Hong Kong’s Cathay Group has finalized an order with Airbus for 30 A330-900 widebody aircraft. This decision follows a comprehensive evaluation by the airline as part of its mid-size widebody fleet renewal program.
The newly ordered A330-900s will replace Cathay’s older A330-300 models and enhance its operations on high-capacity regional routes. These aircraft will also offer the flexibility to serve longer-range destinations. All A330neo aircraft, including these, will be powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines.
Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam stated: “As Cathay completes the final stretch of its rebuilding journey, we are turning the page to modernisation and growth, both in terms of scope and quality. We are delighted to announce this new order for state-of-the-art A330neo aircraft. This substantial investment reflects not only our immense confidence in Hong Kong’s leading international aviation hub status, but also represents our commitment to fostering our home city’s ongoing development.”
He added: “The A330 is an aircraft type that has been serving Cathay Pacific well for nearly 30 years. These new aircraft will principally serve our regional destinations in Asia, while also providing the flexibility to serve longer-haul destinations as required. The improved fuel efficiency of these A330neos, together with their high standards of comfort, will enable us to further elevate the experience we provide for our customers while also contributing towards our goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, remarked: “This latest order from Cathay, one of the world’s most experienced A330 operators, is a major endorsement of the latest generation A330neo. It is the natural successor for existing A330 fleets, bringing the highest levels of technical and operational commonality, and significant reductions in fuel consumption and carbon emissions. In addition, the award-winning Airspace cabin provides a whole new flight experience.”
He continued: “At Cathay, the A330neo will become the backbone of its regional widebody operations, with the versatility to operate on longer routes. Together with its A320 Family and A350 fleets, the airline will be able to take full benefit from the unique synergies of the latest generation Airbus product line.”
The A330-900 can fly up to 7,200 nautical miles (13,330 kilometers) non-stop and features the award-winning Airspace cabin, which offers a superior flight experience. Like all Airbus aircraft, the A330neo can currently operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a goal to reach 100% SAF by 2030.
As of the end of July, the A330 Family has secured 1,805 firm orders from over 130 customers worldwide, with 1,469 aircraft currently in service across long, medium, and short-haul routes globally.
