Cathay Pacific is rolling out another refresh for its Boeing 777-300ER first class cabins – the second since the suites debuted in 2007 – although this time around the changes are less sweeping.
Most of the changes focus on improvements to the inflight entertainment system, with a new 18.5-inch HD screen replacing the current standard-definition 17-inch panel (shown below in the current first class cabin).
The monitor will also be fitted with a new deployment mechanism allowing passengers to manoeuvre and secure the screen with only one hand. The screen should also more stable during turbulence.
This will be paired with a touchscreen video handset identical to that of Cathay's Airbus A350 business class (below).
The backend of the inflight entertainment system will be upgraded to sport the same modern Studio CX interface as the Airbus A350s.
Passengers will also be able to select Do Not Disturb Wake Up service functions, and quickly recharge their smartphones and tablets through a high-power USB port.
A spokesman for Cathay Pacific tells Australian Business Traveller that four Boeing 777-300ER jets will be upgraded by the end of 2017.
Cathay Pacific's current first class was introduced in 2007...
.... and in 2013 received a 'mid-life refresh' led by London-based architects Foster + Partners, which also designed Cathay's The Wing and The Cabin lounges at Hong Kong.
Despite being a decade old, Cathay's primo cabin is still regarded as among the world's better first class seats.
The Oneworld member has decided not to offer first class on its forthcoming Airbus A350-1000 jets due in 2018, but will use the arrival of the Boeing 777-9X to debut a new generation of first class suites and business class seats, cementing Boeing's advanced 777X series as the flagship of Cathay’s fleet for the next decade.
Read more: Cathay confirms new first class, business class for Boeing 777-9X
David Flynn is the Editor-in-Chief of Executive Traveller and a bit of a travel tragic with a weakness for good coffee, shopping and lychee martinis.
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
21 Dec 2012
Total posts 16
Who thinks these dog kennels with no view are a good idea?
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
09 Jun 2011
Total posts 88
I don't care which way I point but agree that if you can't see out the window when sitting in a window seat then there are serious problems. Agree that BA F is bad for this.
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
30 May 2014
Total posts 49
Any idea if they'll prioritise the upgraded aircraft on a particular route? I'm on HKG-LHR in May next year (first time - can't wait!!) and fingers are crossed I'll get an upgraded 77W.
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
06 May 2012
Total posts 178
I wonder have they upgraded many more aircraft. Doing in F to JFK in July and would be cool to get an upgraded plane
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