Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is welcoming back a key international connection as Cathay Pacific officially resumes its nonstop service to Hong Kong. This move restores a vital route that was suspended when the global pandemic began.

Cathay Pacific Relaunches SEA to Hong Kong Route

The inaugural flight for the reinstated service took place on Monday, March 30. Cathay Pacific will operate five flights weekly, utilizing its Airbus A350-900 aircraft for the route.

Flights are generally scheduled to depart SEA around midday, though the exact timing may vary slightly depending on the specific month or season.

Official Reactions to the Route Restoration

Sam Cho, a commissioner for the Port of Seattle, expressed enthusiasm for the service's return. “Direct service from Seattle to Hong Kong is back, and we couldn’t be more thrilled,” Cho stated.

He added that this connection is significant for both business and leisure travel, helping to strengthen regional ties and broaden access for the local community.

Lavinia Lau, Chief Customer and Commercial Officer at Cathay Pacific, highlighted the significance of the renewed partnership. “As Cathay Pacific marks 80 years of connecting Hong Kong with the world, we are delighted to resume service to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport,” Lau commented.

Lau noted that Seattle serves as a crucial gateway for travelers throughout the Pacific Northwest. This renewed service enhances access to Hong Kong and Cathay Group’s extensive network, which spans over 100 destinations across Asia and beyond.

SEA Airport Expands International Offerings

The return of Cathay Pacific signifies an important milestone for SEA, as it represents the final pre-pandemic carrier to re-establish service at the airport.

SEA leadership has been actively working to enhance its international flight portfolio. This focus on global connectivity is also evident in other upcoming route launches.

Upcoming International Destinations from SEA

Travelers can look forward to several new international options launching soon:

  • Alaska Airlines will begin nonstop flights to Rome starting April 28.
  • Alaska Airlines is also launching nonstop service to London starting May 21.
  • Nonstop daily flights to Reykjavík are scheduled to run from May 28 through September 7.

Note: The original article also contained unrelated updates regarding TSA back pay following a government shutdown, light rail service restoration, bridge closures due to weather, and local community news, which are omitted here to focus solely on the airport and flight news as per the instructions.