HONG KONG — Cathay Pacific is reinforcing its commitment to the Canadian market, unveiling expanded flight schedules and enhanced passenger services that underscore its role as a trusted partner for travel professionals.
For the Northern Summer 2025 season (March 31 – Sept. 15), Cathay Pacific will operate up to 18 weekly flights from Toronto and up to 17 from Vancouver.
This expanded schedule is part of a broader plan to serve over 100 global destinations by mid-2025, including new routes to Urumqi, Hyderabad, Dallas, Rome, Munich and Brussels.
“A MARVEL OF ENGINEERING”
Travelweek had the opportunity to experience Cathay Pacific’s sublime Business Class, from the inflight service to the lounges and more, on a recent trip to Hong Kong, hosted by the airline and Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
Upon boarding, the experience began with a warm welcome: a refreshing glass of champagne and a hot towel were promptly offered, setting a tone of immediate relaxation and luxury.
One of the first things Business Class passengers will notice is the sheer amount of space. There was ample storage for carry-ons, backpack, and personal effects, keeping everything neatly tucked away yet easily accessible.
Crucially, the working space was expansive enough for a laptop and other gadgets, allowing for productivity without feeling cramped. Power outlets and USB ports were strategically placed, ensuring all devices stayed charged and ready for action.
The seat itself was a marvel of engineering. It reclined smoothly to virtually any angle, so there’s no problem finding that perfect lounging position for reading, watching movies, or simply relaxing. When it was time to truly rest, the seat transformed into a fully flat bed. The bedding was nothing short of luxurious: high-quality cotton sheets, a substantial hotel-style mattress topper, a fluffy down-filled duvet, and a plush pillow. For this passenger, it was one of the best sleeps ever on an airplane, making the long journey feel surprisingly short.
INDULGENCE & WELLBEING: THE CATHAY PACIFIC DIFFERENCE
No Business Class experience is complete without a touch of pampering, and Cathay Pacific certainly delivers.
The amenity kit, thoughtfully curated by Bamford, a renowned natural skincare brand from England, was a delightful surprise. Filled with revitalizing products including a cooling gel, a multi-purpose moisturizer, and a pillow mist, it was a little slice of luxury that refreshed and helped combat the drying effects of cabin air.
The extensive beverage list was a highlight, a true testament to Cathay Pacific’s commitment to a premium experience. From desirable spirits to an amazing wine list featuring selections to please even the most discerning palate, there was something for everyone. Anyone who appreciates a good non-alcoholic option will be thrilled to see a dedicated list of mocktails. One favourite, the Cathay Delight, is made with coconut milk, kiwi juice, and fresh mint. It’s a tropical burst of flavour – creamy, tangy, and invigorating – and it the perfect pick-me-up at any point in the flight.
And for beer enthusiasts, the specially brewed Beer Betsy, a unique Cathay brew crafted to be enjoyed at altitude, was a delightful discovery.
The always popular Noodle Bar at The Deck
ARIA SUITE ON SELECT HKG-YVR FLIGHTS JUNE 5
Chris van den Hooven, Cathay Pacific’s SVP Americas, highlighted the airline’s ongoing dedication to Canada. “Cathay Pacific has been connecting Canada and Hong Kong for over 40 years, starting with Vancouver in 1983 and expanding to Toronto in 1994,” he said.
He added that the airline’s “ongoing service enhancements and passenger-focused innovations” reflect a commitment to meeting evolving travel needs.
For Canadian travellers, these investments translate to more seamless journeys via Hong Kong to key markets across Asia and beyond. “This year we’re introducing the Aria Suite, a new business class experience on retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, designed with a human-centric focus for daily Vancouver-Hong Kong flights. In Toronto, we’ve elevated our premium services with a new Diamond member dining experience at our partner lounge at Toronto Pearson International Airport,” said van den Hooven.
The all-new Aria Suite Business class will be available on select flights between Vancouver and Hong Kong starting June 5. Flights will be progressively introduced, starting with three flights per week.
