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 demand.
Cathay Group chairman Guy Bradley, who delivered the interim results for the first time since taking up the role earlier this year, said jet fuel prices had come down from their peak in the second quarter but were increasing again due to the 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.
Growth was recorded across the group’s premium services, low-cost segment and cargo operations.
The net profit included a one-off gain of HK$1 billion arising mainly from the dilution of Cathay’s equity interest in Air China, the airline noted.
The group’s overall revenue jumped 25.3 per cent year on year to HK$68.06 billion.