When the Flight Becomes the Destination: Inside Cathay Pacific’s Luxe New Travel Experience

What if your next great adventure began before you even touched down? In this special edition of W’s Insider’s Guide, we’re turning our attention skyward—to a travel experience that’s as unforgettable as the destination itself. Onboard a Cathay Pacific flight, time spent above the clouds is just another opportunity to be moved.

For the seasoned traveler who considers their journey more than a means to an end, the Aria Suite — launching on select Cathay Pacific routes this year — delivers a five-star, fully immersive experience from the moment you settle in. Whether you’re bound for the vibrant streets of Hong Kong or beyond, here are our insider travel tips to help you unwind in the best seat in the sky.

Business Class, Redefined

With its unparalleled sense of privacy and thoughtful design, Cathay Pacific’s Aria Suite represents a whole new experience for travelers. Tucked into a reverse herringbone layout, each suite features a door, an oversized fully lie-flat bed with 400 thread-count cotton linens, and customizable mood lighting, creating a personal sanctuary you can tailor to your needs—whether you’re working, unwinding, or drifting off mid-flight.

Immediately upon arriving, you’ll notice sophisticated touches like wool upholstery, leather-trimmed ottomans, and suede-paneled walls. When you sit down, you’ll be greeted with an amenity kit filled with sustainable Bamford skincare products to get you feeling refreshed right from takeoff.

A 24-inch 4K Ultra HD screen—the largest the airline has ever offered—transforms your space into a private cinema, and Bluetooth connectivity means you can pair your own headphones for a bespoke viewing experience. Meanwhile, a versatile armrest and bi-fold meal table ensure every inch of space is as functional as it is elegant.

Indulge Your Culinary Creativity

The airline’s inflight cuisine program is a tribute to its roots, with items ranging from irresistible streetside snacks to Cantonese gastronomy. Cathay Pacific partners with Michelin-starred restaurants to design menus that will tantalize your tastebuds—like delicate dim sum, claypot rice, and the airline’s signature Hong Kong-style egg tart.

Even at 35,000 feet, every dish is restaurant-worthy: thoughtfully plated, expertly seasoned, and served on fine tableware with precision and care.

Sip On Something Truly Special

Cathay Pacific’s ever-evolving wine list is curated by experts who appreciate the beauty of a well-poured glass. With everything from rare vintages to contemporary natural selections, the offerings feel as considered as the most elegant wine bar on the ground.

Prefer something sans-alcohol? Recharge with an herbal JING tea or Cathay Pacific’s bespoke wellness tonic, which stimulates your metabolism to help you take off on the right foot.

Immerse Yourself In Cultural Excellence

Throughout the Business class cabin, Cathay Pacific’s curated collection of artwork will lend a sense of discovery to your journey. Created by artists who share a deep connection with Hong Kong, expect each piece to transform you before you’ve even touched down.

When you’ve satisfied your artistic curiosity, turn your attention to Cathay Pacific’s extensive inflight entertainment suite. Their film library includes the latest Hollywood releases, award-winning Asian cinema, and even complete TV box sets. With an intuitive interface and dark mode for tired eyes, the experience is immersive without being overstimulating.

More Than A Flight

Cathay Pacific reimagines what air travel can feel like: refined, rejuvenating, and richly considered. Every moment on board is a chance to be moved to Hong Kong and beyond, with the opportunity to embrace a unique state of calm along the way. With a journey this unforgettable, the rest of your itinerary is just a bonus.