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Welcome to Pacific Travel

Pacific Travel Services, is a full service travel agency based in Glendale, CA. At Pacific Travel we strive to plan and accommodate to all your needs as you travel across every square inch of the globe. As a full service travel agency, Pacific Travel also specializes in creating personalized vacation packages and escorted tours to destinations anywhere in the world. Our travel professionals are prepared to work with you to put together an exclusive package just for you. Pacific Travel provides travel services for many Southern Californian companies. We'll take care of the E-Tickets, hotel and car reservations, all with your best interest and enjoyment in mind. We have 24/7 access to all reservations and ticketing services to provide you with any changes you might need throughout your business trip. We look forward to helping you journey!

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Asia Pacific Gen-Zs and Millenials Seek to Unlock Value and Maximize Travel Experience With One Loyalty Program

Regional survey by marriott bonvoy uncovers key traits of travel-oriented, value-driven gen-zs and millennials.

A survey by Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program of Marriott International, has found that a majority of Gen Zs and Millennials in Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) prefer the simplicity of belonging to one comprehensive loyalty travel program.

While 60% of APEC Gen Zs and Millennials are actively subscribed to loyalty programs, the challenge of juggling several loyalty programs has led most (57%) to seek out one program that meets all their travel needs. Marriott Bonvoy carried out the survey of 1,000 respondents across ten markets in APEC to better understand the shifting attitudes of Millennials and Gen Zs and their travel behaviors. The survey identified an emerging generation of travel-focused, value-driven " Savvy Explorers " in APEC who seek to maximize their travel dollars and unique travel experiences.

Travel in 2024 is a priority for Gen Zs and Millennials: 73% report their intentions to take at least two trips in the next 12 months and 91% plan to spend the same, if not more, on their trips compared to the year before. Travel is viewed as an essential lifestyle component, and most are willing to reduce everyday spending on dining out (60%), shopping sprees (57%) and their daily coffee (54%) so as to spend more on a holiday.

“Survey results suggest that Gen Zs and Millennials in APEC are purposefully strategizing how they can channel value from their everyday spend toward rewarding travel experiences. They also prefer to be part of only one all-encompassing loyalty travel program which fulfills their needs. To this end, Marriott Bonvoy – which gives members access to over 30 brands in 10,000 destinations -- is well positioned to deliver greater value and unlock more experiences for Gen Zs and Millennials,” says John Toomey, Marriott International’s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China .

“As testament to the program’s appeal, we have seen Marriott Bonvoy’s membership base in APEC grow by more than 50% since 2019. What’s more encouraging is that our members are highly active. They earned 40% more points in 2023 compared to 2022, and are putting their points to good use, with points redemptions increasing by more than 55% in the same period,” he reveals.

The trend of greater member growth and activity extends to the Marriott Bonvoy app. APEC member enrolment via digital channels grew by more than 25%, with mobile app downloads and active users more than doubling in 2023 compared to pre-pandemic levels.

The regional survey also uncovered notable trends amongst Gen Zs and Millennials across the 10 APEC countries. Market-specific trends can be found in Annex A.

Travel value unlocked through everyday spend Savvy Explorers take considered steps to unlock travel value through everyday spend. Leveraging on their familiarity with loyalty programs, APEC’s Gen Z and Millennials employ varied tactics to maximize their travel rewards: four in five say they have gone out of their way to use a travel-linked credit card for everyday purchases, and 67% actively use a travel loyalty program to book and redeem local experiences and staycations.

This trend is supported by usage behaviors of Marriott Bonvoy members in APEC. They accumulated points from stays across more than 8,800 Marriott International properties globally, and through everyday spend. Redemption for hotel stays in 2023 registered a 130% increase compared to pre-pandemic times, accounting for the majority of redemptions, followed by points-to-miles conversions on partner airlines.

Hotels become a key destination to explore Hotel experience is key to winning the hearts and dollars of the Gen Z and Millennial segment, with 99% of respondents believing their hotel choice can make or break their holiday. Hotels are also increasingly viewed as a key destination for exploration, going beyond the role of ‘accommodation’. Nearly four in five respondents expect their hotel to provide curated local programming and experiences, whilst 84% prefer to stay at a hotel with designs and activities reflective of its destination.

