15hr Wander: Cathay Pacific First Class To New York

Updated on May 24th, 2025 at 07:16 pm

For as long as I can remember, Cathay Pacific has been an aspirational airline. Offering a superior flying experience no matter what cabin you are in.

They are one of a handful of brands consistently ranked as a 5* airline. Truth be told, I find the Skytrax ranking rather questionable sometimes, but I do not doubt Cathay’s ranking. Cathay Pacific First Class or even Business is a true treat for any luxury traveller.

Flight Details

Route: Hong Kong to New York JFK

Flight no: CX840

Departure time: 4.10pm

Arrival time: 7.05pm

Scheduled duration: 15 hours 55 min

Aircraft: 777-300ER (Tail B-KPL)

Seat/Suite: 2A (First Class)

Check in

I arrived at the airport just 1 hour 20 min before my first leg into Hong Kong and was quickly checked through with my boarding passes and lounge access for both Danang and Hong Kong.

It was all a breeze.

Lounge

The lounge in Danang was actually quite nice but I really only spent about 30 mins there. My hotel had amazing breakfast so I had something quick there before I left for the airport.

In Hong Kong airport, I went back to the Pier First Class lounge which I have been lucky enough to use on multiple occasions. Not much has changed there.

On a side note, slight communication issue persists, when I asked for a day room, the lady kept showing me to a shower?! I didn’t need a shower just yet, especially if I nap, I like to shower after but oh well. Given it was only 3 hours after my last one I felt perfectly fresh, but took another shower anyway!

Cathay Pacific First Class Boarding

Cathay doesn’t have a separate clear boarding area for First Class as such.

General boarding had already started by the time I got to the gate but I was whisked through the First/Business lane and was asked a few questions about my bags in transit (standard process for U.S bound flights)

And off I went to a jet bridge just for First Class via Door 1.

I was met at the door and escorted to my suite (2A) by the First Class Cabin Service Manager (CSM).

The cabin looked immaculate with a bright and fresh feel to it…

The build-up of all the anticipation leading up to this is something that can lead to underwhelming contact with reality – but no, not with Cathay Pacific First Class!

As I was exploring the suite, she came back with some champagne and introduced herself.

Within seconds, the other First Class cabin crew also introduced himself. In the haze of excitement I did not really remember any of their names for a while. Until I got a glimpse of their badges later.

here were 4 First Class guests on today’s flight. So with 3 crew members looking after us, we were really in for a treat!

Cathay Pacific First Class Suite Features

Stepping into the suite felt curiously familiar, even though this was my very first experience flying Cathay Pacific First Class. My previous journey in Cathay Dragon’s First Class, a distinctly different product, may have shaped my expectations—but this was an entirely new level of luxury.

Intimate and Exclusive Layout

The cabin features just six semi-enclosed First Class suites arranged in an exclusive 1-1-1 layout across two rows. The intimacy of the setup is undeniable.

My chosen suite, 2A, offered a window view with an aisle separating it from the adjacent suite, ensuring I enjoyed unmatched privacy, undisturbed by passenger foot traffic—only the occasional, attentive crew member passing by.

A Space Built for Indulgence

To put things into perspective, the space allocated for these six First Class suites could accommodate 36–40 Economy Class seats!

Cathay Pacific has clearly prioritized comfort and exclusivity over maximizing capacity, creating an environment where every detail speaks of indulgence.

Immediately behind us, divided by thick fully enclosed curtains was Business Class.

Each suite has a large white pillow, a cushion in Cathay burgundy, as well as a neck headrest pillow combo attached at the seat – something rather uniquely.

There was a storage compartment to the left, alongside the separate IFE control and seat control panels.

Off course the entire side panel which stretches 3 window length also act as storage surface during flight…

CX First Class welcome drink warm nuts and amenity kit

To the right was a literature holder within easy reach.

To the front and below the IFE was a more substantial storage space where you can place your laptop, water bottles, books and additional magazines.

The whole suite was genuinely wide enough to fit 2 people side by side and a third person in the buddy seat!

Dining Convenience

A generously sized table elegantly extends from the side panel, thoughtfully designed for the crew to set up during meal service. The table’s spacious surface can be adjusted to allow passengers to leave their seat comfortably, even when the table is fully set.

Customizable Ambiance

Lighting options are tailored to each passenger’s preferences, featuring two adjustable side lights and overhead illumination. Subtle mood lighting beneath the footrest and the in-flight entertainment unit adds a sophisticated touch to the cabin’s ambiance.

Smart Storage Solutions

Each passenger enjoys a private cupboard equipped with two hangers, a hook, and ample space for a full-sized carry-on. Uniquely, this storage is positioned at floor level, eliminating the need to lift heavy items into the overhead bins—an appreciated convenience.

CX First Class Personal wadrobe — CX First Class Personal wardrobe

The front foot rest has plenty storage underneath too, which also is a buddy seat complete with its own seat belts.

