Hong Kong Cathay Pacific plans to buy back 9.6% of its shares Sold to Qatar Airways in 2017subject to shareholder approval.
The proposed purchase price was US$896.5 million; Qatar purchased the stake for US$662 million.
Cathay Pacific Group Chairman Healy said: “This buyback reflects our strong confidence in the future of Cathay Pacific Group and highlights our commitment to the development of Hong Kong as an international aviation hub.”
Cathay Pacific has suffered long-term losses during the pandemic, which were further exacerbated by the massive protests and political conflicts that preceded the pandemic, as well as Hong Kong becoming one of the last global destinations to lift pandemic travel restrictions in April 2023.
This share repurchase plan follows Strong post-pandemic recovery. In the first half of 2025, Cathay Pacific Group (including Cathay Pacific Airways and low-cost airline Hong Kong Express) reported a profit of US$476 million, which was its third consecutive profit in the first half of the year.
Cathay Pacific flights have also resumed. The airline flew 12.4% more seats in the 12 months to October than in the 12 months to October 2019, according to Cirium.
Qatar Airways has invested in a number of airlines: Virgin AustraliaLATAM Airlines, JSX, South African Airlink and International Airlines Group (parent of British Airways, Iberia, Vueling, Level and Aer Lingus).
Qatar CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer said the time was right to sell Cathay Pacific shares.
“Following a period of record profitability and strong results, this decision is part of an aggressive strategy to optimize our investments and position the group for long-term growth,” he said.
Cathay Pacific and Qatar Airways will continue to work together as partners in the oneworld alliance.