The recent debut of Moxy Hotels – noted for its hallmark playful nature, innovative design and contemporary amenities – in key APEC markets exemplifies Marriott International’s commitment to continuously bring new hospitality experiences to the region.

Despite a desire to maximize their travel budgets where they can, their hotel is one area that APEC’s Gen Z and Millennials are willing to invest extra travel dollars towards. Top motivations for new-generation travelers to splurge include the hotel’s room offerings (48%) and location (42%). Whilst amenities remain key considerations, these guests value a seamless travel experience, with mobile-first customer service (61%), reliable WiFi (68%) and flexible check-out (64%) outpacing traditional benefits like lounge access (42%).

Destination ‘dupes’ fuel intra-regional travel demand International travel has returned but APEC’s Gen Z and Millennials remain committed to destinations closer to home. While iconic holiday locations like the Swiss Alps and Bora Bora maintain their appeal, 55% are opting for destinations within the region that provide a similar experience. These so-called “destination dupes” are fast gaining traction amongst this segment because they allow Gen Zs and Millennials to stretch their travel expenses (69%), discover something new (63%) and are easily accessible (62%).

As a reflection of robust intra-regional travel demand in 2023, Marriott International saw over 60% of bookings in APEC coming from within the region.

Corporate backpackers on the rise Gen Zs and Millennials are also taking bleisure travel up a notch by capitalizing on the opportunity of a business trip to embark on multi-destination tours. In addition to extending their travel plans (68%), 84% plan to explore nearby cities and countries as part of their post-work itinerary.

With more than 560 properties across 24 brands in 22 countries and territories in APEC to choose from, Marriott International offers customers a myriad of options to mix work with pleasure.

Off-peak travel maximizes destination experience Gen Zs and Millennials are also carefully planning when to travel to maximize their trip experience. The majority (71%) of Gen Z and Millennials say they would opt to travel during off-peak seasons so as to beat the crowds and get more out of their trip. 67% feel they can do more during low-peak seasons, and 77% leave their holidays feeling more relaxed and rejuvenated.

Where Marriott Bonvoy Can Take You Marriott Bonvoy allows members to earn when they stay or spend at Marriott International’s growing portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands across 139 countries and territories, and in over 8,800 properties. In APEC, members can benefit from the program’s key strategic partnerships with Singapore Airlines and co-branded credits cards in Japan, Korea and India. With Marriott Bonvoy Moments, members can get access to once-in-lifetime experiences such the opportunity to get closer to the action with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team at the Singapore Grand Prix.

Note to Editor Findings are from a commissioned survey by Marriott International conducted in April 2024 on 1000 Gen Z (18 – 24 years old) and Millennials (25 – 41 years old) based in Japan, Korea, India, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and the Philippines, who would budget for their own travels.

The term ‘Savvy Explorers’ refers to Gen Z and millennial travelers who continue to prioritize travel as a key part of their lifestyle and are always on the lookout for ways in which they can maximize and value add to their planned trips through curated accommodations, key experiences and new destinations.

Refer to Annex A for additional data on the preferences of new generation travelers across the APEC region.

