Cathay Pacific Expands with New Service to Seattle
Cathay Pacific, a founding member of the oneworld alliance, is set to expand its presence in the United States by relaunching the Hong Kong (HKG) to Seattle (SEA) route. This move marks the resumption of services that have been suspended for nearly six years, with operations slated to begin again in March next year.
Details of The Airbus A350-900 Services
- Aircraft Model: Airbus A350-900
- Flight Frequency: Five times a week
- Travel Classes: Economy, Premium Economy, and Business
The sleek Airbus A350-900 will operate these flights, offering modern amenities across three travel classes, catering to various passenger budgets.
Flight Timings and Schedules
Beginning March 30, 2026, Cathay Pacific will offer this transpacific service once again. Originally inaugurated in March 2019, the route was suspended in the subsequent year due to the pandemic. The flights will operate on the following schedule:
- Days: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
- Eastbound Flight (CX852): 11 hours and 40 minutes, departing Hong Kong at 13:10 and arriving in Seattle at 10:10
- Westbound Flight (CX853): 13 hours and 55 minutes, departing Seattle at 11:50 and arriving in Hong Kong at 16:45 the following day
Cathay Pacific aims to meet the rising demand for travel between Asia and North America, catering primarily to travelers from mainland China and India.
Summer Timing Adjustments
From March 30 to May 31 and between September 16 to October 24 next year, the schedule mentioned above will apply. During the peak Northern Hemisphere summer months, the Seattle arrival time will shift to 25 minutes later, while the departure from Seattle remains consistent.
Airbus A350-900 Configuration
| Class | Seats |
|---|---|
| Economy Class | 214 |
| Premium Economy | 28 |
| Business Class | 38 |
| Total | 280 |
The aircraft is configured for comfort and efficiency, with business class laid out in a 1-2-1 seating arrangement, ensuring every passenger has aisle access.
Focus on Connectivity
Cathay Pacific’s Chief Customer & Commercial Officer, Lavinia Lau, highlights Seattle’s advantages, including its vibrant tech scene and cultural richness. However, the airline also emphasizes the route’s value for connecting passengers, providing access to over 100 destinations globally through the Cathay Group’s network. In Seattle, passengers can seamlessly connect via oneworld partners Alaska Airlines and American Airlines.
Pricing and Promotions
The airline is marking the route relaunch with promotional fares. Economy class return tickets, available from today until October 31, can be booked for travel departing from March 30 to June 30, 2026, with rates as low as HK$5,060 (approximately $650). The service is also poised to serve belly cargo needs.
