Cathay Pacific Eyes Widebody Aircraft Order

Cathay Pacific is continuing its process of purchasing a new midsized widebody aircraft.

Reporting led by Flightglobal indicates that a purchase will likely come by year’s end as the carrier continues to weigh up its available options.

Furthermore, the airline is also looking to ensure long-term stability in the market as it continues to recover from the global pandemic that decimated the business.

Behind The Cathay Pacific Order

Cathay Pacific’s interest in purchasing a new aircraft saw advances at the beginning of 2024, with the airline assessing options from Airbus and Boeing.

The airline was said to be considering all available aircraft. Additionally, Cathay Pacific had sent requests for proposals to the manufacturers to gauge what was on offer, deals, and availability.

Cathay Pacific is looking to target a mid-sized widebody, with nothing outlandish but still modest enough to benefit the long-term business.

A new mid-size jet order has been in the pipeline since 2022. However, the carrier has held off on purchasing any aircraft as it continues to assess recovery, finances, and demand across its business.

A prospective new aircraft purchase is primarily focused on elevating passenger operations. However, Cathay has placed equal importance on the cargo business.

Analysts argue that the Airbus A330neo or Boeing 787 are likely to be the ideal mid-sized options. However, Cathay Pacific already flies the Airbus A350 quite extensively, with the -900 and -1000 in the current fleet.

Therefore, siding with the A350 could be the best option to ensure a streamlined portfolio. The alternatives may be deemed more suitable if the company is looking for something more modest.

Cathay Pacific doesn’t fly the Boeing 787. However, it does have the Airbus A330ceo, which only continues to show signs of age. The A330neo, a type up for consideration, is Airbus’ natural replacement for its older A330ceos and thus could be a preferred option.