Hong Kong-based Cathay Cargo is positioning itself for future growth by advancing plans to modernise its freighter fleet and capitalise on rising demand for perishables and fresh cargo services. The cargo division of Cathay Pacific sees these strategic priorities as key to expanding capacity and strengthening its network in the coming years.
Cathay Cargo currently operates a fleet dominated by Boeing 747 freighters, with 20 aircraft under its own control. To support long-term growth and improve operational efficiency, the airline has placed a firm order for six new Airbus A350 freighters, with rights to acquire up to 20 additional aircraft in future. The A350F, which offers up to 40 % lower fuel burn and CO₂ emissions compared with older freighters, is expected to play a pivotal role in renewals once deliveries begin, currently scheduled to start in 2028 and continue into 2029.
James Evans, General Manager of Cargo Commercial at Cathay Cargo, said the A350Fs will expand the airline’s capability to serve busy long-haul trade lanes out of Hong Kong, particularly as global demand recovers and e-commerce volumes grow beyond traditional markets. While the group benefits from ample belly capacity in its passenger fleet, freighter capacity remains relatively limited, making next-generation aircraft a priority for future competitiveness.
Alongside fleet renewal, Cathay Cargo is stepping up efforts to grow its perishables and fresh cargo services. The airline has been developing solutions such as the Air-Land Fresh Lane between Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA), which enables the seamless movement of fruit, live seafood, and other temperature-sensitive goods across the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge under a single airway bill. These enhancements improve transit times and logistics integration for perishables, a segment Cathay Cargo views as a strong growth opportunity.
The airline is also placing emphasis on digitalisation and intermodal connectivity, aiming to streamline handling, documentation, and trucking solutions for specialist freight categories. Building these capabilities supports Cathay’s wider strategy to grow not only perishables but also other specialist cargo segments such as pharmaceuticals and high-value goods.
With these initiatives, Cathay Cargo is looking to enhance its role as a major air cargo provider in Asia and globally, leveraging technological and logistical investments to respond to evolving market demands and sustain long-term growth.
