Could Cathay Pacific be considering increasing the seat density of economy class on its B777-300ER aircraft?
This was one of the topics raised in a passenger survey by the Hong Kong-based carrier.
A spokesperson for CX confirmed the use of the survey but stated that no formal decision had been made.
"To understand the needs of our customers as well as the trend and development of airline industry, Cathay Pacific periodically conducts research on different aspects of our offerings so as to continuously improve on our passenger services," said the spokesperson.
"One of our recent surveys covers a diverse area, including seat comfort, inflight entertainment, connectivity and inflight catering. Cathay Pacific at this stage has no decision to change the seat width and seat pitch of our 777 fleet."
The Oneworld member operates two different B777-300ER configurations. The 268-seat three class model consists of business, premium economy and economy, while the addition of a first class cabin in the four class model sees the number of economy seats reduced to 182. Both configurations sport a comfortable 3-3-3 (nine across) layout in economy.
Currently boasting one of the widest seats in economy (18.5 inches), should CX move towards a denser 3-4-3 (ten across) economy layout, this could see each seat slim down by up to an inch.
While this may sound an unpopular move, this would place the carrier alongside the vast majority of B777-300ER operators.
The nine-across B777-300ER economy layout is a scarce sight nowadays, as growing competition from low-cost carriers (which typically offer high density aircraft) have stifled carriers’ profit margins, leading many to increase overall aircraft capacity to accommodate more passengers.
For example, it was reported earlier that fellow Oneworld member, Qatar Airways had quietly taken delivery of its first B777-300ER sporting a ten-across economy layout, which it now operates on its Doha–London Heathrow route. The Gulf carrier has subsequently revealed that all future deliveries of the aircraft will offer the same layout.
The negative effects of packing in more seats could also be mitigated for passengers in the form of cheaper fares and a greater service offering.
For more information, visit cathaypacific.com
Clement Huang
