Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways has reported a 71 per cent year-on-year rise in net profit to HK$6.24 billion (US$802 million) for the first six months of 2026, driven by stronger passenger flight and cargo demand.
Cathay Group chairman Guy Bradley, who delivered the interim results for the first time since taking up the role earlier this year, said on Wednesday that fuel prices had fallen from their peak in the second quarter but were rising again due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
“We expect the impact of elevated fuel prices will continue for the rest of the year and we remain alert to the changing geopolitical and market situation,” he said.
CEO Ronald Lam Siu-por said Cathay’s airfares were “supported” in the second quarter as more transit passengers chose Hong Kong following the Middle East war.
Growth was recorded across the group’s premium services, low-cost segment and cargo operations.
Net profit included a one-off gain of HK$1 billion arising mainly from the dilution of Cathay’s equity interest in Air China.