Finally, the fresh orchids almost floating by the window panel provided a great touch, and classy ambience.

Cathay First Class amenities

After welcome drinks, the crew handed out the Bamford amenity kits (coming in male and female variants), which came in a stylish leather wash bag.

I was asked about my size preference before a PJ and slippers kit by PYE was fetched for me…

These PJS were made from 100% organic sustainable cotton and truly of exceptional quality. I liked the dark and smart colour choice and it felt very comfortable. It is definitely up there with Emirates First Class PJs in terms of quality but I actually prefer the style and fitting of Cathay ones.

Take off

The pilots introduced themselves over the intercom and welcomed all on-board relaying expectations of flight path and timings. We were flying east via Japan and over Alaska and most of Canada into New York. Our flight was mostly expected to be smooth.

They anticipated a quicker flight today of 14 hours and 40 mins, landing over 1 hour early into JFK (depending on clearance).

We departed the gate about 4.20pm and took off 4.29pm

The take-off roll was one of the longest I’d experienced for a 777, which makes sense given the long flight, the aircraft must have been close to maximum take-off weight.

Reputed for exceptional & warm First class service

The First Class experience begins the instant you step into your suite, with the crew addressing you by name throughout the flight—a personal touch that elevates the journey.

Within moments of settling in, I was offered a warm towel, a glass of Krug champagne, and a serving of warm nuts, all presented seamlessly and followed by attentive service even before takeoff.

The menu for the flight is below.

CX F Menu

CX F Menu
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First Class dining is on demand —you decide when and what to enjoy from the curated menu. Heather, one of the First crew members, inquired about my preferred dining time and took my meal selections. I opted to begin my culinary journey approximately an hour after takeoff, starting with the iconic caviar service.

Service was managed by a combination of Heather and the other male First class crew, Daniel. Not the CSM who I never got the name of again :/

I was served the Caviar to start..

While I don’t claim to be a caviar connoisseur, this particular serving left a little to be desired, with a slightly bitter aftertaste that detracted from the overall enjoyment.

I understand Cathay Pacific recently changed their caviar supplier, though I can’t personally compare it to their previous selection.

Shortly after, Heather returned to collect the glasses I had used earlier. With a warm smile, she gestured to the small pot placed alongside my champagne after takeoff and asked, “Can I take this?” Only then did I realize it wasn’t just a decorative touch—it was the amuse-bouche!

CX First Class Amouse Bouche — CX First Class Amuse Bouche

This turned into a lighthearted moment, as I had completely missed it, spoon and all. In hindsight, it did make me wonder if it’s customary for the crew to explain items not explicitly ordered.

After this, I was served the starter mushroom cream soup.

The soup tasted great but couldn’t help wonder if the colour was a bit off? I was half expecting this to have beef or something in it.

This was followed by salad course for the dinner…

which kind of started to throw me off a bit. Wait, this is part of a First Class meal? I was rather surprised by the presentation of it. It just felt sloppy.

When I later inspected the First Class menu again, I noticed the salad I was meant to have artichokes in it, which were not present.

What would you think if you were being served this on one of the worlds most reputable First Class product?

Minor hiccup, I humoured myself, as my thoughts quickly moved onto the following courses.

For the main, I chose the North Atlantic cod..

The cod was generally excellent. Succulent and with a light refreshing seasoning. This was followed by the cheese course…

I did notice, I was not even asked/offered any port to go along with it? Now, I didn’t actually want any but you know, but a pattern was starting to emerge..

I finished off the meal with the hazelnut cake with ice cream, which was superb!

After clearing away my table, Heather brought over some Pralines and new hot towel as she asked me if I wanted more tea, which being British, I could not say no to !

Anytime Refreshments & Snacks

Cathay offers lighter meal choices as part of the snack menu, anytime you like.

As this was still a very long flight, you could choose to eat as many meals as you practically can have.

However, in between watching a couple of movies and trying to get some shut eye (it was a 5am wakeup!) I didn’t really feel hungry enough to order any food in the middle of the flight.

Inflight Entertainment & Connectivity

For these ultra long-haul flights, decent entertainment and programming options becomes ever more vital, here Cathay Delivers.

The IFE setup has been updated since the planes were initially delivered, with 18.5″ HD screens, a touchscreen controller which can act/be used independently of the main screen so you can play with Interactive flight maps/onboard cameras/shop while having something else on the main screen.

The Studio as IFE system is known offers quite an extensive choice of films, documentaries and music and games. You can view the content before your flight, directly on Cathay’s website.

The BOSE noise-cancelling headphones provided offer crisp sound are amongst the most comfortable headphones out there. None of that ear pain you get with some headphone after a couple of hours use!

Unlimited WiFi

Cathay offers Wifi onboard, and for First class its completely free and unlimited.

I was connected for almost the entire flight, browsing as well as booking some accommodation for later in the month.

