Cathay Pacific to launch double daily service to New York

Cathay Pacific Airways today announced the launch of a new daily nonstop service between Hong Kong and New York starting on 1 September. The new service will give Cathay Pacific a double daily flight between the two financial cities. The new service will increase the number of Cathay Pacific flights between Hong Kong and North America to 56 a week, more than any other airline.

Cathay Pacific's current daily service between Hong Kong and New York, which includes a stopover in Vancouver, will remain unchanged. While the current service flies over the North Pacific, the new service will fly over the North Polar region saving more than two hours flight time each way. Both flights will operate out of John F. Kennedy International Airport.

The new nonstop service will be operated using an Airbus Industrie A340-300 with an enhanced cabin featuring greater legroom. The aircraft will carry 193 passengers in three classes, including eight in the airline's popular new First Class, a larger Business Class with 60 seats instead of the standard 38, and 125 passengers in Economy Class.

Cathay Pacific's Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive David Turnbull said: "We are delighted to introduce a new nonstop service between Hong Kong and New York. The service should be highly popular with business travellers as it offers enhanced services between two of the world's leading business capitals. By operating a double daily service on the route we are confirming our commitment to strengthening Hong Kong's links with the key North American cities."

Details of the New York nonstop service are as follows:

These flights are now open for booking. Passengers can book through their travel agent, Cathay Pacific reservations on 27473333, or by www.cathaypacific.com.

Cathay Pacific was the first airline in the world to operate a nonstop flight between Hong Kong and New York to commemorate the opening of the new Hong Kong International Airport in June 1998. Cathay Pacific currently operates passenger or freighter flights to six destinations in North America: Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Toronto, and Vancouver.