Cathay Pacific has officially launched its 80th anniversary celebrations as it enters 2026, with the milestone year to be celebrated through a series of special events, initiatives and activations under the theme “80 Years Together”.
The anniversary celebrations were officially kicked off at a special event hosted by Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam, alongside Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau, Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer Alex McGowan, and Chief Financial Officer Rebecca Sharpe.
As a prelude to the celebrations, Cathay unveiled a special aircraft livery on one of its long-haul Airbus A350 passenger aircraft. Featuring the airline’s iconic “lettuce leaf sandwich” design and the 80th anniversary year mark, the livery pays tribute to the much-loved green-and-white striped paint scheme while symbolising Cathay’s continued growth and progress. A second “lettuce leaf sandwich” livery on one of Cathay’s Boeing 747 freighters will also be revealed in the coming weeks.
“Today marks not just an important milestone for Cathay, but a celebration of our ‘80 Years Together’ with Hong Kong,” Lam said. “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.”
He reflected on Cathay’s long-standing role in connecting Hong Kong with the world. “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,” he said.
Looking ahead, Lam highlighted Cathay’s continued investment in the future. “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,” he said, while reaffirming the airline’s commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s position as a leading international aviation hub.
Adding to the sense of nostalgia, cabin crew wearing vintage uniforms from different design eras made a special appearance at the event. Throughout 2026, around 1,000 to 2,000 cabin crew and ground employees will showcase these uniforms at work, bringing the evolution of the Cathay brand to life.
Customers can also expect a merchandise collection inspired by iconic designs from Cathay’s history as the airline continues to unveil more initiatives during its landmark anniversary year.
