Cathay Group has announced a robust performance for March 2026, with significant increases in both passenger numbers and cargo tonnage. The group, which includes Cathay Pacific and HK Express, carried over 3.5 million passengers, marking a substantial rise from the previous year. This surge was driven by major events such as Art Basel Hong Kong and the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show, alongside heightened leisure travel during the Lebaran and Easter holidays.
Cathay Pacific saw a 24% increase in passengers compared to March 2025, with a 9% rise in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs). The airline also launched non-stop flights to Seattle on 30 March. However, due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East, flights to Dubai and Riyadh remain suspended until 30 June 2026. Lavinia Lau, Cathay's Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, noted that demand for premium cabins remained robust throughout the month.
On the cargo front, Cathay Cargo reported an 11% increase in tonnage compared to March 2025, with a 2% rise in Available Freight Tonne Kilometres (AFTKs). The growth was particularly strong in Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and Europe. Specialist solutions like Cathay Priority and Cathay Dangerous Goods saw increased demand, driven by semiconductor and chemical shipments.
Despite these successes, Cathay Group faces challenges from rising jet fuel prices, which have nearly doubled since late February. This has led to a consolidation of some flights, affecting 2% of Cathay Pacific's and 6% of HK Express's total frequencies from mid-May to end-June. The group remains agile, aiming to maintain its network and frequencies whilst monitoring developments in the Middle East and fuel prices
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