Cathay Pacific apologises after HK passenger and ill wife downgraded from business class due to aircraft change
A Hong Kong resident, Mr Ho, experienced considerable disruption while returning from Canada with Cathay Pacific after purchasing business class tickets for himself and his unwell wife.
9th August 2026 – (Hong Kong) A Hong Kong resident, Mr Ho, experienced considerable disruption while returning from Canada with Cathay Pacific after purchasing business class tickets for himself and his unwell wife. Unexpectedly, the aircraft type was changed at short notice, resulting in a reallocation of their seats, which left the couple separated. Prior to boarding, Mr Ho was informed that the business class cabin was now full and, without warning, he was forcibly downgraded to premium economy. The difficulties did not end there. The couple endured several rounds of seat rearrangement at the airport and were even encouraged by staff to consider switching to flights on alternative carriers. Mr Ho declined these offers in order to remain with his wife and ensure her wellbeing, but was ultimately forced to board separately. The protracted ordeal caused considerable distress to Mrs Ho, who suffers from a heart condition, leading her to feel faint and experience hand tremors, and she eventually required the assistance of airport staff and a wheelchair to rest. Cathay Pacific later explained that the unexpected change in aircraft was necessitated by a typhoon, which reduced the available business class seats. Frontline staff sought volunteers to give up their places in business class but were unable to secure any, making it necessary to downgrade two passengers. The airline has issued an apology for the inconvenience and assured Mr Ho that he will receive a refund for the price difference between the classes as well as additional compensation in line with company policy.