Cover Inside Cathay Pacific’s new business class Aria Suite
Inside Cathay Pacific’s new business class Aria Suite
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Tatler travelled with Cathay Pacific in its new business class Aria Suite—made for those who appreciate a refined, elevated experience in the air
Privacy? Check. Exclusivity? Check. A tranquil space to work, relax and sleep—complete with a sliding door? Check.
In December, Tatler travelled to Tokyo with Cathay Pacific to experience the airline’s new, reimagined business class, named Aria Suite, as well as its new premium economy class—and, of course, to enjoy the Japanese capital in its early winter glory.
The trip came just weeks after the Aria Suite debuted on the Hong Kong-Tokyo Narita route in December, following its launch in October on the Hong Kong-Beijing route. It expanded to Shanghai and Taipei in November; then, in January, the suite was introduced on the Hong Kong-London route; it will be progressively introduced on other long-haul routes.
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Frequent business class travellers might wonder what’s different about Aria Suite, which is being retrofitted on Cathay’s Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The suite door is the star of the show—it marks the first time the Hong Kong flagship carrier has introduced this feature in its business class, meaning you have your very own, comfortably enclosed pod (something not currently available in the airline’s first class). There are elevated versions of features luxury travellers appreciate in—and even come to expect of—a business class seat: its transformation into a fully flat bed and a movable suite divider for those in the centre seats are de rigueur; and the 24-inch, 4K, ultra-high-definition touchscreen, which pairs with passengers’ Bluetooth headphones, is the largest the airline has offered to date.
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There are also lots of small, thoughtful touches. A console by the seat has a built-in wireless charger as well as a drawer, made in response to passengers’ feedback that they wanted a space to place personal items. There is a unit next to the leg rest made for your shoes; the tray table can be adjusted as you please, instead of just in fixed positions. The seat features suede walls, natural wool fabric and gold-accented buttons; its headrest, as well as the ottoman, which extends to create the bed, are made of premium leather.
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Meanwhile, the new premium economy class features a new seat design. It comes complete with generous space to recline and ample legroom, complemented by leather- padded footrests. New additions include adjustable leather headrests with “wings” on both sides, offering improved head and neck support—an upgrade not seen in the previous iteration of Cathay’s premium economy class. Passengers will appreciate expanded storage options, including a dedicated space for personal items.
For a journey as memorable as the destination, look no further.
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72 hours in Tokyo
Tokyo in early winter is a city of contrasts—think crisp air, bright, seasonal hues and palpable excitement in the air. Our three-day itinerary offered the opportunity to sample the city’s unique blend of traditional culture and modern vibrancy.
STAY
The Prince Park Tower Tokyo features rooms with views of the Tokyo Tower and your own jacuzzi. There are nine restaurants, five of which serve Japanese cuisine.
DINE
For a fine-dining option, look to Est at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi. It marries Japanese ingredients with French techniques. Dishes comprise fresh, simple ingredients and pairings.
EXPLORE
For those in search of a sanctuary right in the middle of the city, Happo-en (pictured), a 400-year-old Japanese garden, has centuries- old bonsai trees, a koi pond and seasonal foliage. Unlike more crowded tourist spots, it offers a quiet, contemplative experience steeped in history and natural beauty.
SHOP
Shopaholics should consider a trip to Mitsui Outlet Park Makuhari, which offers gourmet goods and luxury shopping. It is a Cathay partner—members of the airline’s airmiles programme can tot up the miles as they treat themselves.
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Andrea Lo was the Executive Editor of Tatler Hong Kong and Editor of Tatler Macau.
Born in Canada and raised in Hong Kong and England, she started her career in journalism in 2012.
Follow her on Instagram @andreastephenielo.
