From its origins as a small regional freight operator established in 1946, Cathay Pacific Airways has grown to become one of the world's top ten air cargo carriers. Cathay Pacific's cargo business currently accounts for almost one third of its total revenue, and helps to enhance Hong Kong's position as the world's busiest air cargo centre. All of Cathay Pacific's cargo operations are grouped under its Cathay Pacific Cargo unit.
A unique feature of Cathay Pacific Airways in Colombo has been the resilience of its Cargo business whenever passenger numbers have been depressed. The Boeing 777-300 operating the route to Hong Kong via Bangkok provides capacity for up to 130 cubic metres of cargo – almost 75% more than a 747 Passenger aircraft can accommodate. Cathay Pacific Airways has long been the preferred choice for Sri Lanka’s strong textile exports to the US as well as Tuna to Japan. This provides for a near perfect mix of high yield cargo.
11th July 2008 was an exciting day for the CX Cargo Team in Colombo with the first visit of CX freighter to the Sri Lankan capital. CX014 diverted from Dubai to pick up two Sri Lankan Airlines aircraft engines, one to Hong Kong and one to Manchester.
