Cathay Pacific, an award-winning Hong Kong-based international airline, is set to redefine the premium economy class experience with its upcoming fleet of Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. In a recent interview regarding changes to Cathay Pacific’s new premium economy class, Cathay Pacific’s General Manager of Customer Experience and Design, Vivian Lo, noted that flying premium economy means “more than a seat, but rather an experience.” With a focus on designing a premium cabin, the airliner has taken a more human-centric approach in designing the new premium economy experience for guests travelling on their upcoming fleet of Boeing 777-300ER.
Major Upgrades in Seating Comfort and Ergonomics
Set to fully deploy in early 2027, Cathay Pacific has made major changes to the existing premium economy experience that it has been providing for its passengers since 2012. These changes are designed to make long-haul flights more comfortable for its passengers, which means that Cathay Pacific has to adjust various elements, starting from the seat.
While the size of the seat in the new premium economy does not change, passengers will find that the new ergonomics of the seats are more accommodating. These changes include enhanced seat padding and leg rests, which bring comfort to travellers who are looking to rest. The new wing-shaped headrest gives them a sense of privacy, an essential feature for long journeys. Complementing this new headrest design, the LED reading lamp has moved from above the passenger to the seat itself, accommodating the passenger’s seating position as they choose to sit up or recline. Lastly, the process of deploying and stowing tables in the premium economy class has been automated to buttons, ensuring ease of use and convenience.
Enhanced In-Flight Entertainment System
Cathay Pacific also opted to use this opportunity to overhaul its entertainment system offerings. Passengers will be introduced to 15.6-inch 4K TV screens when flying in premium economy, with a new graphical user interface to complement this new equipment. Bluetooth pairing has also been implemented, allowing passengers to bring and use their headphones while enjoying Cathay Pacific’s extensive in-flight entertainment offerings. This upgrade ensures that passengers have access to a wide range of high-quality entertainment options, enhancing their overall flight experience.
Elevated Dining Experience
To reflect this premium experience, Cathay Pacific has also elevated the dining experience for its premium economy passengers. The airline has partnered with various popular Hong Kong restaurant groups to cater to the ever-changing palates of travellers. In addition to Italian comfort food from Pirata and traditional Hong Kong flavours from Duddell’s, vegetarian restaurant groups Veda and Plant Sifu are also among these partnerships. This collaboration offers Jain meal options and plant-based options to health-conscious travellers without compromising Cathay Pacific’s dedication to providing passengers with a high-quality and flavorful dining experience.
Refined Wine Selection
To complement their updated menu, Cathay Pacific has looked closer to home for inspiration for adjustments to their wine selection. Working with several of China’s leading winemakers, Cathay has updated its wine selection for premium economy passengers, which includes Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite’s Domaine de Long Dai 2020. This curated selection of wines ensures that passengers can enjoy a premium dining experience that is both sophisticated and enjoyable.
Dedicated Facilities for Premium Economy Passengers
Topping off the changes to the premium economy experience are two dedicated washrooms for these passengers flying on the Boeing 777-300ER. This addition underscores Cathay Pacific’s commitment to providing a premium and comfortable flying experience. As a vote of confidence, Cathay Pacific will add 16 premium economy seats to their Boeing 777-300ER models compared to other aircraft in their fleet. Aircraft models such as the current A350s are candidates for this retrofitting in the future, further enhancing the premium economy experience across their fleet.
Commitment to Excellence
Cathay Pacific’s upcoming fleet of Boeing 777-300ER aircraft represents a significant investment in the premium economy experience. By focusing on comfort, entertainment, dining, and overall passenger experience, the airline is setting a new standard for premium economy travel. These enhancements are designed to make long-haul flights more enjoyable and comfortable, ensuring that passengers arrive at their destinations feeling refreshed and satisfied.
For more information on Cathay Pacific’s new premium economy experience, please visit the official Cathay Pacific website.
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