Cathay Group hits passenger record and 9% cargo growth in August

The Cathay Group reported record-breaking passenger numbers and significant cargo growth for August 2026. The group’s passenger airlines, Cathay Pacific and HK Express, carried over 3.6 million passengers during the month, representing a 4% increase year-on-year.

Cathay Cargo saw a 9% increase in volume compared to August 2025, transporting more than 150,000 tonnes. This growth was supported by demand in key markets, including semiconductor shipments within Asia and pharmaceutical growth from Europe and the Chinese mainland.

Despite elevated jet fuel prices, the group noted resilient leisure travel from Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland. In the first eight months of 2026, total passenger numbers increased by 15% compared to the same period in 2025, while total cargo tonnage rose by 8%.