Cathay Pacific's New Business Class: Aria Suites Unveiled with a Touch of Luxury

Cathay Pacific is set to launch its highly anticipated Aria Suites business class this week on a Boeing 777. After six years of development and a pandemic-induced pause, the airline plans to transform all 777s by 2027. The new design features 45 private suites, 48 premium economy recliners, and 268 economy seats. Initially, these planes will fly short routes like Beijing and Shanghai before tackling a premium long-range route to Europe, likely London, from January 2025. The aim is for daily flights to destinations like Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Dubai. The Aria Suites boast a unique design, blending privacy with comfort. Each seat is 50cm wide and features a sliding door, providing a real sense of personal space. The suite offers plenty of storage, including nooks for valuables and a wide pocket for shoes or tech. A 24" widescreen TV with 4K resolution adds to the in-flight experience, while noise-cancelling headphones and Bluetooth connectivity ensure top-notch audio. Additionally, the seats come with preset configurations for activities like watching movies or working, optimized with a single tap. One standout feature is the cabin's artful aesthetic, with dark wooden slats and a discreet kitchen galley. Each plane will also feature a piece of Hong Kong art at the rear. Small touches, like a touch-sensitive control panel and a customizable tray table, further enhance the journey.