Cathay Pacific (CX)

With the introduction of four weekly flights to Kathmandu on Dragon Air since December 2007, Nepali passengers no longer need a transit visa to fly on Cathay Pacific (CX) via Hong Kong. Cathay’s prices from the west coast have always been attractive, but due to prior transit visa regulations, it was a hassle to fly using this airline.  Because of these changes, we have already witnessed an upward booking trend this year and expect Cathay to be very much in demand.

Cathay has among the best in-flight services in the world, has one of the youngest fleets of aircraft in the world, and one of the best safety records. The in-flight service includes complimentary beverages, movies and amenity kits. Cathay is a member of Asia Miles and people can register at Asiamiles.com to get frequent flyer miles that can be transferred into one of over 30 partner programs. Skytrax gives the airline a five-star rating, which makes it among the best airlines overall.

Prices from the western states are excellent all year round and they are very competitive for the middle and eastern states during peak seasons. Cathay has interline agreements with many US carriers and you can take a Cathay flight from almost any city.

The best prices for Cathay are between Jan-May and Sep-Nov. In December the fares are at their highest, while being in the middle from June to August.

Connections from New York are excellent. However, the transit from SFO & LAX is nine to twelve hours on the outbound. On the return, the transit times are more manageable.

In case you are unable to fly directly from Hong Kong to Kathmandu with a direct Dragon Air connection, you could also fly to Bangkok on CX and connect onwards with Thai.

Cathay's flights originate from LAX, SFO, and NYC.

For economy class passengers Cathay does not provide free meals or hotels during transit in Hong Kong. You can make arrangements directly with the airport lounge on arrival. For passengers with long layovers, you can take advantage of the Plaza Airport Lounge which is open to all. For a nominal fee, you can refresh & relax in comfort before boarding your departing flight or during transit. Enjoy unlimited facilities inclusive of hot showers, all day food & beverage buffet, internet and Email, CNN area, magazines and newspaper, and massage chairs and seated massage. The Plaza Pay-in Lounge has three facilities located at the Departures West Hall, level 6 & 7 and the Departures East Hall, level 6.

You can have a free stopover in Hong Kong, but please note, Nepali passport holders will need a tourist visa to get outside.

Luggage:

2 * 70 lbs from LAX, NYC, and SFO

2 * 50 lbs from flights originating in all other cities.

 

Skytrax Rating

5 Star (out of 5)

 

Weekly schedule HKG-KTM-HKG:

SU M W F

 

Cathay Gateway Cities

LAX, SFO, NYC

 

Long Transit times in HKG:

Outbound from SFO & LAX

 

USA Reservation Number:

1(800) 233-2742

 

Frequent Flyer Miles:

Asia Miles (Go to asiamiles.com)

 

Kathmandu Phone Number & Address:

Cathay US Interline Partners

AA, AS, CO, DL, F9, NW, UA, US

 

Websites:

Cathay Pacific Airlines: