Story and image from Cathay Group
Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “March was a month of contrast. On the one hand, the ongoing situation in the Middle East shifted demand towards other aviation hubs and generated robust volumes on our flights. On the other hand, the price of jet fuel has increased significantly since the start of March and this is placing huge cost pressure on airlines around the world. According to data published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global average jet fuel price has increased to US$197.83 per barrel for the week ending 10 April 2026, versus US$99.40 per barrel for the week ending 27 February 2026.
Cathay Pacific carried 24% more passengers in March 2026 compared with March 2025, while Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) increased by 9%. In the first three months of 2026, the number of passengers carried increased by 20% compared with the same period for 2025.
Cathay Cargo carried 11% more cargo in March 2026 than in March 2025, while Available Freight Tonne Kilometres (AFTKs) increased by 2%. In the first three months of 2026, the total tonnage increased by 8% compared with the same period for 2025.
HK Express carried more than 750,000 passengers in March 2026, an increase of 22% year on year, while Available Seat Kilometers (ASKs) grew by 12%. In the first three months of 2026, the number of passengers carried increased by 18% compared with the same period for 2025.