Cathay Pacific Airways celebrated the launch of its daily non-stop flights to Chicago with a gala event held at The Peninsula Chicago on 8 September. Around 200 guests, including business partners and government officials, attended the celebration hosted by the airline’s Chief Executive, John Slosar. 

Officiating at the event was guest of honour The Hon Leong Che-hung, Member of the Executive Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government.

Cathay Pacific’s first flight from Hong Kong to Chicago took off on 1 September and the new service will play a pivotal role in connecting two of the world’s greatest cities. The daily non-stop service is being operated by recently arrived Boeing 777-300ER aircraft and features the airline’s new Business Class seat. 

Chicago is the 50th passenger destination launched by Cathay Pacific as part of its ongoing commitment to enhance connectivity for passengers around the world. With Chicago added to the airline’s expanding network, passengers from the US now have easy access to Mainland China and other parts of Asia through the airline’s hub in Hong Kong. At the same time, passengers flying to the US can enjoy the convenience of connecting to the Midwest through the Chicago gateway at O’Hare International Airport. 

Speaking at the event, Cathay Pacific Chief Executive John Slosar said: “I am very glad to be here in Chicago, among good friends, to celebrate the launch of our daily passenger flights to and from this fantastic city. Our new service will offer to Chicago businessmen and women access to great markets within the Cathay Pacific network, and access to the people who know them, especially China.” 

Guest of honour The Hon Leong Che-hung, Member of the Executive Council, said: “The American Chamber of Commerce expects an increase of some 60 per cent in US business investment in Hong Kong in the next 12 months. A direct flight to and from Chicago will undoubtedly increase this 60 per cent further by facilitating connections from the Midwest and Central US to Hong Kong." 

Highlights of the celebration included energetic performances by a Chinese percussion group and local percussion legends the Chicago Bucket Boys. Cathay Pacific’s signature “Walking on Air” show was also a big hit with the audience, showcasing the airline’s history through its uniform developments.