Cathay Pacific has released details of it’s refurbishment of the new First Class via a press release, and it looks pretty nice as CX already has a very strong first class product. The 747’s are not being retrofitted as they are being retired.

Here are some pictures:

At first glance it looks like the colour scheme really matches the new design at the HKG lounge, given that they are using the same designers as they did for the renovated “The Wing” lounge (Fosters + Partners).

The entire seat is going to be refurbished and this is what the press release says:

A highly glossy dark grey textured material is featured on the outer surface of the suite, while warm-tone natural leather is used extensively on most interior surfaces for a luxurious feel and soft touch. The new side console and the interior of the suite are all wrapped in natural leather, with subtle linings, refined stitching and fewer panels for a more clean and sophisticated look. Leather pads with subtle stitching are also introduced on latches to provide a softer touch. The seat fabric is custom-made with a specially selected combination of materials that is soft and smooth to touch.

Complementing the new design and adding an element of interest to the cabin, hand-crafted sculptural artworks have been installed. These individual artworks, made of copper and steel and created by Maria Lobo and Linda Leviton, have been individually etched and painted by hand, with a harmonious colour palette.

Other features include:

• Improvements including an adjustable tray table and additional storage for personal items and closet space
• 4.3″ touch screen LCD controller to control IFE and new personal lights
• Renovated washroom with new basins and countertops
• New Bose QuietComfort 15 Headphones
• New Pajamas by PYE (made with 100% organic cotton)
• Improved bedding and new 500-thread count pillows, cushions, and duvets

The amenity kits are staying with Emerengildo Zegna/Acca Kappa products and Trussardi/Aesop products.

Cathay Pacific is a great first class product and the refresh is only going to make it even better, especially since it is extremely accessible with AA/BA miles both close-in and far out.

It is really unfortunate only neither YYZ nor the YVR (daytime flight) has First Class, and the only option from Canada is the CX888/889 that is only great for sleeping, in my opinion.

CX says The first Boeing 777-300ER aircraft with the upgraded First Class is due to enter service on 26 July 2013. Which is … tomorrow. I wonder what route it is going to get put on. The entire cabin refresh project is scheduled to be completed by the third quarter of 2014.