Cathay Pacific has marked its 80th anniversary by unveiling a retro aircraft livery and launching a year-long programme of celebrations, paying tribute to its roots in Hong Kong and its evolution into one of Asia’s leading airlines.
The commemorative livery has been featured on one of Cathay’s long-haul Airbus A350-900 jets, bringing back the airline’s distinctive green-and-white “lettuce leaf sandwich” design coupled with an “80” anniversary mark on the fuselage.
The aircraft entered commercial service in early January, operating scheduled long-haul flights from Hong Kong. A second retro livery is set to appear later this month on a Boeing 747 freighter, extending the anniversary theme to Cathay’s cargo operations.
The year 2026 marks eight decades since the airline was founded in 1946, highlighting its legacy of connecting Hong Kong with destinations around the world.
“Today marks not just an important milestone for Cathay, but a celebration of our ‘80 Years Together’ with Hong Kong. Guided by our purpose to move people forward in life, Cathay and Hong Kong have grown together over the past eight decades, supporting each other through thick and thin. From Kai Tak to Chek Lap Kok, whether it’s studying abroad, conducting business, exploring the world, reuniting with family, or delivering vital supplies at critical moments, Cathay has always stood with the people of Hong Kong through countless shared journeys and memories,» the airline said in a press release.
As part of the anniversary programme, the airline also showcased vintage uniforms, reflecting its legacy and honouring the generations of employees who have shaped Cathay Pacific’s service. Throughout 2026, around 1,000 to 2,000 cabin crew and ground staff will wear the heritage uniforms on duty, highlighting the airline’s evolution over the decades. Cathay is also rolling out a curated line of commemorative merchandise inspired by its retro liveries and iconic design elements from across its history, covering aviation, travel and lifestyle products.
“Looking ahead, through our investment of well over HK$100 billion into our fleet, cabin products, lounges and digital innovation, Cathay will continue to elevate the customer experience as we strive towards our refreshed vision to become our customers’ most loved service brand. At the same time, we remain steadfast in our commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s status as a leading international aviation hub.”
Founded in 1946, Cathay Pacific has grown from a small regional operator into a global airline serving more than 100 destinations. The return of the retro livery honours that history while highlighting the airline’s ambitions for the future, with further anniversary events planned throughout the year.