Annex A: 10 Fun Facts About New-generation Travelers Across the APEC Region

• Most likely to sacrifice dining out for a holiday are Australian (76%), Japanese (74%) and Indonesian (68%) travelers. Despite their renown for culinary diversity, majority would prefer to reduce eating out over giving up other everyday luxuries like monthly subscriptions.
• Most frequent travelers in APEC are Southeast Asia’s Gen Z and Millennials, with over a third planning to take more than three trips in the next 12 months. Indonesian (51%), Thai (39%) and Filipino (34%) travelers set to outpace others within the region.
• Top intra-regional travelers are Japanese (71%), Thai (69%) and South Korean (66%) Gen Z and Millennials who prefer holidaying closer to home. However, bucking the trend are Indian and Filipino travelers, with over 60% opting for faraway destinations.
• Top off-peak travelers are Japanese (87%), Australian (81%) and Singaporean (79%) Millennials and Gen Zs. Interestingly, set to drive the high seasons are Indian travelers, with 58% preferring to travel during peak periods.
• Most discerning when choosing their hotel are Indonesian, Thai and Vietnamese Gen Z and Millennials, with an overwhelming 90% preferring hotel programming and design that are reflective of the local destination and/or are environmentally friendly.
• Top motivators to splurge on travel for Australian, Indonesian and Singaporean Gen Z and Millennials are quality factors such as hotel reputation and location. In contrast, Japanese and Vietnamese travelers place greater weightage on experiences such as in-hotel dining (Japan: 59%, Vietnam: 47%), whilst Thais prioritize hotel aesthetics (41%).
• Top countries for business travel include Vietnam (85%), India (81%) and Indonesia (78%). Over 80% are also likely to extend their business trips for leisure (Vietnam: 82%, India: 83%, Indonesia: 80%).
• Most valuable travel benefits to APEC’s Gen Z and Millennials are elevated hotel experiences like complimentary dining, spa and room upgrades. Nearly two in three Indian travelers (67%) were also likely to redeem unique travel experiences, whilst over half of Thai travelers (51%) would prefer to receive exclusive merchandise.

About Marriott Bonvoy ® Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 31 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com .

Media Contact Mabel Lee Director of Communications Marriott International, Asia Pacific excluding China [email protected]

Kiran Hans Sr. Manager, Communications Marriott International, Asia Pacific excluding China [email protected]

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Special Golden Week activities to check out at Bios on the Hill in Okinawa

(Bios on the Hill)

As Golden Week, a series of national holidays similar to spring break, kicks off on mainland Japan and Okinawa, it’s time to enjoy the weather and some outdoor activities.

Bios on the Hill in Uruma is hosting special programs for the holiday week including discounts, water buffalo rides, relaxing hammocks and seasonal flowers.

From May 3 through May 6, kids can ride a water buffalo for 2,000 yen (about $13). If you’ve visited the park before you may be familiar with the usual tour of the park in a wagon pulled by these impressive giants. This experience, however, involves experiencing the tour while hitching a ride directly on the water buffalo. It’s a unique experience your kids will enjoy!

On May 5, the park is offering a 50% discount admission for kids in honor of Children’s Day. Take advantage to get out and enjoy Bios on the Hill and the discount also covers admission for the ship lake tour.

The park has hammocks set up for ultimate relaxation and visitors can also enjoy the seasonal cattleya and dendrobium orchids blooming now.

There are many activities to enjoy and this week will be a great time to head over to Bios on the Hill!

Bios on the Hill

GPS Coordinates: N 26.42171, E 127.79771

Admission fees (includes entry for lake ship ride): 2,200 yen for middle school students and above. 1,100 yen for those between 4 years of age and elementary school age.

Hours: 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (last admission at 4:15 p.m.)

Golden Week activities

Water Buffalo Ride

Date: May 3 – 6

Time: 9:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Fee: 2,000 yen

*Limited to those between 4 years of age and elementary school age.

Hammock for nap

Date: April 20 – May 6

Orchid presentation

Date: April 27 – May 6

Workshop on transplanting Dendrobium

Time: 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. (one hour each)

Fee: 4,400 yen

*The number of participants is limited to 15.

* Call 098-965-7300 for reservation. (Participation without reservation can be accepted if spots are not filled up.

Special offer for the park’s anniversary

Date: April 29

Visitors will have a chance to win an orchid. A free water buffalo ride will be offered to kids between four years of age and elementary school age.

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Quick Trips

Star in your own night out at this movie-themed bar in tokyo.

The Whales of August, named after the 1987 drama, is a movie-themed bar in Tokyo where customers can order drinks named after their favorite films. (Kelly Agee/Stars and Stripes)

In an alleyway just about a block from the world’s busiest street crossing, the Shibuya Scramble in Tokyo, cinephiles will find a bar built just for them.

The Whales of August, named after the 1987 movie starring Bette Davis, Lillian Gish and Vincent Price, is a movie-themed bar where customers can order drinks named after their favorite films, from “The Shining” to “Love Actually.”

