Review: Cathay Pacific CX881 - LAX ✈ HKG First Class Report

I was very pleased, there are a lot of Firsts with this flight. First Flight of our big trip ‘Round The World. First Time on Cathay in over 30 years. And First Class on Cathay Pacific, a winning combination.

At first, upon entering the 777-300ER, the First Class Seat/Pods are bit drab and underwhelming… they look big, but the color selections, boring. But the seats are super comfy once you get in, it becomes a much more inviting area. Except for the slightly small foot rest areas, the overall design of the seating is excellent. The closet space behind the TV, is very roomy and you can put all your your carry-ons and jacket in with ease unlike the BA First Class. The little compartment for the Headphones is the only thing that wasn’t thought out that well, other than that a great space. And, even without any doors, it felt VERY private the entire trip.

Upon being seated, I was served the standard champagne (Krug) and warmed nuts. I pre-reserved the Lobster for dinner, and glad I did since they only had two per flight. And I was anticipating some great rice, since Cathay has their own rice cooker on board. After take off, the meal service began, and the Caviar serving was great, though I would need a few more blinis, The Stir-Fried Lobster was quite good and the rice, a bit dry I thought, but had good flavor and quality.

Dinner over, time for bed. The Cathay pajamas are comfy with a Chinese styling, good for the flight, but nothing you feel you want to take home. Bedding super comfy and being that this flight departed after midnight, I was sleeping right away. I probably would have slept most of the night, except for the turbulence, but can’t really blame an airline for that. Late night snack of the Beef Burger which was delicious (usually don’t eat beef, but have been training my stomach for Argentina). Dozed a bit more, and before I knew it, time for breakfast.

Cathay prepares their egg dishes onboard to order, so I had a scrambled egg with mostly whites, and the smoothie and fruit. The fresh brewed coffee was surprisingly good. And then time to get ready for landing and find The Celestial, who I sent ahead on CX883 which left 2 hours before CX881. Landing in HKG was just after dawn, so it was a lovely early morning light and made for some #AVGeek style plane spotting while taxiing. Deplaned and went straight off to the Pier which was by the gate for the flight to take us on to Denpasar.

A really wonderful beginning to our adventure, and a big thanks to Connie and Eisel, who took great care of me on a fantastic flight. Money well spent!