Cathay Cargo Expands Freighter Capacity to the US and Mexico
Cathay Cargo has increased its transpacific freighter capacity between Hong Kong International Airport and key destinations in the Americas, including Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles and Mexico. The expansion aims to accommodate growing demand for technology-related shipments during the peak air cargo season.
The airline has introduced additional capacity, with five weekly freighter flights serving these markets during the seasonal expansion running from September through December 2026. The decision reflects strong demand for semiconductor products and data centre equipment transported from Asia to North America.
According to Jonathan Ng, Head of Cargo Hub Operations and Development at Cathay, cargo demand remained positive throughout the summer, particularly in technology-related sectors. The airline is focusing on balancing available capacity with increasing shipment volumes while supporting further growth across its transpacific network.
Cathay Cargo is also strengthening its regional operations through subsidiary Air Hong Kong, which is preparing to introduce a leased Airbus A330 passenger-to-freighter aircraft during the fourth quarter of 2026. The additional aircraft will provide greater flexibility and support growing demand for general cargo shipments within Asia.
The expansion comes as air freight demand between Asia and North America continues to rise. According to IATA figures, cargo demand along this trade corridor increased by 13.2% year-on-year in August 2026, marking the seventh consecutive month of growth.
With additional freighter capacity and a strengthened regional network, Cathay Cargo aims to provide freight forwarders and logistics partners with greater flexibility, improved connectivity and more transportation options during the busy year-end shipping season.
Image source: aircargonews.net
