AFF Review: Cathay Pacific A350 Premium Economy (HKG-SYD)

[AFF Editor]

Cathay Pacific A350 Premium Economy Review is an article written by the AFF editorial team:

https://www.australianfrequentflyer.com.au/cathay-pacific-a350-premium-economy-review/

You can leave a comment or discuss this topic below.

 

[Guru-G]

I wouldn't pay for PE on Cathay - sounds very mediocre.

 

[kamchatsky]

Well I will be flying SYD-HKG and return in PE in about 1 month’s time on CX award. This report is timely but the food does not look tempting at all. Maybe I shall see if I can get an upgrade.

 

[encryptededdy]

I agree the product isn't that impressive (especially the narrow seat on 2-4-2 A350s), however the legroom + very deep recline makes it much easier for me to sleep compared to Economy, which is the primary benefit to me.

I will note that IME Cathay's Premium Economy is almost always cheaper than other carriers on the routes I take, so I find it's still a good deal.

I feel the same way about SQ's Premium Economy (not the greatest product, but it's relatively cheap and lets me get a good sleep).

 

[GoldenTouchdown]

I wouldn't pay for PE on Cathay - sounds very mediocre.

It always has been pretty mediocre, looks like not much has changed really since the launch in 2012. I feel the concept of W/PE is a ripoff in general.

 

[stm1sydney]

"Some airlines have opted for a 2-3-2 layout in Premium Economy on their Airbus A350s." This is crying out for the author to inform us of those airlines. Particularly as the narrow seat on CX PE was one of the main shortcomings.

 

[encryptededdy]

"Some airlines have opted for a 2-3-2 layout in Premium Economy on their Airbus A350s." This is crying out for the author to inform us of those airlines. Particularly as the narrow seat on CX PE was one of the main shortcomings.

Only one I know of is China Airlines. They use hard shell seats though, so I'm not sure how their recline compares.

 

[elanshin]

Cathay's PE is ok. Nothing crazily great about it, but it does offer slightly better comforts fo sleeping. I'd only bother if it was an overnight flight. Day time i don't think it's really worth it over Cathay's Y product especially if you're not on a full load and have a spare seat next to you in Y.

 

[kamchatsky]

So I flew CX PE SYD-HKG and back in the last few days. Both flights are day flights (CX162 and CX139). I redeemed via Asia Miles for 30K each way.

Seat (both ways):
The seat width is not as good as it should as PE. Happy with the recline though, much more than Y. On HKG-SYD leg (CX139) I had the bulkhead row so it is a much better experience in terms of leg room. It is fine for both daytime flights, as it is good for a nap between meals. I would definitely try to get J though if it is overnight.

IFE (both ways): Whilst they still have a lot of TVs and movies, it is nowhere near as much as before. But would still have more than what QF offers.

CX162 (SYD-HKG):
Lounge: I went to The House AND Qantas International J lounge. I was surprised but QF J lounge is MUCH BETTER than The House, so surprised that I had to check that I did go into the right lounge. The food in the House is very disappointing. Not sausage and bacon, but have congee. QF J lounge have pretty standard breakfast offering including sausage and bacon, as well as wider range of drinks. It is operated by Sofitel, and I enjoyed their barista made Ice Latte. The House only provides machine made coffees. Definitely QF J lounge hands down here.

In flight Food:
Lunch: The ling fish with rice is actually OK. I find Gweilo beer funny, but not the best beer around.





Refreshment: The Shepherd's Pie is soggy and taste no good because of it. Betsy beer is not as good as Gweilo beer either.


CX139 (HKG-SYD):

Lounge: I went to The Pier (Business) for the first time, and I have to say that I prefer The Pier to The Wing (I did not go to The Wing this time). The Wing is brighter, but The Pier is more "intimate". The breakfast offering at The Pier (Business) is great for both Chinese and Western versions.







In Flight Food:


I am on the first row in PE, and somehow by the time when it gets to me, the morning Dim Sum had already run out. So I ended up eating western breakfast instead. All I can say is that I am so glad that I had access to the lounge, and had food before hand. As the breakfast tasted bland, and the potato wedges tasted soggy.



The FA though did made up for it by asking me for my preference for the dinner meal. I chose Stir Fried Chicken with rice and it tasted OK.