Did LAX–HKG–BKK in January and just flew back BKK–HKG–LAX this week. I’d been booking AA/JL the past few years mostly for status convenience, but this time AA pricing was ridiculous so I went straight to Cathay.
Booked Premium Economy.
Outbound was the older PE cabin LAX–HKG. The oneworld Emerald lounge at the single digit gates is under renovation so no cabanas, but the temporary Deck lounge food was honestly great.
HKG–BKK had the new Premium Economy with the divider between seats at the armrest. Huge difference. Makes it feel way more private. Probably the best PE product I’ve flown.
Before the return we got an SMS saying we’d been downgraded to economy for BKK–HKG. Figured it was an aircraft swap and oversold PE. Short hop, not the end of the world.
Got to BKK super early just in case. At the Emerald check in counter after some back and forth, they upgraded us to business for BKK–HKG. Older business seat, but obviously beats economy.
The Sapphire lounge in BKK was excellent too. Food was surprisingly good.
Overall, Cathay just feels consistent. Service solid, product solid, value better than what I’ve been getting elsewhere. Even the temporary Deck lounge beats JL’s Sakura lounges lately in my opinion.
Think I’m back to booking CX for Asia trips.
0