Finding the bar isn’t hard. It’s in an old, wooden building and sticks out from its neighbors. Inside, however, it’s a much nicer experience than some of the surrounding establishments.

A poster for Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” greets patrons at the Whales of August in Tokyo. (Kelly Agee/Stars and Stripes)

The interior is covered with movie posters, including “The Sting” starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford and the Stanley Kubrick classics “2001: A Space Odyssey” and “A Clockwork Orange.”

Movie themes play all night. It was fun to make a game of matching the songs with their films. My friend and I identified the music from “Spider-Man,” “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” and “The Exorcist.”

The Whales of August can seat around 100 people, and there is a 500 yen — about $3.37 — table charge. Get there early in the evening, especially on weekends, when it fill ups by 9 p.m. Reservations are not accepted.

Patrons can order drinks named after their favorite films at Whales of August in Tokyo's Shibuya district. (Kelly Agee/Stars and Stripes)

English menus are available, and it is massive, with more than 100 movie-themed cocktails. Beside each drink is a code: S for short, L for long or F for frozen.

My favorite drink, for 750 yen, was named after “Amadeus,” the 1984 fictionalized version of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s life. This drink includes chocolate liqueur from Mozart Distillery, based in Salzburg, Austria. Very sweet and perfect for chocolate fans.

The Clockwork Orange drink from the Whales of August bar in Shibuya. (Kelly Agee/Stars and Stripes)

I also ordered a Shawshank Redemption for 900 yen, a frozen blue liqueur drink that tastes like sherbert; and a Clockwork Orange for 939 yen, also frozen liqueur, orange flavored and topped with more oranges.

The kitchen serves a tasty beef stew with mushroom for 1,200 yen and boiled sausage and prosciutto, both for 939 yen.

The Whales of August is a must for cinephiles; the drink service is its own experience, and yet so affordable.

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I visited a Cathay Pacific first-class lounge in Hong Kong. It was so incredible I forgot I was even in an airport.

Posted: April 22, 2024 | Last updated: April 22, 2024

• I visited The Pier, a Cathay Pacific first-class lounge at Hong Kong International Airport. 
• The lounge was one of the best I've ever visited and had tons of seating, a restaurant, and a spa. 
• I'd visit the lounge again — and I get why it's been called one of the best in the world.

On a recent visit to Hong Kong , I visited The Pier, a Cathay Pacific first-class lounge, before my flight to New York.

The flagship lounge has a restaurant, stunning bar area, nap rooms , free WiFi, and complimentary massages. It's accessible for passengers flying first class on Cathay Pacific or another Oneworld carrier or for those with status as an Oneworld Emerald member.

Airport lounges have been touted by many as the secret to making air travel far less miserable, and with ones as nice as this I can see why.

Here's what my experience was like at The Pier, one of Cathay Pacific's first-class lounges at Hong Kong International Airport.

I didn't have to wait to get into the lounge, which felt premium as soon as I walked in.

Cathay Pacific has two lounges for first-class fliers in this airport — The Wing and The Pier — but the latter was closest to me, so I chose to visit it during my travels.

According to Cathay Pacific's website, the lounge is available from 5:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. daily. It's located in terminal one, near gate 63.

To enter the lounge, I scanned my boarding pass at the check-in station. Unlike other lounges that I've been to, there was no line or overcrowding. I was able to walk right in.

From the moment I entered, it felt like a premium airport lounge experience .

My first stop was the lounge's restaurant.

Everything at The Pier's restaurant was made-to-order. Menu options included a burger, fish, and ramen — all cooked to your liking.

The airline has a partnership with the Rosewood Hotel in Hong Kong, so there were also dishes from the collaboration available.

Guests in the lounge get access to both the regular menu and the collaboration menu, with each offering some seasonal options that change regularly.

Although I'm not typically one to order airport food, this was exceptional, and I'm glad I did.

I've been to plenty of lounges, and this was by far the best lounge food I have ever had.

