Hong Kong Carrier Takes Ten Long-Range Boeings, 15 Mid-Size Airbus Airliners

Hong-Kong-based Cathay Pacific Airways has ordered a total of 25 new airplanes last week, including 10 Boeing 777-300ER (extended range) airplanes and 15 Airbus A330-300s.

Cathay Pacific first announced its selection of the 777-300ER for its fleet requirements in 2005. With this order, Cathay Pacific will increase its Boeing 777-300ER planned fleet from 36 to 46 (including 4 leased). It's the fifth increase in its acquisition plans for the long-range jetliner.

"Cathay Pacific is a world-class carrier and a valued long-time partner.  It has made the 777-300ER the foundation of its significant fleet enhancement for long-haul routes," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales & Marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 777-300ER will as always provide superior operating efficiency, economics and reliability, as well as a very comfortable cabin experience for the passenger."

Cathay Pacific uses the Boeing 777-300ER as the backbone for its ultra-long-haul and long-haul fleet, mainly serving destinations in North America and Europe. "The Asia Pacific region is the world's fastest growing aviation market and Cathay Pacific is well positioned in Hong Kong to take advantage of this blooming market to grow our business," said Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Officer Tony Tyler. "Our newest 777 order highlights our continued commitment to developing Hong Kong's role as one of the world's leading international aviation hubs. As we continue to expand our fleet, the 777-300ER will play a crucial role in our operations in the years to come."

The airline has also placed a firm order with Airbus for 15 more A330-300s. Scheduled for delivery from 2013, the aircraft will join the airline's existing A330 fleet flying on services across the Asia-Pacific region. As with the airline's existing A330 fleet, the newly ordered aircraft will be powered by Trent 700 engines from Rolls-Royce.

"The A330 has proved itself to be an extremely efficient and versatile aircraft for Cathay Pacific, flying on Asian regional services and longer operations to the Middle East and Australia," said Tony Tyler, Chief Executive, Cathay Pacific Airways. "Our latest order reflects our confidence that the A330 will continue to meet our needs well into the future, both economically and operationally, as a key part of our fleet."

"The latest order from Cathay Pacific underscores the position of the A330 as the most popular mid-size widebody flying today," said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer - Customers, Airbus. "The proven reliability, low operating costs and strong passenger appeal offered by the A330 will ensure that it remains the most efficient aircraft in its class for many years to come."

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.airbus.com, www.cathaypacific.com/cpa/en_US/homepage