From the First Aircraft to a Global Network
The Cathay story began in 1946, when former wartime pilots Roy Farrell and Sydney de Kantzow founded the airline in Hong Kong. With a single Douglas DC-3 aircraft, “Betsy”, they set out to move essential goods across post-war Asia.
From that pioneering first flight, Cathay continued to move forward and bought its first Convair 880 in 1962. The arrival of jet aircraft accelerated its growth and facilitated the expansion of the network to new destinations.
Today, Cathay connects customers to more than 100 destinations worldwide, linking major business and leisure centres across the Chinese Mainland, Asia, Europe, North America, the Middle East, Southwest Pacific and beyond.
Growing Together with Hong Kong
Cathay’s story is deeply connected with Hong Kong’s own journey on the world stage.
For eight decades, Cathay has grown alongside its home city, from Kai Tak Airport to today’s Hong Kong International Airport. Cathay operated the very first commercial landing and that of the longest direct commercial flight at the time at Chek Lap Kok Airport, opening the doors to a new era of global connectivity.
Keep Moving Beyond
As Hong Kong’s home carrier, Cathay continues to move beyond aviation by using its global platform to share the city’s creativity, culture and spirit with the world.
This is brought to life through Cathay’s partnership with the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, which has helped transform one of its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft into a flying canvas. Featuring an interpretation of Paramita 04 by Hong Kong multimedia artist Victor Wong, the “Spirit of Hong Kong – 80th Anniversary Edition” livery brings together art, technology and Cathay’s identity to celebrate an evolving Hong Kong.
Elevating the Travel Experience
Throughout its history, Cathay has continued to elevate the travel experience with care, innovation and attention to detail.
Cathay unveiled Aria Suite its new Business class cabin, alongside refreshed Premium Economy and Economy on the thoughtfully designed Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, bringing passengers next-level comfort and privacy in the skies.
As Cathay celebrates 80 years together, it continues to look ahead with the same spirit that has shaped its journey from Hong Kong to the world — moving people forward through meaningful connections, thoughtful service and experiences that inspire every journey.