I liked that the restaurant didn't have a buffet like many other lounges, so there were no people grabbing or picking at communal food. Instead, I felt like I was like dining in an actual restaurant with menus, waiters, and service directly to my table.

I ordered a specialty drink and pasta dish from the Rosewood collaboration. Both were delicious.

Everything I sampled was cooked to perfection, and it felt like I was dining in a fancy restaurant — not just a few yards from my gate. The service was impeccable, too.

Admittedly, I'd visit the lounge again just to try a few more of the tempting menu options.

After eating, I explored the lounge. It was spacious and luxurious.

Onyx stone covered the wall in the main hallway, and there was ample seating space wherever I ventured.

The furnishings throughout the space were upscale and the lounge felt like a luxury hotel . At times, I didn't even feel like I was in an airport.

The lounge had two main seating spaces, and the one by the bar felt ultra cozy.

There was no shortage of seating space in this first-class lounge.

Large couches, clusters of chairs, workstations, and other seating options offered plenty of spaces to suit a variety of travelers' needs.

A fully stocked bar was at the center of one lounge, and it had eveything from coffee to cocktails.

The bar served specialty coffee drinks, sodas, waters, and an abundance of cocktails, wines, and spirits.

Some of the cocktails were from the Rosewood Hong Kong collaboration with its bar, DarkSide, which is touted as one of the 50 best bars in Asia .

I ordered coffee and a few glasses of wine while I was waiting for my flight. The bartender was super attentive.

Since the lounge is so exclusive, there wasn't a wait for drinks like you often experience in other airport lounges . The service also felt more personalized.

Another lounge space felt like it was made for larger groups.

A separate seating area was a bit more spread out and featured larger tables in the center of the chairs.

The space also had large picture windows that overlooked taxiing planes outside.

There were also gorgeous shower suites, complete with luxury amenities.

The shower suites had to be reserved with an attendant. However, there were plenty of them, and they seemed easy to access.

Each suite seemed well stocked with a blow-dryer, plush towels, and other essential toiletries. They were easily the nicest airport shower suites I have ever seen. I've never been one to shower in lounges, but I would absolutely shower here on a long layover or between connecting flights.

My favorite part of the lounge experience was the complimentary massages.

The massage space was dimly lit and quiet. If time slots were available, I could reserve a complimentary foot massage, neck/back massage, or head massage in 15-minute increments with a masseuse.

There were also day suites available.

The lounge features eight day suites, which each have a daybed, reading lamp, and shades that fully close on both sides for privacy.

I loved the layout of these spaces and if I had a long layover or a late-night flight, I think these private sleep spaces would be an awesome spot to take a nap.

The bathrooms were equally as impressive.

Bathrooms featured luxury bath amenities, well-lit mirrors, and spacious stalls.

The snack bar also felt luxurious.

The lounge had a snack room of sorts with cheese, fruit, crackers, and many other snacks. It also had a fridge with water, sodas, and other bottled drinks. Personally, I'd opt for the dining room since the made-to-order food was phenomenal. However, this seemed to be a great spot to grab a snack if you weren't too hungry. The room felt like a luxury snack bar.

Cathay Pacific's The Pier was easily one of the best first-class lounges I’ve ever been to.

Overall, I loved spending time in the lounge. The space had tons of amenities and was a great place to relax in during my connection.

I can see why many publications have dubbed it one of the best airport lounges in the world .

The Pier was easily one of the nicest lounges I've ever visited and is somewhere I see myself visiting again — hopefully soon.

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A quiet sanctuary to unwind from the overwhelming sights and sounds of the airport. A place with a relaxing atmosphere and modern business amenities to help you focus and catch up on work. Delicious cocktails and dishes to whet your appetite for a premium inflight dining experience . As you upgrade your Cathay membership status, your journey is elevated along with it, granting you access to benefits such as access to The Pier, Business lounge when you become a Silver member. 

No matter how you want to spend your time waiting for your boarding call, all your pre-flight needs will be taken care of at The Pier, Business lounge .

Location and access

It’s noon on a weekday at Hong Kong International Airport . After passing through security and immigration, the hustle and bustle of travellers making their way to their gate is in full force. Descending the escalator near Gate 65, there’s a sense of calm at the entrance of The Pier, Business – Cathay Pacific’s largest airport lounge in the world. 

