Timetable for CX New Business Class (CX293 HKG-FCO)

[doctork]

I'm heading to Rome in early December 2011 and need to choose between SYD-LHR-FCO (on QF/BA) or SYD-HKG-FCO (on QF/CX).
Flying J (actually class I due to work paying and getting discounted fare).

1. On SeatExpert, CX293 (HKG-FCO) and CX 292 (FCO-HKG) are showing a 2-2-2 layout. Is this the old business class?
2. If old business class, does any expert out there know whether Cathay will update their planes to Rome by December?
3. If you had to choose between BA/QF business class to LHR, transit and on to FCO; versus CX old business class from HKG to FCO, what would your choice be? I'm not too time-pressured, so the extra few hours don't worry me too much on the way there. I have to get back fast, so not much choice on the way back.

Any and all help greatly appreciated.

'Tork

 

[Danger]

HKG-FCO on CX seems to be operated by an A340-300 every day. Unfortunately, Cathay are not retrofitting their A340s which would suggest CX293 has next-to-no chance of flying with their new Business product. Of course, last minute changes of aircraft are always possible but I certainly wouldn't be booking a seat hoping for a change.

I've flown long-haul J on QF, BA and CX but not nearly as much as some others around here so I'm not the best person to comment. However, if you're a Qantas Frequent Flyer, I'd be looking at routing with QF and/or BA:

1. you'll earn a cabin bonus of 25% (plus any other frequent flyer status bonus);
2. routing via SIN means an A380 (at least SYD-SIN, and onwards to LHR if you choose QF);
3. landing into LHR in J you can use the AA Arrivals Lounge (QF) or the BA Arrivals Lounge (T5, BA) (something a little extra), and;
4. more miles overall.