As Cathay Pacific Airways enters its 80th year we pay tribute to one of the world’s great airlines known for engineering excellence, pilot excellence and innovation.
SEE Cathay Pacific’s Comfort and Environmental Rankings
Douglas DC6-B above and below. Boeing Historical Archives
Convair 880
Cathay Pacific Convair 800 lifts off from Kai Tak
Lockheed Tristar
Cathay Pacific Boeing 747s at Kai Tak
Retiring Engineering Director Stewart John with a Boeing 747-400 carrying his name just for its delivery flight. Geoffrey Thomas
Delivery of the first 777-300 at Kai Tak
Cathay Pacific Airbus A330
Cathay Pacific Airbus A350 in the Retro Livery
About 42kft
At 42 Thousand Feet (42kft.com), we bring you factual, insightful airline news—cutting through the noise to deliver what truly matters to airline passengers, aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals.
Why the name? 42,000 feet marks the uppermost cruising altitude of today’s commercial aircraft, and just like those soaring jets, we aim to elevate your understanding of the aviation world. Our goal is simple: to help readers and subscribers stay ahead of the curve, making sense of both the present and the future of this ever-evolving industry.
With over 50 years of passion for aviation, our commitment has always been to get the facts right and present them in a way that’s both accurate and easy to grasp. After all, aviation is one of the most complex industries—often defying common logic. For example, strength in aviation isn’t about rigidity but flexibility, just like the remarkable bend of a wing in flight.
Beyond news, 42kft is home to the world’s first environmental rankings and our unique take on inflight product rankings:
Environmental Rankings – Unlike others that focus on distant “grand plans”, we recognize airlines taking real action today to reduce their carbon footprint.
Product Rankings – Instead of just reviewing current offerings, we reward long-term commitment—airlines investing in new aircraft and cabin innovations that will shape the passenger experience for years to come.
At 42kft, we don’t just report aviation news—we help you rise above it.
