Cathay is officially stepping into 2026 by launching its 80th anniversary celebrations, marking eight decades of connecting people and moving the global travel industry forward since its founding in 1946. To usher in this significant milestone, the airline is hosting a series of special events and initiatives throughout the year under the unifying theme of 80 Years Together.
This celebration kicks off with a touch of Lunar New Year tradition as Cathay releases a limited edition set of red packets specifically designed to mark the 80 year anniversary.
These red packets serve as a nostalgic tribute to the most iconic cabin crew uniforms from previous decades, reflecting the evolution of the brand and its long standing connection with travellers across Asia.
The festivities officially began on 6 January 2026 with a special event hosted by Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam alongside the senior leadership team. A major highlight of the launch was the unveiling of a special aircraft livery on one of the airline’s long haul Airbus A350 passenger aircraft.
The design features the iconic lettuce leaf sandwich pattern, a beloved green and white striped paint scheme that pays homage to the airline’s storied legacy. Fans of aviation history can also look forward to a second version of this vintage livery which will be revealed on a Boeing 747 freighter in the coming weeks.
During the launch event, Ronald Lam highlighted the deep bond between the airline and its home city of Hong Kong. Looking toward the future, the group is committing over HK$100 billion to enhance its fleet, cabin products, and digital innovation to maintain its status as a leading international aviation hub.
Passengers travelling with Cathay during this anniversary year will have a unique opportunity to witness the airline’s history in person. Between 1,000 and 2,000 cabin crew and ground employees will wear and showcase vintage uniforms at work throughout 2026.
This live exhibition of the brand’s sartorial history will be complemented by a curated collection of anniversary merchandise.
These lifestyle and travel essentials will reimagine classic designs from different eras, allowing customers to take home a piece of the airline’s heritage. More activations and initiatives are expected to be announced as the 80 Years Together campaign progresses through the year.
