Nation

Cathay Pacific Makes History with Nonstop Flights from Hong Kong to Dallas

2025-04-24

Author: Wei

A Journey of Legacy and Growth

In an extraordinary milestone, Cathay Pacific has launched its first-ever nonstop service from Hong Kong (HKG) to Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), bridging a historical connection nearly 80 years in the making. This marks a significant moment for the airline, now the only one to directly link Texas with Hong Kong, further expanding its influence in the southern U.S. market.

Starting with four weekly flights, this new route is not just another addition; it’s the longest in Cathay Pacific's network, stretching a staggering 8,123 miles, surpassing even its flights to New York (JFK).

Roots Deep in Texas

Cathay Pacific was born in 1946 thanks to Texan Roy C. Farrell, a courageous former U.S. Air Force pilot. He dreamt of using just one aircraft to distribute essential goods across Asia, but his vision eventually soared beyond borders.

"We proudly acknowledge our Texas roots and the visionary founders who started it all," stated Lavinia Lau, Cathay’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer. The launch of nonstop flights between Hong Kong and Dallas is a heartfelt tribute to Cathay’s founders, Farrell and Sydney de Kantzow.

For Farrell’s son, Roy Jr., this route symbolizes more than business—it's a homage to his father's pioneering spirit. "Bringing Cathay Pacific back to Texas would surely make my father proud," he affirmed.

Strategic Timing and Connectivity

Dallas—being a major hub for American Airlines, Cathay’s oneworld partner—presents immense strategic value. It serves as a vital gateway to over 190 domestic and 11 Latin American destinations. DFW Airport CEO Sean Donohue emphasized the airport’s commitment to fostering connections among cultures and economies with the arrival of Cathay Pacific.

This new service also fills a void left by American Airlines, which paused its Hong Kong route during the pandemic. Aviation experts believe Cathay's timing couldn't be better as it revitalizes its U.S. network.

Details of the New Route

Cathay will operate the service on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, utilizing its advanced Airbus A350-1000. Flights will depart Hong Kong at 4:05 PM and land in Dallas at 5:55 PM on the same day, while the return flight will take off at 11:55 PM, arriving back in Hong Kong 16 hours later.

The A350-1000 offers a serene cabin experience and fuel efficiency, crucial for such lengthy flights, although it currently lacks Cathay’s award-winning Aria Suite business class.

A Bold Expansion Ahead

Cathay Pacific's Texas route is part of a grand vision to enhance its North American portfolio. By 2025, the airline aims to provide 108 weekly flights across the Pacific, including robust service to major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, and Chicago.

With a strategic focus on connecting to Vancouver and Toronto, Cathay is on a path to solidify its North American presence and reach a remarkable 100 global passenger destinations by 2025.

Full Circle

For Cathay Pacific, the launch of this route is a poetic return to its roots. What began as a noble dream from a single plane now connects continents and cultures globally, with Texas finally carved into its flight map.

Roy Farrell Jr. encapsulated this sentiment perfectly: "It’s remarkable that Dad’s vision has transformed into one of the top service brands worldwide, making transcontinental connectivity a reality."