US And Hong Kong Travel Link Restored With Cathay Pacific’s Nonstop A350 Flights From Seattle In March 2026
The US and Hong Kong travel link restored marks a major boost for transpacific travel as Cathay Pacific launches nonstop A350 flights from Seattle in March 2026. Explore routes, benefits, and what this revival means for global connectivity.
Cathay Pacific Seattle flights are officially returning in March 2026 after years of suspension. The Hong Kong-based airline has confirmed it will restart its non-stop service to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), providing a vital connection between Asia’s world city and the U.S. Pacific Northwest.
Did you know Seattle will become Cathay Pacific’s ninth North American passenger destination? With five weekly flights on the Airbus A350-900, the route is set to strengthen travel and business ties across the Pacific.
What’s Changing in 2026?
Cathay Pacific had previously paused its Seattle service, but from 30 March 2026, the airline will reintroduce five weekly round-trip flights. This marks a strong rebound for both international travel demand and Cathay’s network recovery strategy.
The relaunch demonstrates Hong Kong’s continued role as a major gateway between Asia and North America. For Seattle, it means greater access for business travelers, students, and leisure passengers traveling to and from Asia.
$750 Amazon Gift Card
Some users qualify for a $1000 Walmart gift card. You can check if you qualify.
Flight Schedule
The Cathay Pacific Seattle flights will run five days a week:
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday departures from Hong Kong.
- Return flights will depart Seattle the same day.
Flight timings will slightly adjust between spring, summer, and fall schedules:
- 30 March – 31 May 2026 & 16 September – 24 October 2026: Departure from Hong Kong in the late afternoon, arrival in Seattle mid-morning.
- 1 June – 15 September 2026 (summer schedule): Adjusted departure times from Seattle to accommodate operational needs.
This scheduling allows seamless onward connections to China Mainland, India, Southeast Asia, and Australia via Hong Kong.
Aircraft and Onboard Experience
Cathay Pacific will operate the route with its Airbus A350-900 aircraft. Known for fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, the A350 is a long-range aircraft ideal for trans-Pacific flights.
Cabin classes include:
- Business Class: Lie-flat seats, premium dining, and access to Cathay lounges.
- Premium Economy: Wider seats, extra recline, enhanced meal service.
- Economy Class: Modern seating with inflight entertainment and USB/power ports.
The aircraft also features Wi-Fi connectivity, quieter engines, and advanced air filtration, ensuring a comfortable experience for the 10+ hour journey.
Why Seattle Matters
Seattle isn’t just another U.S. city in Cathay’s network—it plays a strategic role:
- Tech hub: Home to Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing, Seattle attracts significant corporate travel.
- Gateway to Asia: The Pacific Northwest has large Asian communities and strong trade ties.
- Tourism: Seattle offers attractions like Pike Place Market and Mount Rainier, making it popular for Asian visitors.
By reinstating this route, Cathay Pacific Seattle flights connects two innovation-driven cities, supporting both business and leisure travelers.
Impact on Travelers
The return of the Cathay Pacific Seattle flights means:
- Business travelers regain a direct route to Asia’s financial hub.
- Students from Asia studying in the Pacific Northwest benefit from smoother travel.
- Leisure travelers enjoy easier access to destinations like Thailand, Japan, and India via Hong Kong.
- Cargo services strengthen trade ties, with the A350 also carrying valuable freight.
For passengers, avoiding connections in San Francisco or Los Angeles will save hours of travel time.
Comparisons with Other Airlines
Cathay Pacific Seattle flights isn’t the only carrier serving the Asia–Seattle market, but it adds vital competition:
- Delta Air Lines: Offers nonstop flights to Seoul and Tokyo.
- Korean Air: Seattle–Seoul Incheon nonstop.
- All Nippon Airways (ANA): Seattle–Tokyo Haneda nonstop.
- Singapore Airlines: Seasonal service to Singapore via Vancouver.
Cathay Pacific Seattle flights advantage lies in its Hong Kong hub, which provides extensive onward connections to mainland China and South Asia—markets less accessible from other hubs.
Expert Opinions
- Ronnie Choi, Cathay Pacific Regional Director: Called Seattle “an important market for trade and travel, one that perfectly complements our North America strategy.”
- Seattle Airport Authority: Welcomed the return, noting it strengthens the region’s links to Asia and boosts tourism.
- Travel Analysts: Highlight that the A350’s efficiency makes niche long-haul routes more sustainable post-pandemic.
Practical Takeaways
- Book early: With only five weekly flights, demand may be high.
- Check connecting options: Cathay’s Hong Kong hub allows smooth transfers to Asia-Pacific.
- Look for loyalty perks: Asia Miles and oneworld partners provide redemption opportunities.
- Monitor fares: Introductory pricing may appear in late 2025.
$500 Walmart Gift Card$500 Walmart Gift Card
Some users qualify for a $500 Walmart gift card. You can check if you qualify.
FAQs
Q1: When will Cathay Pacific resume Seattle flights?
A1: Service begins on 30 March 2026.
Q2: How often will Cathay Pacific fly to Seattle?
A2: Five times per week (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat).
Q3: What aircraft will serve the route?
A3: The Airbus A350-900.
Q4: Why did Cathay Pacific choose Seattle?
A4: Cathay Pacific Seattle flights is a tech hub, a gateway to Asia, and home to a large Asian community.
Key Takeaways
- Cathay Pacific Seattle flights resume March 2026.
- Non-stop service: Hong Kong ↔ Seattle, five times weekly.
- Aircraft: Airbus A350-900, offering modern comfort.
- Strengthens business, tourism, and trade between Asia and the Pacific Northwest.
Conclusion
The resumption of Cathay Pacific Seattle flights marks an important milestone in the airline’s recovery and expansion. By reconnecting Hong Kong and Seattle, Cathay is re-establishing a vital Pacific link for travelers, businesses, and communities. With a modern fleet and strong network, the airline is positioning itself as a key connector between Asia and North America once again.
