Cathay Pacific has just introduced its new Aria Suite Business Class, part of a larger upgrade to its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The new suites are designed to offer more comfort, privacy, and updated tech, and are already flying on the Hong Kong to Beijing route as of October 18, 2024.

Key Features of the Aria Suite

  • Layout: The Aria Suites are laid out in a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone pattern, meaning every seat has direct aisle access. Window seats are great for solo travelers, while the center seats are better for those flying with a companion.
  • Privacy: High walls and doors give each passenger plenty of privacy. The center seats also have adjustable dividers for more separation.
  • New Look: Instead of the usual Cathay green, the suites are done in neutral tones like cream and taupe, creating a calming atmosphere. Plus, each plane will feature unique artwork inspired by Hong Kong.
  • Tech Upgrades: Each seat has a 24-inch 4K screen with Bluetooth for wireless headphones. You can also charge your devices using USB-A, USB-C, or wireless charging pads. There’s even free Wi-Fi.
  • Comfort: The seats lie flat for a full bed, and come with premium bedding and amenities. You’ll also find multiple storage areas and a handy tray table with a built-in holder for your devices.
Find award seats on the new Cathay Pacific Aria Suites Business Class concept, from Hong Kong to Beijing. Find award seats on the new Cathay Pacific Aria Suites Business Class concept, from Hong Kong to Beijing. Find award seats on the new Cathay Pacific Aria Suites Business Class concept, from Hong Kong to Beijing. Find award seats on the new Cathay Pacific Aria Suites Business Class concept, from Hong Kong to Beijing.

Rollout and Routes

Cathay is retrofitting its entire fleet of 30 Boeing 777-300ERs with Aria Suites by the end of 2027, with one plane being updated each month. The first one is already in service, flying between Hong Kong and Beijing. Long-haul routes will be added as more planes are upgraded. These retrofitted planes won’t have first class anymore, but Cathay has plans for a brand-new first class product coming on its future Boeing 777-9 aircraft.

How to Book Cathay’s Aria Suite with Points

Booking a seat on the new Aria Suites might be tricky for a while since only a few planes will have them at first. Starting October 18th, the suites will be flying on the Hong Kong to Beijing route.

Cathay’s award seats have been tough, but possible to book through partner programs like Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan or American Airlines AAdvantage. You’ll most likely need around 110,000 American Airlines miles or 75,000-85,000 Alaska miles for a one-way business class ticket. The best way to snag a seat is through Cathay’s Asia Miles program, which you can transfer points to from Amex, Bilt, Capital One, and Citi.

Find Award Seats with AwardFares

AwardFares is your best friend to quickly find the best available award seats, just follow these steps:

  1. Go to AwardFares.
  2. Select your favorite loyalty program (e.g. Mileage Plan or AAdvantage).
  3. Choose a desired Route (e.g. Hong Kong (HKG) to Beijing (PEK))
  4. Pick a date, or use the Timeline View to explore availability on different dates.
  5. Under Airline, select Cathay Pacific only
  6. Add Business Class to the Cabin filter.
  7. Done! AwardFares will do its magic and show you flights ready to be booked in the list below, with details such as the prices, number of stops, total travel time, aircraft used, and more!

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