Cathay Pacific's New Aria Suite Business Class Debuts on Sydney-Hong Kong Route
Travellers can now experience the brand new Cathay Pacific Business Class "Aria" suite between Sydney and Hong Kong.
Cathay Pacific has officially launched its next-generation Aria Suite business class on selected flights between Sydney and Hong Kong, bringing a new level of comfort and privacy to its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
Sydney is the first long-haul destination outside of Europe to feature the Aria Suite, following its debut on flights between Hong Kong and London in January. The upgraded aircraft will initially operate five times per week before being permanently scheduled on flight CX162 from early April.
A New Era for Business Class
The Aria Suite is a significant step up from Cathay Pacific’s already well-regarded business class, introducing sliding privacy doors, soft LED lighting, and a 24-inch 4K entertainment screen—the largest the airline has ever offered. Wireless charging and improved storage solutions are also included to enhance the passenger experience.
While the layout remains a familiar 1-2-1 reverse herringbone configuration, offering direct aisle access for all passengers, the new suite design focuses on privacy and personal space. Each seat is framed by a 1.25-metre-high wraparound wall, creating a personal cocoon for travellers. Thoughtful details such as Hong Kong-inspired artwork within the cabin further reflect Cathay Pacific’s commitment to a refined travel experience.
Passengers can customise their suite ambience with intuitive lighting controls, including pre-set modes for different activities such as dining, relaxing, and sleeping. The seat itself features soft-touch suede walls, breathable wool upholstery, and a leather ottoman to enhance comfort.
A unique multi-tier storage system includes a sliding drawer for valuables, a dedicated water bottle holder, and a side stowage compartment for shoes and handbags.
Upgraded Premium Economy and Economy Cabins
In addition to the Aria Suite, Cathay Pacific has refreshed its Premium Economy and Economy cabins on the retrofitted 777-300ER. The aircraft is now configured with a total of 361 seats, comprising 45 Business, 48 Premium Economy, and 268 Economy seats.
Premium Economy features larger seats, enhanced privacy with headrest wings, and new 15.6-inch 4K screens with Bluetooth audio pairing. Dedicated lavatories and touchless amenities further elevate the experience. The redesigned Economy cabin incorporates improved ergonomics, additional overhead bin space, and new inflight entertainment enhancements, including Bluetooth audio connectivity.
Flight Schedule and Availability
Cathay Pacific’s updated 777-300ER featuring the Aria Suite is currently flying on the Sydney-Hong Kong route five times per week, with the following schedule:
Until March 30, 2025:
- CX101 (Hong Kong to Sydney): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday (11:55 PM - 12:00 PM)
- CX100 (Sydney to Hong Kong): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday (3:15 PM - 9:30 PM)
From March 30, 2025:
- CX161 (Hong Kong to Sydney): Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday (9:20 PM - 9:35 AM)
- CX162 (Sydney to Hong Kong): Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday (11:05 AM - 5:30 PM)
Cathay Pacific’s Long-Term Vision
The launch of the Aria Suite is part of a broader HK$100 billion investment into Cathay Pacific’s fleet, lounges, and digital innovation. According to Frosti Lau, Cathay Pacific’s Regional General Manager for Southwest Pacific, the decision to prioritise Sydney for the new suite highlights the airline’s commitment to the Australian market.
““We understand that customers are not just looking for a comfortable seat, but rather a space where they can enjoy, relax and immerse themselves in the experience” Lau said.
“Every aspect has been carefully considered to give our customers the best premium long-haul experience in the sky, because we know itʼs this attention to detail that makes the biggest difference and sets Cathay Pacific apart.”
With these enhancements, Cathay Pacific is aiming to redefine premium air travel, ensuring its passengers enjoy a more private, intuitive, and seamless journey between Sydney and Hong Kong. Business class passengers can also enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi access, adding to the suite’s connectivity features.
The airline’s commitment to innovation extends beyond the business class cabin, with inflight connectivity now available across all cabins. Passengers can browse the internet, stream content, and use social media while flying, enhancing the overall travel experience.
As more retrofitted 777-300ER aircraft enter service, Cathay Pacific plans to expand the Aria Suite experience to additional long-haul routes, bringing its latest premium cabin to more global travellers.
