Cathay Pacific Airways has refused to dismiss the possibility that it will take a stake in China Eastern Airlines as the Shanghai-based carrier prepares to float on the New York and Hong Kong stock exchanges in coming months.
Cathay spokesman Kwan Chuk-fai, however, said this week no discussions had been held with the Chinese carrier about Cathay taking a stake.
'We can't rule out that we might be interested in China Eastern,' Mr Kwan said.
He said it was not possible to say with any certainty whether Cathay would be interested in taking a stake in China Eastern before full listing details were disclosed.
Industry sources suggested Cathay was likely to be keen to ascertain pricing of the float and the percentage of China Eastern that foreign airlines would be allowed to take.
China Eastern moved a step closer to its long-awaited dual float after the territory stock exchange ratified its application in mid-December.
