oneworld

Seattle will be Cathay Pacific Airways’ next long-haul destination, starting next March, as Hong Kong’s flagship carrier launches more new routes to avoid direct competition with rivals on existing flight destinations. The loss-making airline teased social media users on Wednesday with a crossword puzzle featuring the names of American cities, accompanied by the question: “Where are we going next?” Cathay Pacific’s ongoing expansion is designed to boost revenue from new markets. Existing destinations in Europe and the US have been the subject of intense competition through cheaper air fares offered by rivals. The latest move by Asia’s largest international airline follows an announcement by Delta Air Lines, one of the big three US carriers, that it will stop flying between Seattle and Hong Kong, paving the way for a new entrant.<br/>

The concept of an upgraded economy service is increasingly spreading throughout the industry to improve the passenger experience at a cost that doesn’t burden the airlines or the passengers themselves. This is especially valuable to passengers at a time when seating is getting tighter, complimentary ancillaries are becoming more limited, and as travellers increasingly seek a flying experience suited to their needs –– without being required to pay business class dollars, even if it does cost a little extra out of pocket. American Airlines has addressed this growing demand with its new Main Cabin Extra product, which, according to the airline, gives passengers “a little more of everything.” It offers seats with up to six inches more legroom than in traditional economy seats, as well as earlier access to overhead bin space. Passengers with Main Cabin Extra seats are among the first to board, with Preferred Group 5 boarding and are permitted one complimentary carry-on bag. And on routes that serve alcohol, they receive complimentary beer, wine, and spirits. On some routes, additional food and drink are free, as well.<br/>