Hong Kong’s Cathay Group has placed a firm order for 30 A330-900 widebody aircraft from Airbus.
The order, announced on 7 August 2024, follows an evaluation by the airline as part of its mid-size widebody fleet renewal program.
Cathay plans to use the new aircraft to modernise its older A330-300 fleet and expand operations on high-capacity regional routes.
The A330neo aircraft will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines.
Ronald Lam, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer, said the order reflected the company’s confidence in Hong Kong’s aviation sector.
“This substantial investment reflects not only our immense confidence in Hong Kong’s leading international aviation hub status, but also represents our commitment to fostering our home city’s ongoing development,” Lam said.
He added that the new aircraft would primarily serve regional destinations in Asia, with flexibility for longer-haul routes.
“The improved fuel efficiency of these A330neos, together with their high standards of comfort, will enable us to further elevate the experience we provide for our customers while also contributing towards our goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,” Lam said.
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, described the order as a major endorsement of the A330neo.
“It is the natural successor for existing A330 fleets, bringing the highest levels of technical and operational commonality, and significant reductions in fuel consumption and carbon emissions,” Scherer said.
The A330-900 can fly 7,200 nautical miles non-stop and features the Airspace cabin design.
Airbus said the aircraft can currently operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with aims to increase this to 100% by 2030.
As of July 2024, the A330 Family had received 1,805 firm orders from over 130 customers worldwide, with 1,469 aircraft in service globally.
