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From mattresses to dining on demand, Cathay Pacific joins airline race to up business-class perks
Strong competition and financial pressures mean carriers have to outthink and outdo each other for premium customers
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Business-class perks across some of the world’s leading airlines are set to reach new heights, as the expectations of travellers grow.
Seats that recline fully, direct aisle access, fine dining, a luxury amenity bag, and a premium selection of in-flight movies are just some of the basic amenities expected by business-class passengers.
In Hong Kong, flagship carrier Cathay Pacific Airways is responding with more immediate upgrades to sleeping facilities, meals and in-flight internet connection. This follows more costly investments by Qatar Airways, which is offering a new seat designed like a first-class suite, and Singapore Airlines, which unveiled a double-bed business-class seat.
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The targeted improvements in premium seats by Hong Kong’s flagship airline are a critical part of keeping its business-class offering competitive and profitable as well as enable it to justify higher prices.
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Strong demand in the front of the cabin in recent months signalled improved business, Cathay Pacific said. The company aims to claw back from a HK$2.05 billion loss in the first half of the year by restructuring its business and cutting jobs, among other cost-saving measures.
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