There was no lag or disconnections as often happens with inflight Wifi services.

A Luxurious Bed In The Skies

After the meal service, Heather kindly asked if I’d like her to prepare my bed. Preferring to relax for a while, I declined but was reassured when she mentioned she’d be happy to set it up whenever I was ready.

Around four hours into the flight, I decided to change into the provided pajamas. As I picked up the PJ bag, the Cabin Service Manager noticed and proactively offered to prepare my bed before I even had the chance to ask.

When I returned, I was greeted by a beautifully made setup that resembled a proper bed—an inviting sight that underscored the impeccable attention to detail and care taken to enhance the First Class experience.

CX First Class bed 2 — CX First Class bed

Even though this was mostly a daytime flight, in terms of sleep cycle, a sleep sure looked very inviting in this setup!

I found the quality of it all, from the mattress topper itself, the outer layer of the mattress topper, full size soft pillows and the fluffy duvet complete with the 600 thread count to be simply outstanding. It feels plush, comforting and with the addition of the lovely pillow mist, the complete works to help you drift off into cloud 9.

And drift off, I did. For about 3 hours, until we hit some moderate turbulence.

I should note, I also asked the CSM if they could turn down the cabin temperature a little more. He informed me it was currently at 22 degrees, but he would be happy to turn it down to 19, which I really appreciated.

2 First Class Bathrooms

The aircraft featured two bathrooms for First Class passengers: one generously sized, ideal for changing into pyjamas, and a smaller, standard-sized one located just behind the cockpit

Both were thoughtfully stocked with Bamford amenities, including facial cleanser, toner, dental kits, and shavers, along with proper fabric towels for a more luxurious touch.

Each time I visited, the bathrooms were impeccably maintained. Every detail was attended to—the toilet paper was neatly folded into a triangle, the surfaces were completely dry, and everything felt freshly cleaned.

“Breakfast”/ Pre-landing meal

As I was already up, about 2 and half hours before landing time, I decided to eat again.

The crew did ask if I would like my seat turned back, but I preferred to have “breakfast” in bed 🙂

It started with some fruits and a basket of croissants and pastries..

CX First Class Breakfast in Bed First Course

While there were 3 choices for mains, I generally don’t like Asian breakfasts but the Western option had bacon. I requested that without the bacon and sausage while I explained that I did not eat pork based products.

So I was served this..

CX First Class Breakfast Trimmed down main course

I have to admit, breakfast left me feeling a bit deflated. It resembled something I might hastily throw together on a lazy Sunday morning when I’m only half-inspired to cook. To add to the disappointment, the tomato and mushrooms from my meal ( as listed on menu ) had mysteriously vanished—I hadn’t asked for them to be removed!

Rather than complain, I requested some toast, which arrived promptly.

I should note that the Cabin Service Manager was attentive and came over to inquire if I’d like anything else from the menu, acknowledging the pared-down nature of my breakfast.

More out of curiosity than hunger, I ordered the Fishball and flat rice noodle soup

CX First Class Breakfast alternative main

This was nice but my appetite had somewhat dwindled by then.

Not long after the captain announced the start of our descent into JFK and the crew prepared the cabin for landing.

Overall Thoughts Of Cathay First Class

Overall, this flight left me with mixed feeling. The hard product is fantastic, and the soft amenities really stood out. However, the service during meal times didn’t quite meet the high standards I expected. I didn’t feel the warmth or personal touch that I’ve experienced with other top airlines, even in Business Class.

Ironically, an ad in my copy of The Economist that day proudly featured Cathay’s new First Class service, titled “All IN PERFECT HARMONY”—but it didn’t feel that way this time.

Both First Class crew members (excluding the CSM) seemed a bit disengaged and less polished than what you would associate with Cathay Pacific. The personal elements of service are what truly elevate an experience, but this time, the connection was lacking. For instance, after agreeing to have the dishes cleared post-breakfast, the crew member asked again 10 minutes later, leaving me wondering about communication issues.

I also noticed a couple of oddities: First Class passengers weren’t given personal welcome notes, and there was no pillow menu offered, which is typically a part of the experience. While I was happy with the pillow provided, others might have preferred something firmer.

Ultimately, a premium experience depends on the seamless flow of all elements, and there’s always a risk that something will go awry. Therefore, I do not think my experience was Cathay Pacific in the best light.

Fear not, my next Cathay Pacific First Class is not too far off, so stay tuned!

Verdict in number

Check in & Ground experience
Seat & Bed
Quality of Dining & Beverage
Staff Service
Amenities

4.5

Faze

Faze, founder of Wander Up Front and Elevate Your Stay, is a London-based travel specialist with a deep passion for aviation. With over 2 million miles flown, he has spent the last 8 years focusing on First and Business class experiences.

Faze provides straightforward, no-frills insights into premium airline products and services, sharing what matters to help travellers make informed choices.

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