Inside The Bridge: Cathay Pacific’s Reimagined Business Class Lounge
Relaxing at Hong Kong International Airport.
The beauty of The Bridge—Cathay Pacific’s newly renovated business class lounge at Hong Kong International Airport—is that it doesn’t feel like an airport lounge at all.
First launched in 2013, The Bridge closed during the pandemic and reopened this past May after undergoing extensive upgrades. The changes give the space an inviting, warm, and residential feel, with neutral colours, cherry woods, black granites, and plush fabrics allowing guests to sink into the relaxed feel of the space. Entered by riding down a private escalator, The Bridge is an immersion into the Cathay brand—but also into the very idea that an airport lounge, if crafted with care, can be so much more than a traveller holding pen.
The walls are adorned with original artworks created by renowned artists and commissioned specially for Cathay for its Gallery in the Skies program (yes, the same artworks are also framed and hung throughout Cathay aircraft). There are also custom-built furniture pieces, including the Solo Chair: a large, high-backed armchair that comes with its own side table, power sockets, and built-in lights for cozy alone time.
The Bridge is made up of two separate wings, which are connected by a reception desk—featuring a baggage check for easy roaming—in the middle. To the left-hand side, guests can enjoy an iconic Cathay lounge amenity that is beloved at locations around the world: The Noodle Bar. Serving crowd-favourite dan dan noodles and wonton noodles along with a rotating selection of dim sum and regional Chinese dishes—plus a few Bridge exclusives—it’s a must-visit during any Cathay lounge visit.
This side of The Bridge also features The Nook: a brand-new concept that features Chinese regional small plates, made-to-order bao, and a custom-built dim sum cart that is restocked with delicacies throughout the day. A specialty tea bar offering a wide selection of hot teas rounds out the culinary options. This wing also features relaxation areas, including a few private rooms for larger groups, which are perfect for some quiet time after indulging in the food.
The right-hand side of The Bridge, meanwhile, is reserved for Cathay first class fliers and Diamond members. Here, guests can cozy up at The Bar and order a classic cocktail or recline in a Solo Chair and have champagne brought directly to them. This side also has a designated Food Hall, where diners can try an array of cuisines, including French, American, and, of course, Chinese.
Both sides of The Bridge include spacious showers, a selection of reading materials, ample seating, and Cathay’s signature scent of lavender, bamboo, jasmine, and green tea floating through the air.
It all comes together to create the airport lounge of the future: one where no expense is spared, beauty and functionality coexist, and the guest is paramount.