Cathay Pacific First class and Business passengers, as well as select Cathay and oneworld partner programme members who meet the admittance requirements , can simply hand over their boarding pass to one of the staff members at the reception counter and enter the lounge.  

Overall layout and design

Spanning more than 35,000 square feet, the sprawling lounge designed by the London-based Studioilse features a series of interconnected spaces arranged in a long and thin layout. Once inside, you’re greeted by an inviting atmosphere, with a series of wooden or stone furniture and design elements, nature-inspired colour tones and artworks, and warm soft lighting. These factors all come together to offer a sense of elegant comfort that you’d find at a tasteful upscale hotel. 

The lounge has enough seats to accommodate more than 500 travellers at any given time. During lunch hour, the lounge is buzzing with activity, but it doesn’t feel crowded at all. Instead, it feels like you’re part of a choreographed dance, with travellers flowing in and out of each section of the lounge at a relaxed pace.

Food and drink

The quality of the food and beverage options is one of the most important elements of an airport lounge, and at The Pier, Business, you’re spoilt for choice. Upon entering, you’ll encounter the Food Hall – the first of four main dining concepts within the lounge. Designed as a place to grab a quick bite, this gourmet food market serves a range of Western dishes, from wood-fired oven pizza to fresh salads, warming soups and indulgent pasta. After building a plate of your favourite comfort foods, settle onto one of the wooden picnic benches or high countertop chairs and enjoy the meal.

Next, you’ll find the Bar, a cosy lounge where you can enjoy a cheeky cocktail or a glass of wine or champagne, as well as signature non-alcoholic drinks like the Cathay Delight (a delicious combination of milk, coconut milk, kiwi juice and mint leaves) before your flight. Seating extends all the way to the far end of the lounge, where floor-to-ceiling windows span the entire length of this section, offering plenty of natural light and panoramic views of the runway. Single armchairs and two- and three-seater leather sofas are thoughtfully arranged throughout the area so that solo travellers can get lost in the pages of their book while charging up their electronic devices, and small groups can chat about their upcoming trip over refreshments. 

The Noodle Bar is the busiest space at The Pier, Business – and with good reason. The alluring aromas of Hong Kong classics as well as your favourite Chinese dishes hit your senses as you enter this bustling dining room, where you’ll find booths for two to four people, as well as bar seats and communal tables that are ideal for individuals and larger groups respectively. In addition to a buffet spread of fried rice, steamed pork buns and other staples, don’t miss the made-to-order signature wonton noodle soup, dan dan noodles in a rich spicy peanut broth, Hong Kong-style roast meats with rice, and other delights that truly reflect the airline’s heritage. 

Heading deeper into the lounge, you’ll find the Teahouse, a quiet sanctuary for tea connoisseurs to slow down and enjoy a curated selection of JING’s loose-leaf teas , ranging from Japanese sencha and aged pu-erh to Earl Grey and peppermint. Simply choose your favourite tea or be guided by the recommendation of a tea specialist, pick up a few treats from the baked goods counter, park yourself at a seat along the leather bench or small round tables, and enjoy a moment of peace.

Focus and relax

Besides dining, the lounge also has a range of well-appointed features and amenities that will help ensure your trip starts on the right note. Looking for a quiet space to get some work done? The Bureau near the lounge entrance has workstations equipped with iMacs and printers that are perfect for this. Travellers in transit, meanwhile, can stay refreshed before their next flight by taking a shower at one of the 14 shower suites, all of which are fitted with Bamford bath amenities. And if you have a few hours to kill before the next leg of your journey, head to the Relaxation Room. With more than a dozen semi-private resting pods featuring plush daybeds and dimmed lighting, it’s the ideal place to rest up before you continue your journey.

Cathay Pacific’s traffic figures for March 2024 show strong demand for travel

Cathay Pacific released its traffic figures for March 2024, which showed strong demand for travel from Hong Kong driven by the Easter holiday period, and travel to Hong Kong supported by the various exhibitions and events held in the city.

