How to Fly Cathay Pacific First Class With Points

By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated June 2026

The short answer: Cathay Pacific First Class is a refined, understated product known for caviar, a wide private suite, and excellent service through Hong Kong. You can book it with Cathay own Asia Miles or with Oneworld partners like Alaska and the Avios programs, though First space is limited and rewards persistent searching.

What Cathay First Class is

Cathay First on the 777-300ER is a small, exclusive cabin with just a handful of wide private suites, caviar and fine wine service, and a calm, polished feel. It is one of the best ways to fly to and through Asia, especially via the excellent Cathay lounges in Hong Kong.

Booking it with Asia Miles or partners

Cathay own program, Asia Miles, can book its First Class, and as a Oneworld carrier Cathay is also bookable with Alaska Mileage Plan, American AAdvantage, and Avios through British Airways or Qatar. Alaska has long been a favorite for Cathay First value. Avios transfer from most banks plus Rove, and Asia Miles from several. See Cathay booking guide and Avios guide.

Finding the space

Cathay First is a tiny cabin, so award space is limited and often opens close to departure or in small batches, which means setting alerts and staying flexible. Compare pricing across Alaska, Avios, and AAdvantage, since each charges differently. See finding award space.

Who it is for

Cathay First suits travelers to Asia who value understated luxury and the Hong Kong lounges, and who will hunt for limited space across several programs. Award prices and availability change constantly as programs devalue and adjust, so treat every points figure here as a rough, illustrative guide rather than a guarantee. Always confirm the current price and that an award seat is actually available on the airline own site before you transfer points, since transfers are one-way and cannot be reversed.

Frequently asked questions

Which miles book Cathay Pacific First Class?

Cathay own Asia Miles, plus Oneworld partners like Alaska Mileage Plan, American AAdvantage, and Avios through British Airways or Qatar. Alaska has long been popular for Cathay First value.

Is Cathay First Class award space hard to find?

Yes, because it is a small cabin with only a few suites, so space is limited and often opens close to departure. Set alerts, stay flexible, and check several partner programs.

Can I use Avios for Cathay First?

Yes. Avios through British Airways or Qatar can book Cathay First, and Avios transfer from American Express, Chase, Citi, and Capital One, plus Rove, making them easy to gather.

What makes Cathay First Class special?

A small, private cabin with wide suites, caviar and fine wine, polished service, and superb Cathay lounges in Hong Kong, making it one of the best ways to fly through Asia.

Which Cathay aircraft has First Class?

Only certain 777-300ERs are fitted with First, a small part of the fleet. Most Cathay long-haul aircraft have only business, so confirm the flight shows a First cabin before you transfer.