Cathay Pacific Unveils Nostalgic 80th Anniversary Retro Livery

Published on December 27, 2025

Hong Kong is welcoming back a piece of its soul. A beautiful Airbus A350-900 of Cathay Pacific now wears the colors of a golden era. This plane is a flying love letter to the city. It connects the fast-paced future with a warm, cherished past. Every traveler who sees it will feel the pulse of the Orient. It reminds us why we fell in love with travel in the first place. This is not just a plane; it is a memory taking flight.

A Tribute to the Golden Age

Cathay Pacific is preparing for its 80th birthday in 2026. To celebrate, the airline painted an Airbus A350-900 in a “retro” style. This design served the airline from 1971 to 1994. Fans call it the “Lettuce Leaf” or “Lettuce Sandwich” livery. It features bold Brunswick Green stripes on a crisp white body. The tail stands out with its classic white horizontal bands.

This look defines the “Golden Age” of aviation in Hong Kong. It reminds people of the famous Kai Tak Airport. Planes used to fly low over city rooftops. It was a sight that defined global tourism for decades. The new aircraft, registered as B-LQC, now carries a large “80” logo. This marks eight decades of connecting Hong Kong to the world.

Boosting Tourism Through Nostalgia

The Hong Kong Tourism Board often highlights the city’s unique heritage. This aircraft acts as a mobile ambassador for that history. Tourism experts believe “nostalgia marketing” draws high-value visitors. People want to experience the glamour of classic air travel.

The retro livery creates an emotional bond with international travelers. It invites them to rediscover Hong Kong’s evolving skyline. The aircraft will fly to London, New York, and Sydney. These are key markets for the city’s tourism recovery. Every landing is an advertisement for the city’s hospitality.

Modern Comfort Meets Classic Style

The 80th-anniversary celebration is about more than just paint. Cathay Pacific is upgrading the entire travel experience. New lounges are opening in New York JFK and Shenzhen. These facilities offer world-class luxury to every guest.

The airline is also introducing new lie-flat beds on regional flights. These upgrades align with government goals to enhance the visitor experience. Better comfort leads to longer stays and higher spending. Tourism thrives when the journey is as good as the destination.

A Legacy of Connectivity

Government records show Cathay Pacific started in 1946. It began with a single DC-3 plane named “Betsy.” Since then, it has helped Hong Kong become a global aviation hub. The Civil Aviation Department emphasizes the importance of a strong home carrier.

A spokesperson for the airline noted that the livery honors their roots. They stated that the company remains committed to the city’s future. They mentioned that the “80” branding symbolizes resilience and growth. The airline expects this plane to inspire a new generation of explorers.

Connecting the Greater Bay Area

The new livery also supports the Greater Bay Area tourism plan. By opening a lounge in Shekou, Cathay bridges the gap between cities. This makes travel smoother for millions of people. It encourages multi-destination trips within the region.

The A350-900 is one of the most fuel-efficient planes today. It proves that heritage and sustainability can work together. This balance is vital for the modern tourism industry. It shows that Hong Kong is ready for the next 80 years.

A Symbol of Hope and Renewal

This aircraft is a beacon of hope for the travel industry. It signals that Hong Kong is open and vibrant. Travelers are looking for authentic stories and cultural icons. The “Lettuce Leaf” livery provides exactly that. It turns a standard flight into a historic event.

The sight of this plane will spark joy in every terminal. It represents the spirit of a city that never stops dreaming. This anniversary is a celebration for every person who loves to fly. It invites the world to come and see the magic of Hong Kong again.

We invite you to look up at the sky and smile. This green and white beauty carries the dreams of millions. It connects our history to the adventures waiting for us tomorrow. Travel is about more than moving from place to place. It is about the stories we share and the bonds we build. As this plane circles the globe, it carries the warm heart of Hong Kong. We cannot wait to welcome you on board this beautiful journey.