Cathay Pacific carried a total of 1,883,404 passengers in March 2024, an increase of 42.4% compared with March 2023. The month’s revenue passenger kilometres (RPKs) increased 38.1% year on year. Passenger load factor decreased by 6.6 percentage points to 83.8%, while available seat kilometres (ASKs) increased by 48.9% year on year. In the first three months of 2024, the number of passengers carried increased by 55.7% to a total of 5,401,778, against a 56.4% increase in ASKs and a 47.7% increase in RPKs, as compared with the same period for 2023.

The airline carried 134,551 tonnes of cargo in March 2024, an increase of 10.5% compared with March 2023. The month’s cargo revenue tonne kilometres (RFTKs) increased 4.1% year on year. The cargo load factor decreased by 4.3 percentage points to 62.7%, while available cargo tonne kilometres (AFTKs) increased by 11.2% year on year. In the first three months of 2024, the tonnage increased by 11.1% to a total of 356,380 tonnes, against a 15.2% increase in AFTKs and a 6.2% increase in RFTKs, as compared with the same period for 2023.

Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “Our travel business performed well in March with healthy demand across our services both leading up to and during the Easter holiday period. Student traffic from the United Kingdom was particularly strong ahead of Easter, and outbound and return traffic in general surged over the holidays.

“Demand in the premium cabins both to and from Hong Kong also remained strong. This was driven by the various exhibitions and trade shows that took place in the city in March, most notably the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and Art Basel. We were also pleased to resume our direct flights between Bangkok and Singapore in March, which have been popular with customers.

“Cargo demand was stronger in March, with our tonnage up by 26% compared with the previous month and up by 11% compared to March 2023. Cargo demand out of Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland picked up quickly after factories re-opened following the Chinese New Year holidays, and we observed an increase in e-commerce and express shipments due to the end-of-quarter rush.

“Looking ahead to the Chinese Mainland’s forthcoming Labour Day ‘Golden Week’ holiday period, we are seeing a healthy increase in travel demand from the Chinese Mainland to Hong Kong, as well as to regional destinations via the Hong Kong hub. We will be increasing our  Chinese Mainland frequencies to around 200 round-trip flights per week as a Group during the Golden Week to cater for this strong demand.

“In terms of cargo, we expect e-commerce demand to remain strong and for overall air cargo demand to be stable on long-haul routes.

“As the largest cargo operator at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), we also congratulate HKIA on once again being named the world’s busiest cargo airport in 2023 – a status it has held for 13 of the past 14 years. We are extremely proud to be part of this incredible success story, and remain committed to continuing to work together with all stakeholders to further grow Hong Kong as the world’s leading air cargo hub.”

The full March figures and glossary.

Cathay Pacific to bring even more experience enhancements designed with customers in…

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Reporting by Ben Blanchard and Ryan Woo; Additional reporting by Yimou Lee in Taipei; Graphic by Jackie Gu; Editing by Christopher Cushing, Jamie Freed and Angus MacSwan

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One dead and seven missing following Japanese navy helicopter crash in Pacific Ocean

One person has died and seven others are missing, after two Japanese navy helicopters are believed to have collided before crashing the Pacific Ocean, during a nighttime training.

Two Japanese navy helicopters, each carrying four crew members, crashed into the Pacific Ocean south of Tokyo during nighttime training, potentially colliding with one another. 

Defense Minister Minoru Kihara reported that one body has been found, with rescuers currently searching for the remaining seven missing crew members.

The two SH-60K choppers from the Maritime Self-Defense Force lost contact late Saturday near Torishima island, approximately 600 kilometers (370 miles) south of Tokyo. 

The cause of the crash remains unknown, although officials suspect a probable collision between the two helicopters, as per Kihara.

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During the rescue operation, investigators retrieved a flight data recorder, a blade from each helicopter, and debris believed to be from both aircraft, confirming that the SH-60Ks were likely in close proximity before the incident.

In response to the missing crew members, search and rescue operations have been intensified, with 12 warships and seven aircraft deployed. Japanese coast guard vessels and aircraft are also participating in the extensive search effort.

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