Cathay Pacific Launches "80 Years Together" Anniversary Celebrations

As the aviation sector enters 2026, Cathay Pacific is celebrating a significant milestone in its rich history with the official commencement of its 80th anniversary festivities. Embracing the theme "80 Years Together," the Hong Kong-based airline is honouring eight decades of linking its home city to the globe, while paying tribute to the individuals, partnerships, and collective journeys that have contributed to its legacy since its establishment in 1946.

The anniversary programme was officially unveiled at a special event in January, setting the tone for a year-long series of commemorative activities, special initiatives, and brand activations that will run throughout 2026. Central to the celebrations is Cathay’s enduring relationship with Hong Kong, a bond that has evolved alongside the city’s own transformation into one of the world’s leading international aviation hubs.

To herald the milestone year, Cathay revealed a striking special livery applied to one of its long-haul Airbus A350 passenger aircraft. The design features a modern interpretation of the airline’s iconic green-and-white “lettuce leaf sandwich” paint scheme, paired with a prominent 80th anniversary emblem. The nostalgic livery pays tribute to Cathay’s heritage while symbolising its forward-looking ambition and continued evolution.

Adding further significance to the celebration, Cathay confirmed that a second aircraft, one of its Boeing 747 freighters, will also receive the commemorative “lettuce leaf sandwich” livery in the coming weeks. The decision to include a cargo aircraft highlights the vital role Cathay Cargo has played over the decades, particularly in supporting global supply chains and Hong Kong’s position as a major logistics gateway.

Speaking at the launch event, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam reflected on the airline’s journey and its deep-rooted connection with its home city. He described the anniversary not simply as a corporate milestone, but as a shared celebration with Hong Kong and the millions of people who have flown with Cathay over the years.

Lam noted that from the early days operating out of Kai Tak Airport to today’s modern hub at Hong Kong International Airport at Chek Lap Kok, Cathay has been present for countless life moments, from study and business travel to family reunions, exploration, and humanitarian missions. Through times of growth and challenge alike, the airline and Hong Kong have supported one another, growing stronger together.

Looking to the future, Lam reaffirmed Cathay’s long-term commitment to innovation, service excellence, and Hong Kong’s aviation leadership. The airline is in the midst of a major investment programme valued at more than HK$100 billion (approximately R210 billion), spanning new aircraft, upgraded cabin products, enhanced lounges, and advanced digital capabilities. These investments are aligned with Cathay’s refreshed vision of becoming its customers’ most loved service brand, while reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a premier global aviation hub.

A highlight of the anniversary launch was the appearance of Cathay cabin crew dressed in vintage uniforms representing various eras of the airline’s history. The uniforms, which trace the evolution of Cathay’s visual identity and service style, served as a tribute to the generations of employees who have helped define the airline’s reputation in the skies.

Throughout 2026, approximately 1,000 to 2,000 cabin crew and ground staff will wear and showcase these heritage uniforms while on duty, bringing Cathay’s history to life for customers and the public alike. The initiative underscores the airline’s belief that its people are central to its success - past, present, and future.

In addition to aircraft liveries and heritage uniforms, Cathay is introducing a specially curated anniversary merchandise collection. Inspired by iconic designs from different chapters of the airline’s history, the range will feature aviation-themed items, travel accessories, and everyday lifestyle products that reimagine Cathay’s visual heritage for a modern audience.

As the “80 Years Together” celebrations gather momentum, Cathay has indicated that more announcements, events and customer-focused initiatives will be revealed over the course of the year. Together, they are intended to celebrate not only the airline’s past achievements, but also its aspirations for the decades ahead.

For Cathay Pacific, the 80th anniversary is both a reflection on a remarkable journey and a statement of intent, a reaffirmation of its purpose to move people forward in life, and to continue connecting Hong Kong with the world for generations to come.