Vancouver-Hong Kong is the third long-haul route for the airline’s Aria Suite, which was unveiled in Hong Kong in October 2024 onboard the retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, which also features a new Premium Economy and refreshed Economy cabin.
Cathay Pacific’s longstanding codeshare partnership with Air Canada further expands domestic connectivity. Passengers can seamlessly book travel to major Canadian cities including Winnipeg, Victoria, Edmonton, Calgary, Kelowna, Regina, Saskatoon, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax and St. John’s. The arrangement also allows for reciprocal mileage accrual and redemption, offering added value for frequent flyers.
Collaboration with travel agents remains a cornerstone of the airline’s strategy. “Partnering with travel agents is integral to success at Cathay Pacific, and we greatly value these ongoing relationships,” van den Hooven said. “We are proud to offer a premium product that meets the discerning needs of business and leisure travellers and serves as the ideal airline to connect passengers with Hong Kong and beyond.”
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- Cathay Pacific’s B777-300ER
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- The Pier First Class Lounge
HK$100 BILLION INVESTMENT
Onboard, passengers can expect refined comfort and exceptional amenities. Business Class cabins feature fully flat beds with hotel-style bedding and the airline’s signature ‘wishbone layout’ for added privacy.
Reliable WiFi and a comprehensive entertainment system ensure productivity and relaxation throughout the journey. From August 2025, the airline plans to offer 100% seatback entertainment and WiFi connectivity across the fleet. Passengers also enjoy complimentary access to global newspapers and magazines via PressReader, available 48 hours before departure.
On the ground in Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific’s lounges at Hong Kong International Airport provide a premium experience. While The Wing lounges are undergoing renovation until mid-2026, The Bridge has reopened, alongside The Deck and The Pier lounges. These lounges feature shower suites, the popular Noodle Bar for authentic Hong Kong cuisine, and a curated selection of small plates at The Nook.
Reflecting on the airline’s legacy in Canada, van den Hooven noted, “Operating between Canada and Hong Kong has been paramount in Cathay Pacific’s journey to be one of the world’s greatest service brands. We are incredibly grateful to our loyal customers, our dedicated staff, industry partners, our Hong Kong family, and the communities that have welcomed us with open arms.”
Looking ahead, Cathay Pacific is investing over HK$100 billion to enhance the customer experience, and strengthen Hong Kong’s role as a global aviation hub. “What truly distinguishes Cathay Pacific is our unwavering commitment to the art of hospitality rooted in our Hong Kong heritage,” said van den Hooven. “Every touchpoint is designed to elevate the human spirit and create experiences that travellers can expect and deserve.”
For Canadian travel advisors, these developments reinforce Cathay Pacific’s position as a premium partner, offering unparalleled connectivity and a refined travel experience that reflects the best of Hong Kong hospitality.
LANSON PLACE CAUSEWAY BAY REOPENS
As reported last month, Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is off to a strong start this year, adding 25 new boutique properties to its curated global portfolio in Q1 alone.
In Hong Kong, SLH member property Lanson Place Causeway Bay has reopened as a refined urban sanctuary. The reimagined hotel reopened in March 2024 following an extensive renovation by renowned French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon.
Nestled between the greenery of Victoria Park and the dynamic skyline of Causeway Bay, the boutique hotel seamlessly blends timeless elegance with contemporary sophistication. Featuring 188 stylish rooms and apartments – many with kitchenettes or fully equipped kitchens – Lanson Place caters to both short and extended stays.
The property’s chic restaurant and cocktail lounge, Salon Lanson, invites guests to experience a curated cocktail series inspired by Hong Kong’s iconic landmarks. With a perfect balance of heritage and modern design, Lanson Place Causeway Bay offers Canadian travel professionals a premium option in the heart of Hong Kong’s vibrant energy.
Watch for more coverage about Small Luxury Hotels of the World and Hong Kong in an upcoming edition of Travelweek Daily. Cathay Pacific’s trade portal is here and the SLH site is here.
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- Guest room at Lanson Place Causeway Bay in Hong Kong (photo courtesy SLH)
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- L’Orangerie at Lanson Place Causeway Bay, part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (photo courtesy SLH)