The Wing, First reopens in Hong Kong
Welcome back to The Wing, First – Cathay's flagship First class lounge at Hong Kong International Airport – where thoughtful details, elevated dining and our signature hospitality come together to leave you relaxed and ready to fly. The Wing, First sets a global benchmark – blending residential warmth and contemporary sophistication. Step inside to experience crafted comfort, refined dining, curated wellness experiences and our signature Cathay hospitality.
Redesigned for First class comfort: a decade of evolution
From 22 April, we’re delighted to welcome back passengers and members to our refreshed flagship First class lounge at Hong Kong International Airport. Located on the east side of Terminal 1 nearby gates 1 to 4, The Wing, First is open daily from 5.30am until the final departure of the day.
Designed by Studioilse , our long-standing London-based design partner, the project represents the first major update to our flagship Hong Kong airport lounges in a decade and signals the direction of our future enhancements across the network. The reimagined layout combines a peaceful, residential-like sensibility with regionally sourced materials, alongside subtle scent and lighting schemes that evolve throughout the day.
Cathay hospitality meets contemporary design
“We gathered insights from our customers and worked closely with our airport and service teams from the outset,” says Guillaume Vivet, General Manager Customer Experience Design at Cathay. “That collaboration ensured every design choice supported the way our people deliver Cathay hospitality every day.”
While many of our lounges have evolved over the past decade towards a more residential approach, this marks a significant shift for The Wing, First. “Our aim was to create a sense of intimacy and ease,” explains Studioilse Founder and Creative Director Ilse Crawford. “We found that’s what makes people feel at home.”
Vivet adds: “The space feels comfortable, while remaining distinctly First class and unmistakably Cathay.”
From the moment you arrive, a warm welcome sets the tone. Cathay lounge ambassadors await to greet you at twin reception podiums, while our signature lounge scent, blending soft woods and white florals, suffuses the air. Other familiar features have been carefully refined – our memorable green onyx counters now appear in a softer palette with brass accents, alongside grounding granite details which honour Guangdong’s time-honoured love of the material. Hand crafted walnut panels, bespoke furnishings and layered lighting foster a distinctive, friendly ambience.
In the Alcove, artworks by Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland and international artists lend character. Over in the Foyer, a grand bookshelf welcomes travellers to unwind with a new read before their flight.
Dual culinary experiences: Atrium Bar and Hong Kong-inspired dining
Dining at The Wing, First meets you at your pace, with two distinct culinary settings to suit different moments. At the centre of the lounge, a winding bar anchors the Atrium, a lively yet composed space that transitions smoothly from breakfast to afternoon tea to evening bistro service.
For a more intimate experience, the Dining Room serves a rotating menu of Hong Kong flavours, regional Chinese classics and international favourites. From Cathay signatures such as our much-loved dan dan noodles to nourishing breakfasts, wellness sets and plant-based options, freshness and variety are the focus. Seasonal collaborations with acclaimed restaurant partners like the award-winning Mott 32 make every visit feel special.
Wellness and business amenities: massage, showers, and workspaces
For a wellness boost, escape to one of seven massage treatment booths – pre-bookable for First class travellers and Diamond members, or freshen up in state of the art shower suites featuring multiple shower modes, adjustable lighting and luxury amenities including Bamford products.
The Bureau – our dedicated work zone – offers two fully enclosed work rooms with acoustic panels, privacy glass and dual lighting configurations to support different work modes: “engaged” and “focused”. Enhanced flight information displays provide clear gate details and walking times for a smooth onward transition.
“Our goal is for customers to reconnect – with the space and with the people within it. Great design and personalised service give you the sense of care, and all that’s brought to life by our people – our lounge ambassadors, our service teams,” says Vivet.
Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, The Wing, First offers you comfort and connection – a reminder that, even in transit, you’re always welcome home.
Who can access The Wing, First
We currently welcome Cathay Pacific First class passengers and all Cathay Diamond members to The Wing, First. During the initial reopening period, we anticipate strong demand from our members and passengers. To ensure that we maintain our high standard of service at this time, we temporarily invite oneworld Emerald members to visit our lounge at The Pier, First or other Cathay Pacific and oneworld lounges at Hong Kong International Airport.
Visit our Lounge admittance page for more details.
Hours and location
The Wing, First is located close to gates 1 to 4 on the east side of Terminal 1 at Hong Kong International Airport. The lounge operates daily from 5:30am until the final departure of the day.