By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated June 2026
The short answer: Cathay Pacific Asia Miles went five years without a devaluation, then raised its distance-based award chart on October 1, 2023, with premium-cabin awards rising 20 to 30 percent while a few economy fares actually got cheaper. It was a relatively restrained devaluation by industry standards, but the best premium value did take a step back.
Five years, then a chart hike
Cathay Pacific Asia Miles kept its distance-based award chart stable for about five years, which made it a dependable way to book Cathay premium cabins and Oneworld partners. That changed on October 1, 2023, when Cathay moved to a new chart that raised prices and restructured its distance zones, splitting short flights into two bands and merging long flights into one. See Cathay booking guide.
Premium up, some economy down
The increases concentrated on premium cabins, which rose roughly 8 to 29 percent, with medium and long-haul business and first taking the biggest hit. A business class award from Hong Kong to the West Coast of North America went from 70,000 to 84,000 Asia Miles, a 20 percent rise. Some economy awards actually fell, such as medium-haul going from 22,000 to 20,000 miles, so it was not a blanket cut. See Cathay business guide.
A restrained devaluation
By the standards of Delta, Emirates, or Avianca, Cathay devaluation was measured, keeping a chart and even lowering some economy prices. Asia Miles remain useful for Cathay and Oneworld premium travel, especially the well-priced business cabin, just at somewhat higher prices than before. Book premium awards when you find them and treat the chart as likely to rise again over time. See the devaluation overview.
Frequently asked questions
Did Cathay Asia Miles devalue?
Yes, on October 1, 2023, its first devaluation in five years. Premium-cabin awards rose roughly 20 to 30 percent, with business and first hit hardest, while some economy awards actually got cheaper.
How much did Cathay business class go up?
Around 20 percent on key routes. Hong Kong to the West Coast of North America in business rose from 70,000 to 84,000 Asia Miles. Premium cabins generally increased 8 to 29 percent in the October 2023 change.
Does Cathay still use an award chart?
Yes, a distance-based chart, which it restructured in 2023 by splitting short flights into two bands and merging long flights into one. The chart keeps pricing predictable even after the increases.
Are Asia Miles still worth it?
Yes, especially for Cathay well-regarded business cabin and Oneworld premium travel. The 2023 devaluation was restrained compared with other programs, and a chart still provides predictability.
Bryce Casson, Founder of Cardocrat. Every card is ranked by what it actually returns, with all points valued at a flat 1 cent and offers verified against issuer sources. About the author.
