Hong Kong’s national airline, Cathay Pacific, has revealed newly designed cabin accommodation that it says will “redefine privacy and comfort in the clouds.”
Fully-enclosed seats
The ‘Aria Suite’, showcased at Hong Kong International Airport, will feature on select Boeing 777-300ER aircraft from 18 October 2024, Simple Flying reports, with passengers flying the airline’s Beijing route given first dibs, followed by those headed to Los Angeles and Vancouver.
Retaining the Business Class signature “reverse herringbone 1-2-1 layout”, passengers will still face windows not the aisle, but will benefit from fully enclosed seats for the first time thanks to the addition of a suite door. Adjustable dividers and a fixed back shell will ensure no one is disturbed by a fully-reclined seat, according to press materials.
A colour scheme of “sandy, creamy tones” with marbling and woodgrain finishes giving “a touch of luxury”, will create a “serene atmosphere” the airline says, while “hidden cubbies and storage compartments” provide the practicality flyers need.
Advanced inflight technology
Also boasting unique “activity mode” settings, seat positions and lighting are adjustable for different phases of the flight, such as dining, relaxing and sleeping. For those that want to get some work done on board, high-powered charging pads, USB-A and USB-C ports, and complimentary Wi-Fi will ease the task.
Entertainment comes via a 24-inch 4K high-definition screen, Cathay Pacific’s largest, and Bluetooth headphone connectivity, as well as a sync feature that allows passengers to share viewing and listening experiences.
Culture, dining and pampering
Works of art by Hong Kong creatives will be on show too in Cathay Pacific’s “gallery in the skies” and flyers will be able to sample the flavours of the Asian city’s Cantonese and international cuisine with a “plant-forward” menu prepared by award-winning chefs and a selection of fine wines, champagne and even the airline’s own Betsy beer to wash it down.
And for flyers requiring some pampering, a skincare kit from British organic clothing and cosmetics brand Bamford, as well as 400-thread count cotton bedlinen, a sleep mask, slippers and pillows, are provided, helping passengers arrive at their destination feeling rested and at the top of their game.
A comprehensive re-design
Elsewhere, Premium Economy and Economy customers have not been forgotten in the refurb. Premium economy flyers have dedicated lavatories, and back in their seats they will find seat wings and dividers give them more privacy to enjoy their new 15.6-inch 4K screen with Bluetooth connectivity. Over in economy seating there are improved ergonomics, flexible headrests and an enhanced entertainment interface.
Drawing attention to the extent of the “comprehensive” overhaul, the airline’s press release said the investment “reflects Cathay Pacific’s dedication to innovation and passenger comfort, setting a new benchmark for long-haul travel.”
