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Cathay Pacific’s new business class Aria Suites take to the skies

Cathay Pacific’s new business class Aria Suites take to the skies

It’s no secret that competing in the aviation industry is a tiring battle. From Qatar Airways – best known for its sliding-door QSuites – to Finnair’s innovative, sustainably-focused non-reclining seats, airlines are constantly looking for new ways to entice. Add to that premium champagne, caviar and chef-crafted menus, plus premium linens and ergonomic mattresses, and the question is: How do you stand out from the crowd?

Cathay Pacific introduces stylish new business class suites

(Image credit: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific)

The most recent addition to their offering is Cathay Pacific. The Hong Kong airline is investing over HK$100 billion (around £10 million) to improve customer experience and strengthen the city as an international hub. The first unveiling of its ambitious plans is a major overhaul of its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, which includes a refreshed Economy Class cabin, a new Premium Economy and – to top it all off – the highly anticipated Aria Business Class Suites.

With over 45 seats in the current Cathay Pacific 1-2-1 herringbone layout, the new offering may not seem the most revolutionary at first glance, but once established, the new look and thoughtful details represent a huge improvement , which clearly expresses that the customer comes first and feels like an extension of what Cathay is about. “The key design philosophy around the Aria Suite and throughout the aircraft is Human Centric Design,” says Vivan Lo, GM of Customer Experience & Design. “We listened to our customers and kept them in mind at every stage of the design process. Taking their needs into account was the most important touchstone in every decision.”

Top view of the Cathay Pacific Aria Suites

(Image credit: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific)

Side view of the Cathay Pacific Aria Suites

(Image credit: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific)

The cocoon-like result is thoughtful and sophisticated, featuring soft ambient lighting, suede walls, natural wool fabrics in muted tones of Cathay’s signature green, and gold accents – alongside a sliding door for added privacy. “We wanted to reimagine business class in a way that felt more personal, almost like walking into a carefully crafted space designed as an art form, where every detail exudes comfort and consideration,” says Lo.

In addition to amenities from skincare brand Bamford and ample storage space, such as a pull-out drawer on the console for valuables, other smart additions include wireless charging and a 24-inch ultra-high-definition TV screen that connects via Bluetooth with personal headphones can be coupled. All of this is further enhanced by redesigned toilets whose status you can see on your screen, free Wi-Fi, and a gallery with works by artists like Koon Wai Bong, Elaine Chiu, and Gordon Cheung, all of which have Wi-Fi, adding a connection to Hong Kong.

Cathay Pacific Aria Suites Ottoman

(Image credit: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific)

Cathay Pacific Aria Suites exhibition

(Image credit: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific)

With a plan to retrofit 30 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft approximately one per month, long-haul flights will begin in January 2025, cementing Cathay Pacific’s position in international aviation.

Flights.cathaypacific.com

Cathay Pacific Aria Suites door

(Image credit: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific)

Halo lighting at Cathay Pacific Aria Suites

Aria Suites halo lighting

(Image credit: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific)

Cathay Pacific Aria Suites tray table

(Image credit: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific)

Cathay Pacific Aria Suites seat controls

(Image credit: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific)

Lighting of the Cathay Pacific Aria Suites

(Image credit: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific)