Cathay Pacific Launches 80th Anniversary Celebrations

Cathay has today announced the kickoff of their ’80 Years Together’ anniversary celebrations, marking the carrier’s eight decades of service.

Cathay officially kicked off  their ‘80 Years Together’ anniversary celebrations at a special event, hosted by Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam (fifth from right), Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau (fifth from left), Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer Alex McGowan (fourth from left), and Chief Financial Officer Rebecca Sharpe (fourth from right).

On Tuesday (January 6, 2026), Cathay announced the official launch of their 80th anniversary celebrations, marking eight decades of moving their home city, people and global customers forward since 1946.  To usher in this milestone year, Cathay will be hosting a series of special events and initiatives throughout 2026, all anchored by the unifying theme of ‘80 Years Together.’  As part of the celebrations, Cathay unveiled a special aircraft livery on one of their long-haul Airbus A350 passenger aircraft at today’s launch event.  Adorned with the airline’s iconic ‘lettuce leaf sandwich’ design as well as the 80th anniversary year mark, the livery pays homage to Cathay Pacific’s green-and-white striped paint scheme, echoing the airline’s storied legacy while symbolizing continued growth and progress.

Speaking at today’s kickoff event, Cathay Group’s CEO, Ronald Lam said,

“Today marks not just an important milestone for Cathay, but a celebration of our ‘80 Years Together’ with Hong Kong.  Guided by our purpose to move people forward in life, Cathay and Hong Kong have grown together over the past eight decades, supporting each other through thick and thin.  From Kai Tak to Chek Lap Kok, whether it’s studying abroad, conducting business, exploring the world, reuniting with family, or delivering vital supplies at critical moments, Cathay has always stood with the people of Hong Kong through countless shared journeys and memories.

“Looking ahead, through our investment of well over HK$100 billion into our fleet, cabin products, lounges and digital innovation, Cathay will continue to elevate the customer experience as we strive towards our refreshed vision to become our customers’ most loved service brand.  At the same time, we remain steadfast in our commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s status as a leading international aviation hub.

“With the continued support and encouragement of our people, customers and partners, I am confident that Cathay, as an iconic Hong Kong brand, will soar to even greater heights in the years to come.”

Cathay Pacific Officially Kicks off 80th Anniversary Celebrations - Courtesy Cathay

Additionally, cabin crew donning Cathay Pacific’s vintage uniforms through various design eras also made a special appearance at the event.  Throughout 2026, around 1,000 to 2,000 of Cathay’s cabin crew and ground team members will wear and showcase these vintage uniforms at work, bringing the evolution of the Cathay brand to life.  A thoughtfully curated collection of merchandise reimagining iconic designs from different eras in Cathay’s storied history will also be launched progressively.  In addition, customers can look forward to a thoughtfully curated collection of merchandise inspired by the special liveries and iconic designs from different eras in Cathay’s storied history.

Source: Cathay