The Cathay Group has announced a significant increase in its June 2026 traffic figures, with both passenger numbers and cargo volumes rising by 9% compared to the same month last year. This growth comes despite high jet fuel prices, as stated by Lavinia Lau, Cathay's Chief Customer and Commercial Officer. Cathay Pacific and HK Express together transported over 3.1 million passengers, whilst Cathay Cargo handled approximately 145,000 tonnes of cargo.
Cathay Pacific experienced a 12% rise in passenger numbers in June 2026 compared to June 2025, with a 6% increase in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs). The first half of 2026 saw a 17% increase in passengers compared to the same period in 2025. Lau noted that the Middle East situation contributed to increased transit traffic through Hong Kong, whilst the Dragon Boat Festival boosted short-haul travel demand.
Cathay Cargo's tonnage also grew by 9% year-on-year in June, with a 1% increase in Available Freight Tonne Kilometres (AFTKs). Strong demand from the Chinese Mainland to Southeast Asia and resilient shipments into Hong Kong supported this growth. Specialist solutions like Cathay Expert and Cathay Pharma saw increased demand, particularly for semiconductor and pharmaceutical shipments.
HK Express, however, saw a 4% decrease in passenger numbers in June 2026 compared to the previous year, with a 7% reduction in ASKs. Despite this, regions such as the Chinese Mainland, the Philippines, and Thailand recorded load factors above 85%.
Financially, the Cathay Group expects to report a consolidated profit of approximately $770 million to $835 million (HK$6.0 to HK$6.5 billion) for the first half of 2026, up from $475 million (HK$3.7 billion) in the same period of 2025. This increase is attributed to strong demand for Cathay Pacific and Cathay Cargo, improved performance from HK Express, and better contributions from associates. The finalised results are anticipated in August 2026
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