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Cathay Pacific safety rating

Cathay Pacific scores 9.1 / 10 on the CalmFlights safety index, based on fatal-accident history, fleet age, pilot training hours and independent audits.

Safety rating
9.1/10
Fatal accidents (jet era)
0
Fleet size
180
Years operating
80

Why nervous flyers ask about Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific has never had a passenger fatality in jet operations. Its pilot training program is considered one of the most rigorous in Asia.

By the numbers

  • Founded: 1946 (80 years operating)
  • Fleet size: 180 aircraft
  • Average fleet age: 10.3 years
  • Cumulative flights flown: 4.9 million
  • Fatal accidents (jet era): 0
  • Years since last fatal incident: never had one
  • Average pilot command hours: 13,500
  • Certifications: IOSA certified · 7-star AirlineRatings
  • Incidents in the last 5 years: 0

How it compares

A safety rating of 9.1 places Cathay Pacific in the upper tier of major carriers. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines hovers around 8.4.

What this means for you

Cathay Pacific has never had a fatal jet-era passenger incident. That's the best possible outcome — there is nothing in the safety record to be alarmed about.

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Data accuracy: Figures above are compiled from publicly reported sources including the Aviation Safety Network, ICAO, EASA, FAA and airline annual reports. Numbers are refreshed periodically and may lag recent events by several months. For authoritative accident-investigation conclusions, consult the relevant national investigation board (NTSB, BEA, AAIB, JTSB, TSB Canada, etc).

Frequently asked questions

Is Cathay Pacific safe to fly?
Yes. Cathay Pacific scores 9.1/10 on the CalmFlights safety index. It has never had a fatal jet-era passenger incident. Pilot command hours average 13,500, and the airline holds IOSA certified · 7-star AirlineRatings certifications.
When was Cathay Pacific founded?
Cathay Pacific was founded in 1946 and has been operating for 80 years. It currently flies a fleet of 180 aircraft with an average age of 10.3 years.
How does Cathay Pacific's safety record compare to other airlines?
Cathay Pacific's safety rating of 9.1 places it in the upper tier of major carriers. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines is around 8.4. Over 4.9 million cumulative flights, the carrier has had 0 fatal incidents.
How old is Cathay Pacific's fleet?
Cathay Pacific's fleet averages 10.3 years old. This is around the global average; older aircraft are still extremely well-maintained under strict regulatory inspection cycles.
How many incidents has Cathay Pacific had recently?
Cathay Pacific has reported 0 non-fatal operational incidents in the last 5 years. Note that "incident" in aviation often means minor events like engine warnings or runway excursions — most never reach passenger awareness. The fatal-accident count remains a more meaningful safety signal.