Photos: Cathay Pacific Unveils Its New Aria Suite Business Class

Cathay Pacific has set the stage for a new chapter in long-haul travel with the launch of its latest business class offering, the Aria Suite.

This innovative design, which promises a private, serene flying experience, is poised to redefine comfort for both frequent flyers and leisure travelers.

The iconic Hong Kong-based airline hosted a star-studded unveiling at its hangar at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) in October. Business Traveler was honored to attend.

Unveiling Event at HKIA

The unveiling event included Cathay Pacific’s executive management, industry leaders, influencers, and the press. They gathered to witness the debut of the new business class product. Guests were first greeted at the airline’s headquarters, Cathay City, before being shuttled to the hangar, where one of the airline’s Boeing 777-300ER stood ready to reveal the Aria Suite.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

The hangar, elegantly designed with rows of real reeds symbolizing airiness, set the stage for the introduction of Cathay Pacific’s newest cabin design.

Attendees were treated to a gallery of artwork inspired by the materials and design elements featured in the new seats, while digital art screens highlighted the brand’s forward-thinking approach.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Among the notable guests was actress and frequent flyer Fala Chen, who shared her travel stories, describing Cathay Pacific as the airline that makes flying with family “easier and smoother.” This personal touch echoed the airline’s message of creating a seamless, customer-centric travel experience.

Features and Design

Cathay Pacific’s new Aria Suite, developed in collaboration with JPA Design, promises a cocoon-like experience for travelers. Each seat is a carefully crafted, wrap-around space that blends comfort, technology, and privacy.

Photo: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific

The name “Aria” itself suggests a solo performance, which Edward Bell, Cathay Pacific’s General Manager of Brand, Insights, and Marketing Communications, aptly described as “a performance just for you.”

Key features of the Aria Suite include a larger 4K screen, a wireless charging port, customizable lighting, and multiple storage options. The sturdy sliding doors provide a sense of personal space, turning each seat into a private hideaway.

Photo: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific

Additionally, the inclusion of Bamford wellness products in newly designed amenity kits adds a touch of luxury, ensuring passengers are pampered throughout their journey.

The design goes beyond the seat itself. Bulkheads and galleys have been updated with dark wooden panels and digital controls, while the cabin’s color scheme remains true to Cathay Pacific’s iconic teal, mixed with shades of green and gray.

Photo: Courtesy of Cathay Pacific

Walking through the aisles evokes a sense of the glamor and high society of 1930s Shanghai, where East meets West in a refined, elegant fusion.

Retrofitting Plan

The airline plans to retrofit 30 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft with the new suites at a rate of one jet per month, with the first long-haul flights to Europe scheduled for early 2025.

Currently, a few retrofitted Boeing aircraft are already operating on intra-Asian routes as part of crew familiarization.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Vivien Lo, Cathay Pacific’s General Manager of Customer Experience and Design, said, “Everything we do is centered around the customer experience,” she said, highlighting how the new suites aim to provide a tranquil, luxurious environment that meets the evolving needs of passengers.

In addition to the Aria Suite, Cathay Pacific has big plans for its first class product. Mrs. Lo hinted at a new First Class concept set to debut on the upcoming Boeing 777X aircraft. When asked how this new offering would compare to the Aria Suite, her response was simple yet definitive: “First is first.”

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

As the airline prepares to roll out these suites across its Boeing 777-300ER fleet, U.S. travelers can look forward to heightened comfort and service on their long-haul journeys from Cathay Pacific’s five U.S. gateways.