Cathay Pacific unveils Aria business class suite and new premium economy seat

Cathay Pacific unveils Aria business class suite: Photo Copyright Cathay Pacific Airways

Cathay Pacific Airways has released images and a video (see below) of new seats which will feature on the Hong Kong's national flagship carrier's improved cabin for the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

The Hong Kong airline teased the launch of its new business class Aria Suite in August 2023; however, has now given more details of both this and the all-new premium economy seat which will be fitted to the aircraft for their long-haul routes. It’s not yet clear exactly when the first aircraft featuring the new cabins will enter service, and which routes they will be deployed on. However, I would not be surprised if they are on the Europe and North American destinations [London and New York are always a favorite!].

The Aria Suite will feature a sliding door [which has become an industry standard], as well as a privacy partition between the middle seats. Interestingly, only a handful of airlines are choosing to install new business class seats in 2024 without the sliding doors. It’s not clear how high these go; however, the seat walls do appear to be higher along the aisle and around the back curve of the seat. Similar to the ones in Club World on British Airways.

Cathay Pacific unveils Aria business class suite: Photo Copyright Cathay Pacific Airways

Other provisions include a 24-inch 4K IFE monitor, personalised suite lighting, wireless charging and Bluetooth capabilities, a storage unit with mirror and another smaller storage space which is revealed by sliding across the suite’s cocktail table.

Meanwhile the premium economy seat will offer a 15.6-inch IFE screen, as well as a winged headrest, personal reading light and an unspecified “generous recline and legroom”.

The carrier’s economy seat has also been “refreshed”, with touches including Bluetooth connectivity and a ledge which folds down to hold drinks and personal devices.

Though I have not personally tried the seat to feel it's comfort, but the look of the new seats reflects that one may experience in a luxury hotel or an airport lounge. It is meant to be your home away from [luxury] home, and it is the warmth of the colours and the seats that provides a comfortable texture and finish.