Cathay Pacific economy review: I flew in the ‘World’s Best Economy’ seat — the highlight was a cup of soup

Cathay Pacific describes its economy cabin as the ‘world’s best’, promising seats of ‘unmatched comfort, delicious meal options, and an award-winning inflight entertainment system.’

And after flying return through the airline’s Hong Kong hub, I can safely say the claim is well grounded.

Founded in 1946, Cathay Pacific is Hong Kong’s flag carrier and one of Asia’s most respected airlines. It has the accolades to back it up, having been named World’s Best Economy Class and Top 3 World’s Best Airline in the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards.

So, what does a flight on this esteemed airline really look like?

First, let’s talk about price, because comfort needs context. Cathay’s economy fares vary widely depending on route, seasonality, and when you book. 

On long-haul routes like London to Hong Kong, one-way economy tickets start at around £680, on par with competitors such as British Airways and Emirates. 

In an ideal world, we’d all be flying first class, champagne in hand, because we’re worth it, no?

But in the real world, value matters, and Cathay Pacific’s economy product delivers exactly that: comfort, quality, and a sense that you’re getting more than you paid for. 

Let’s get into it, starting with the seats.

As economy goes, they are exceptionally comfortable, supportive and spacious enough for long-haul flying, with space in front that doesn’t make you want to sand down your knees for extra room.

The arm rests are wide enough that I don’t need to wrestle with the passenger to my left, the adjustable headrest sturdy enough that I can snuggle into it when I feel ready for a kip.

Then there’s the entertainment. Cathay’s StudioCX system is overwhelming, in the best possible way.

The catalogue is so extensive that I jot down a list of films I want to watch in my Notes app and go from there. There are too many to choose from.

On to the food. After my recent visit to the kitchen that provides British Airways’ meals from Heathrow, my heart still belongs to BA when it comes to airline grub.

Cathay Pacific isn’t quite as good, but it does come close.

For the main dish, you can choose between a Hong Kong style pork or fish dish with rice, or a more English style chicken and roasted vegetable dish.

I opt for the pork and rice which is ok, not great, just about satisfactory. Near to arrival in Hong Kong, breakfast brings the option of a prawn congee (a sort of Asian rice pudding) or scrambled eggs.

Here, I go for the more authentic Hong Kong experience and have the congee, which was probably not the best choice as it was less rice pudding and more of a thick lukewarm prawn soup – not very appetising at 7am but fun to try nonetheless.

The standout moment arrives at that notorious midpoint of a long-haul flight. You know the one: it’s 3am in the country you’ve departed from, your body clock feels like a compass trying to find north, and you’re trying to calculate the most strategic moment to sleep to outsmart jet lag, all while slowly descending into a stuffy, mildly claustrophobic delirium.

I need something.

After clambering over the two passengers in the middle and aisle seats, I ask a wonderfully polite flight attendant for advice. Her response is immediate: a cup of noodle soup.

This, I learn, is a complimentary snack Cathay Pacific offers to all passengers, even in economy.

As well as the cup of soup, passengers can make the most of complimentary alcohol, soft drinks and other snack items such as crisps and fruit.

Five minutes after returning to my seat, a steaming receptacle arrives.

Nothing revolutionary, it’s essentially instant ramen, but it is warm, brothy, and exactly what my heart desires. I settle back, put a movie on, and within 20 minutes, I am asleep.

The perfect food coma, and perhaps the most convincing argument I can make for why Cathay Pacific’s economy cabin is world-class.

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