 in lie-flat business class (1-2-1 arrangement)
- 32 in premium economy (2-4-2 arrangement)
- 256 in economy (3-3-3 arrangement)
3. On-board Experience
Cathay Pacific’s Airbus A350-1000 features the airline’s latest inflight entertainment system along with Wi-Fi connectivity. However, it is important to note that there is no first-class cabin available on the Airbus A350, unlike Cathay’s Boeing 777-300ER. Chris van den Hooven, Senior Vice President of Americas at Cathay Pacific, explained that the A350s are about 25% more efficient in fuel burn than the 777s, making them a quieter and more environmentally friendly choice.
In business class, travelers can enjoy premium amenities, including 400-thread-count Bamford bed linen and luxurious skincare products. Moreover, in 2023, plant-based eaters will be pleased to find a new in-flight menu, crafted in collaboration with the renowned Hong Kong restaurant, VEDA by Ovolo. Long-haul flights departing from Hong Kong also feature enticing meals from Michelin-starred Duddell’s.
4. Future Plans for Cathay Pacific
As of now, Cathay Pacific also serves four other U.S. destinations from its Hong Kong hub: New York, Boston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. In the past, the airline provided service to additional U.S. cities, including Newark, NJ, and Seattle. Looking forward to 2024, Cathay Pacific is set to unveil a brand-new business class seat, known as the “Aria Suite,” across its fleet of Boeing 777-300ERs, enhancing the travel experience for all passengers.
