Friday, June 6, 2025
Cathay Pacific return to Italy’s capital marks a pivotal moment for both the airline and travelers looking for seamless connections between Europe and Asia. On June 5, 2025, the Hong Kong-based airline resumed its direct flights from Hong Kong (HKG) to Rome (FCO), ending a five-year hiatus. The new seasonal service is part of Cathay Pacific’s robust expansion strategy for 2025, which has already seen new routes launched to cities like Dallas-Fort Worth, Hyderabad, and Urumqi. With this move, Cathay Pacific not only reconnects Hong Kong with the historic city of Rome but also strengthens its European network, offering more travel options to passengers across the globe.
This summer seasonal route will operate three times a week, providing business and leisure travelers with the opportunity to enjoy a direct connection between two vibrant global cities. The resumption of the Hong Kong-Rome route adds to Cathay Pacific’s existing Italian operations to Milan, making Rome the carrier’s second Italian destination. The airline’s decision to renew this long-established link is a testament to its commitment to expanding its global network and solidifying its position as a leading international carrier.
Expansion of Cathay Pacific’s European Network
Cathay Pacific’s operations in Europe have been steadily growing, offering travelers more choices for international travel. With the introduction of the Hong Kong-Rome route, Cathay Pacific now serves two Italian cities, complementing its existing daily flights to Milan. This enhanced connectivity is part of a broader expansion plan that includes a network of nearly 100 weekly return flights across 12 major European destinations.
In addition to Rome, Cathay Pacific’s European network includes flights to key cities such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, Barcelona, and Zurich. This broad range of destinations in Europe gives travelers easy access to Cathay Pacific’s extensive network throughout the Asia-Pacific region. With Hong Kong serving as a major hub, passengers can seamlessly connect to destinations across Mainland China, Southeast Asia, and beyond.
Key Details of the New Rome Service
Cathay Pacific is introducing three weekly flights between Hong Kong and Rome, operating on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The service will run from June 5 through October 25, 2025, offering a perfect summer travel window for tourists, business travelers, and those looking to reconnect with loved ones in Italy. Here are the key details of the flight schedule:
- Outbound Flight (CX293):
- Departs from Hong Kong (HKG) at 00:30
- Arrives in Rome (FCO) at 07:35 local time
- Flight duration: Approximately 13 hours
- Return Flight (CX292):
- Departs from Rome (FCO) at 13:00
- Arrives in Hong Kong (HKG) at 06:30 the next day
- Flight duration: Approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes
Aircraft and Cabin Configuration:
Cathay Pacific is utilizing the Airbus A350-900 for this route, known for its fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. The aircraft is configured with three classes of service:
- Business Class: 38 fully flat-bed seats for maximum comfort on long-haul flights
- Premium Economy: 28 seats offering more space and enhanced amenities
- Economy Class: 214 seats with the signature Cathay Pacific service, ensuring comfort for all passengers
The A350-900’s modern amenities and quieter cabin make it an ideal choice for long-haul travel, allowing passengers to rest and recharge before arriving at their destination.
Why Rome?
The return to Rome is significant not only for Cathay Pacific but also for travelers looking to visit one of Europe’s most iconic cities. Rome, known for its rich history, culture, and world-famous landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon, attracts millions of tourists every year. By resuming direct flights from Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific is meeting the demand for greater connectivity between Europe and Asia, making it easier for travelers to visit Rome for both leisure and business.
Strategic Importance of Hong Kong as a Hub:
Hong Kong’s strategic location has long made it a key gateway between Asia and Europe, and Cathay Pacific’s hub at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) allows seamless connectivity to numerous cities across Asia. With Rome’s inclusion, passengers traveling from Italy will have enhanced access to Asia-Pacific destinations through Cathay Pacific’s extensive network. This service also provides Italian travelers with convenient options to explore other parts of Asia, from China to Japan, Southeast Asia, and Australia.
Cathay Pacific’s Expansion Plan in 2025
Cathay Pacific’s launch of flights to Rome is part of a larger plan to grow its global network in 2025. The airline has already introduced new routes to Hyderabad, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Urumqi this year, reflecting its focus on providing more travel options for passengers in both Asia and North America. This ambitious growth strategy aims to rebuild Cathay Pacific’s pre-pandemic operations and expand its market presence across the globe.
Cathay Pacific’s Sister Airline, HK Express
In tandem with Cathay Pacific’s European network expansion, its sister airline, HK Express, has also made significant strides in launching new routes. Over the same period, HK Express has introduced flights to six new destinations, including Sendai, Nha Trang, and Ishigaki. The combined efforts of both airlines ensure that travelers have access to a wide array of destinations across the Asia-Pacific region, with Hong Kong serving as a central hub.
Future Outlook: What’s Next for Cathay Pacific?
Cathay Pacific’s commitment to expanding its network goes beyond Europe. In addition to the Rome route, the airline has confirmed plans to launch services to Munich and Brussels later this summer, further strengthening its European presence. Additionally, Cathay Pacific aims to reach 100 global destinations by the first half of 2025, making it a powerhouse in international air travel.
The airline’s robust growth strategy demonstrates its resilience in the post-pandemic aviation landscape and its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of international travelers. As travel demand continues to rise, Cathay Pacific is well-positioned to be a leading player in the global aviation industry.
Conclusion:
The resumption of Cathay Pacific’s direct flights from Hong Kong to Rome is a major milestone in the airline’s 2025 expansion plan. By reintroducing this vital route, Cathay Pacific enhances its European network and offers passengers more opportunities to explore the cultural treasures of Italy and beyond. With its new seasonal service to Rome, Cathay Pacific solidifies its reputation as a reliable and customer-focused airline, committed to providing global travelers with convenient and comfortable travel options. Whether you’re planning a trip for business or leisure, the Hong Kong-Rome route opens doors to countless possibilities.
