Cathay Pacific to Buy 30 Airbus A330-900 Aircraft with Options for 30 More

Cathay Pacific will purchase 30 Airbus A330-900 wide-body aircraft, with options for an additional 30. Deliveries are set to begin in 2028 and finish by 2031. This acquisition is part of Cathay’s HK$100 billion ($12.83 billion) seven-year investment plan, including fleet upgrades, cabin products, lounges, and sustainability projects.

The new planes will replace existing aircraft and serve regional routes within Asia, with potential for long-haul use. Rolls-Royce will supply 60 Trent 7000 engines for the 30 jets.

Cathay operates a mixed fleet of Boeing and Airbus aircraft, with around 100 planes on order and rights to acquire another 80. The new third runway at Hong Kong’s airport is expected to be fully operational by the end of this year. Airbus states the A330-900 jets can seat up to 460 people and reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by 25%.

Myles Corey, founder of Spaero, commented: “Cathay Pacific’s strategic investment in the A330-900 fleet underscores the industry’s shift towards more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft. This move not only enhances operational efficiency but also aligns with global sustainability goals, setting a benchmark for future fleet modernizations.”