Cathay to tap Indian market

Premium Hong Kongbased airline Cathay Pacific has sharpened its focus on India as an increasing number of people shift towards air travel in the world’s second fastest-growing economy.

“Our operations in India, in particular Hyderabad, is very encouraging because of our connectivity as wide as 170 destinations in 41 countries,” Toby Smith, general manager (product) at Cathay Pacific, told a select group of media persons during a recent familiarisation tour in Hong Kong.

He said that the airline has introduced new premium economy class and long-haul economy class, which would redefine luxury, for the passengers traveling from the city. “Presently, the premium airline flies to Hong Kong four times a week from city,” he added.

“The new premium economy class is a perfect solution for passengers, who look for more comfort than the economy class but definitely at a lesser price than that of the business class,” Mr Smith added.

The quieter and more spacious cabin accommodates 26 to 34 seats per air craft with pitch of each seat being six inches more than the economy class and having wider and bigger recline.

“Meal served here is almost like the one served in the business class,” said Mr Smith.

Each seat will have a large meal table, cocktail table, foot-rest, in-seat power outlet and a 10.6 inches personal television. There is also multi-port connector for personal devices and extra personal stowage space.