An Epic Flight In “Qatar Pacific” 777 First Class

I have written about the fact that Qatar Airways is currently leasing some of the Boeing 777s from Cathay Pacific. I had the chance to fly one of these from Male to DOHA, and it was amazing. I wanted to post a little bit of a tease.

Flying a Cathay Pacific 777 made me nostalgic

I used to fly Cathay Pacific first class all the time, and pass through Hong Kong multiple times a year. I fear that Hong Kong may never be the same, since that hasn't happened since the start of the Pandemic.

This plane made me nostalgic. I was both excited and sad about what happened to Cathay Pacific.

The jets are being dry leased by Qatar Airways on a long term basis, as the planes have been painted in a quasi-Qatar Airways livery. The pilots and flight attendants are from the same airline.

The interior looked familiar, but with some touches. The cabins have been redecorated, so there is more of a signature burgundy.

The entertainment system has been renamed to reflect the new look of the airline. The entertainment controller was next to the seat control monitor, which was the only sign of Cathay Pacific.

Qatar Airways’ incredible first class soft product

The first class soft product is simply amazing. The flight left at 9PM and arrived around 11PM. I challenge anyone to name an airline that offers a comparable soft product on this route.

There was full bedding and a Diptyque kit at my seat.

There were drinks, a warm towel, and a snack before departure.

There was a 2004 Krug after takeoff. Just some casual $330+ per bottle champagne.

There was a full, beautifully presented service.

There is a delicious mushroom and soup.

There is a traditional Arabic mezze.

A main course of salmon and prawns.

There is a date pudding with ice cream.

I was asked if I wanted turndown service after a leisurely meal on the plane. I would like to change into pajamas for my 45 minute nap.

Does any airline offer this level of soft product on a four hour flight?

We had the entire cabin to ourselves. This was the best use of American AAdvantage miles I have ever had.

Bottom line

The airline has a very small first class footprint, but is known for its incredible business class product. It's a treat to fly these upfront, because they are being leased by Qatar Airways.

I love getting a reminder of Hong Kong, but the first class soft product from Qatar Airways is even better. If you have the chance to fly between the two countries, I would recommend it.

Has anyone flown one of these leased jets in first class?