John O'Ceallaigh, The Daily Telegraph, July 31, 2013
Following the unveiling of its new interiors by Singapore Airlines, Hong Kong-based airline Cathay Pacific has revealed its ‘newly refreshed’ first-class product.
A reworking, rather than replacement, of the first-class suite launched in 2007, the modified product was developed in collaboration with Foster + Partners. The London-based architects designed Cathay Pacific’s Hong Kong International Airport lounge The Wing, and design elements in the lounge are referenced in the updated suites. In practice that means a comparable colour scheme and the use of similar materials and fabrics – as in the first-class section of the lounge, the suite’s outer surface is a glossy grey, leather is used throughout.
Members of the airline’s Marco Polo Club frequent-flyer programme were also asked for their input into the redesign, which saw the introduction of a more adjustable meal table, more spacious personal closets and expanded console departments so that personal items could be kept to hand throughout the flight.
Less subtle modifications include the introduction of a new 4.3’’ LCD touch-screen controller to control lighting and seat position in each suite. High-performing BOSE headphones are provided to ensure the entertainment system can be enjoyed without external interruption and new multi-port connectors will allow passengers to connect their own devices to the system and watch video through their personal television. For those who’d prefer to sleep through their flight, comfort has been enhanced with the introduction of improved bedding, pyjamas from Hong Kong label PYE and the provision of toiletries by Australian brand Aesop.
The first Boeing 777-3000ER aircraft with the upgraded first-class product entered service at the end of this month and the entire cabin refresh project is scheduled to be completed by the third quarter of 2014. The First Class cabins in Cathay Pacific’s Boeing 747-400 aircraft are not included in the upgrade project as the fleet is in the process of being retired.
Private jets' incredible interiors in pictures
Cathay Pacific's refreshed first-class product. Image: Cathay Pacific
