May, 21 : Cathay Pacific reported robust growth across its passenger and cargo operations in April 2026, supported by strong leisure travel demand, seasonal traffic, and resilient cargo performance, despite elevated jet fuel prices and geopolitical uncertainties in the Middle East.
Commenting on the airline’s performance, Lavinia Lau, Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, said:
“April continued to present a mixed picture. Travel demand was robust and passenger load factors were high driven by holiday and seasonal travel, while cargo volumes were healthy. However, jet fuel prices remained at highly elevated levels amidst the ongoing Middle East situation, increasing cost pressures.”
The airline stated that it continues to remain agile in response to evolving market conditions and is closely monitoring geopolitical developments.
Cathay Pacific Passenger Operations
Cathay Pacific carried 17% more passengers in April 2026 compared to April 2025, while Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) increased by 15%. During the first four months of 2026, passenger traffic rose 19% year-on-year.
Strong performance during April was driven by Easter holiday travel, seasonal demand, and increased long-haul traffic into Hong Kong, supported by major events including the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens. “Golden Week” pre-holiday travel also boosted both inbound and outbound passenger traffic across the airline’s network.
Demand for premium cabins remained strong, supported by exhibitions and business events in Hong Kong that attracted corporate travellers from across the region.
Looking ahead to the summer travel season, Cathay Pacific and HK Express confirmed that their July and August flight schedules will remain intact to support customers and the Hong Kong aviation hub.
Due to softened travel demand to the Middle East, Cathay Pacific announced an extension of the suspension of passenger services to Dubai and Riyadh until the end of August. The airline said the affected capacity will be redeployed to high-demand routes such as Manchester and Rome.
Despite a limited number of flight cancellations earlier announced for May and June, Cathay Pacific said it remains on track to achieve its 2026 passenger capacity growth target of approximately 10%.
Cathay Cargo Performance
Cathay Cargo recorded 8% year-on-year growth in cargo carried during April 2026, while Available Freight Tonne Kilometres (AFTKs) increased by 7%. Cargo tonnage for the first four months of 2026 also increased by 8% compared with the same period last year.
The company said demand to the Americas remained solid, while inbound cargo traffic into Hong Kong continued to benefit from strong shipments originating from Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Specialist cargo solutions performed strongly, particularly semiconductor shipments within Asia and technology-related exports from the Americas into Hong Kong. The airline also reported healthy growth in its pharmaceutical logistics segment, especially shipments from Europe into Mainland China.
Cathay Cargo further strengthened its Southeast Asia operations with the addition of Bangkok to its freighter network earlier this month.
HK Express Continues Passenger Growth
HK Express carried nearly 730,000 passengers in April 2026, representing a 5% increase year-on-year, while ASKs grew by 7%.
For the first four months of 2026, HK Express recorded a 14% increase in passenger traffic compared to the same period last year.
The airline attributed the growth to strong demand on Thailand routes and services to secondary cities in Northeast Asia. Bookings for May and the upcoming months continue to trend ahead of last year across most routes.
Cathay Pacific said it remains focused on maintaining operational stability, responding dynamically to market demand, and strengthening Hong Kong’s position as a leading international aviation hub.