Under this HK$85.5 billion deal, the airline will buy 30 A330-900neos with the right to buy 30 more to expand at its home base of Hong Kong International Airport.
Cathay Pacific has made a key milestone for its mid-size widebody fleet renewal programme by placing a significant firm order with Airbus for 30 A330-900 widebody aircraft. under this deal, the airline will buy 30 A330-900neos with the right to buy 30 more. Each aircraft will be equipped with the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, consistent with the specifications for the A330neo series. additionally, the airline has also signed a TotalCare service agreement that will cover the fleet.
The integration of these A330-900 aircraft will facilitate the modernization of Cathay’s existing A330-300 fleet and enhance its operational capabilities on high-density regional routes. Additionally, the A330-900s will provide operational flexibility for extended-range services. Cathay Pacific aims to expand at its home base of Hong Kong International Airport, which is constructing a third runway with this multimillion order.
Ronald Lam, Chief Executive Officer, Cathay Group said, “As Cathay completes the final stretch of its rebuilding journey, we are turning the page to modernization and growth, both in terms of scope and quality. We are delighted to announce this new order for state-of-the-art A330neo aircraft. This substantial investment reflects not only our immense confidence in Hong Kong’s leading international aviation hub status, but also represents our commitment to fostering our home city’s ongoing development. The A330 is an aircraft type that has been serving Cathay Pacific well for nearly 30 years. These new aircraft will principally serve our regional destinations in Asia, while also providing the flexibility to serve longer-haul destinations as required. The improved fuel efficiency of these A330neos, together with their high standards of comfort, will enable us to further elevate the experience we provide for our customers while also contributing towards our goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
The A330-900 boasts a remarkable non-stop range of 7,200 nautical miles (13,330 kilometers) and is equipped with the acclaimed Airspace cabin, designed to deliver an exceptional passenger experience. Reflecting Airbus’s commitment to sustainability, the A330neo is capable of utilizing up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at present, with a targeted transition to 100% SAF by 2030.
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Airbus said, “This latest order from Cathay, one of the world’s most experienced A330 operators, is a major endorsement of the latest generation A330neo. It is the natural successor for existing A330 fleets, bringing the highest levels of technical and operational commonality, and significant reductions in fuel consumption and carbon emissions. In addition, the award-winning Airspace cabin provides a whole new flight experience. At Cathay, the A330neo will become the backbone of its regional widebody operations, with the versatility to operate on longer routes. Together with its A320 Family and A350 fleets, the airline will be able to take full benefit from the unique synergies of the latest generation Airbus product line.“
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Cathay Group’s latest Airbus deal, its third in 12 months, marks its largest aircraft purchase spree over a decade and increases its order backlog to over 100 jets. This order adds 30 A330-900s to its fleet, including 48 A350s and 43 older A330s. The last Boeing order from Cathay was in 2013.
