Cathay has officially kicked off its 80th anniversary celebrations, marking eight decades of connecting its home city of Hong Kong with the world since its founding in 1946. Stepping into 2026, the airline has unveiled a year-long programme of special events, initiatives and activations under the unifying theme ‘80 Years Together’, celebrating its legacy of bringing people, places and communities closer.
As a prelude to the anniversary year, Cathay unveiled a special commemorative aircraft livery on one of its long-haul Airbus A350 passenger aircraft at a launch event. Featuring the airline’s iconic ‘lettuce leaf sandwich’ green-and-white design alongside the 80th anniversary mark, the livery pays tribute to Cathay’s heritage while symbolising its continued growth and evolution. A second commemorative livery, to be applied on a Boeing 747 freighter, is scheduled to be revealed in the coming weeks.
Speaking at the event, Ronald Lam, Group Chief Executive Officer, Cathay, said, “Today marks not just an important milestone for Cathay, but a celebration of our ‘80 Years Together’ with Hong Kong. Guided by our purpose to move people forward in life, Cathay and Hong Kong have grown together over the past eight decades, supporting each other through thick and thin. From Kai Tak to Chek Lap Kok, whether it’s studying abroad, conducting business, exploring the world, reuniting with family, or delivering vital supplies at critical moments, Cathay has always stood with the people of Hong Kong through countless shared journeys and memories.”
Lam added, “Looking ahead, through our investment of well over HK$100 billion into our fleet, cabin products, lounges and digital innovation, Cathay will continue to elevate the customer experience as we strive towards our refreshed vision to become our customers’ most loved service brand. At the same time, we remain steadfast in our commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s status as a leading international aviation hub.”
He further said, “With the continued support and encouragement of our people, customers and partners, I am confident that Cathay, as an iconic Hong Kong brand, will soar to even greater heights in the years to come.”
Cabin crew dressed in Cathay Pacific’s vintage uniforms from different design eras also made a special appearance, paying tribute to the generations of people who have shaped the airline’s signature service in the skies. Throughout 2026, approximately 1,000 to 2,000 of Cathay’s cabin crew and ground employees will wear and showcase these heritage uniforms while on duty, bringing the evolution of the brand to life in a distinctly Cathay manner.
In addition, customers can look forward to a curated merchandise collection inspired by the commemorative liveries and iconic design elements from various chapters of Cathay’s history. The collection reinterprets these timeless visuals across aviation-themed, travel and lifestyle products.
The airline has confirmed that several more celebratory initiatives and experiences will be rolled out progressively throughout 2026, further marking its 80-year legacy of connecting Hong Kong with the world.
