Tuesday 22 October 2024

• Cathay Pacific marks 50 years of flights between Sydney and Hong Kong
• Landmark journey began in 1974 with 108 passengers on board a Boeing 707
• Today, the Cathay Group flies to over 90 passenger and cargo destinations across the globe with Skytrax naming Cathay Pacific ‘World’s Best Airline’ four times

Cathay Pacific marks an important milestone today, celebrating the 50th anniversary of its inaugural direct flights between Sydney and Hong Kong, a journey that has transformed travel to Asia.

In October 1974, 108 passengers boarded the first Boeing 707 bound for Hong Kong, a direct route that eliminated the need for complicated layovers across Australia and Asia. This milestone not only revolutionised travel but also strengthened ties between two vibrant cities.

Over the past five decades, Cathay Pacific has evolved into one of the world’s strongest and most connected airlines. The Cathay Group now serves over 90 passenger and cargo destinations globally.

Greg Botham Group Executive, Aviation Growth & Group Strategy, Sydney Airport, said: “We are proud to celebrate Cathay Pacific's 50-year milestone of flying between Sydney and Hong Kong. This iconic route has been a vital cornerstone of our Asia network, fostering connections and promoting tourism between two major cities.

“Cathay Pacific's unwavering commitment to service and excellence has played a pivotal role in enhancing Sydney Airport’s position as a global gateway, and we look forward to many more years of partnership and growth together.”

Frosti Lau, Regional General Manager Southwest Pacific, Cathay Pacific said: “Cathay Pacific has had a long history with Australia, with one of our founders being Sydneysider, Sydney de Kantzow. To celebrate 50 years of flying passengers direct between Sydney and Hong Kong is truly a momentous occasion.

“While Sydney has always been a key destination for Cathay Pacific customers, we have also been moving cargo between the two cities and beyond since our inception in 1946.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with Sydney Airport and bringing exceptional service to those we connect with the rest of the world.”

The Sydney service has expanded significantly, growing from a daily flight to double, triple, and now four daily flights, reflecting Sydney Airport’s commitment to meeting passenger demand and enhancing connectivity.

Today, Cathay Pacific continues to expand its offering for passengers, not only transporting them to new destinations across its expansive network, but also providing a premium service and state-of-the-art in-flight products seen through its recent unveiling of its new Business Class, the Aria Suite. The airline has also garnered recognition from Skytrax World Airline Awards, being named ‘World’s Best Airline’ four times and was recently named “World’s Best Economy Class” and “#5 in World’s Best Airline” for 2024.

Notes to editor

Cathay Pacific facts

• The first Sydney to Hong Kong flight was piloted by Captain Bob Howell, First Officer Hal Dyball, and Flight Engineer Bruce Holyman.
• Since 1994, over 1,800 Cathay Pacific pilots have trained in Adelaide, reinforcing the airline’s dedication to safety and excellence in aviation.
• To celebrate Cathay Pacific's 50th anniversary flying between Sydney Airport and Hong Kong, the airline is giving away Cathay Pacific Flight Vouchers worth $500. Customers can enter the competition here