‍BEIJING — Cathay Pacific (CX) has opened its redesigned flagship lounge at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK). 

The renovation is part of the airline’s ongoing investment in Mainland China, aiming to provide passengers with a more comfortable and practical experience.

Human-Focused Design

According to the airline, the redesigned lounge is meant to feel less like a normal airport and more like a place where you can relax and spend some time. Oversized windows and well-placed roofing let in plenty of natural light, and cherry wood with limestone finishes adds a warm, welcoming touch.

Instead of the usual reception counters, podium-style check-ins, and Lounge Ambassadors meet passengers personally, giving the space a friendlier, human vibe.

Dining Options

The lounge now has three main dining areas:

• Noodle Bar: Serving wonton, dan dan noodles, and Beijing bean paste noodles.
• Food Hall: A bright open space with hot dishes, fresh salads, and baked goods.
• Teahouse: Premium Chinese teas prepared by tea specialists to order.

You can grab something quick if short on time, or just sit and enjoy the food for a while.

Relaxation, Privacy

The lounge features a Terrace with an open ceiling that lets in natural light and creates a calm, relaxed atmosphere. Solo Chairs are spread around so passengers can have some privacy but still feel part of the lounge. Even when busy, it doesn’t feel cramped.

Part of the airline’s “Gallery in the Skies” initiative, the lounge also has contemporary calligraphy and playful illustrations on boarding passes. It gives passengers something fascinating to look at while they wait.

Comparison with Other Cathay Pacific Lounges

Beijing’s lounge borrows ideas from Cathay Pacific’s flagship lounges in Hong Kong (HKG) and Shanghai (PVG) but has been adjusted to local needs.

Shanghai lounges are more about speed and efficiency for business travelers. At the same time, Beijing tries to combine comfort with a bit of culture, making it feel more welcoming for long-haul passengers.

Compared with Hong Kong, which is bigger and handles more transit passengers, Beijing focuses on comfort, quieter spaces, and some cultural touches. You can also have a read on Hong Kong’s first-class lounge experience as described by Simone Chellini from Airways.

Future Plans

The redesign hints that Cathay Pacific will continue updating lounges across its network. Renovations are expected in Shanghai, Guangzhou, and other major Asian airports.

The airline is also exploring new services, including dedicated workspaces, wellness zones, and technology-driven features like automated ordering and personalized dining and seating recommendations.

Loyalty, Passenger Experience

Flagship lounges are not just about comfort; they’re also key to loyalty. Members of Marco Polo Club and Asia Miles programs enjoy exclusive access and perks, making their travel experience smoother.

High-quality lounges help CX encourage repeat travel, reinforce its premium image, and stand out from competitors. Passengers on long-haul flights can spend hours here, so comfort, privacy, and good service matter, which the airline claims to have.

Comments from Cathay CEO

Cathay Pacific Group CEO Ronald Lam said, “We are very excited to reopen the doors of our latest flagship Beijing lounge. It shows our deep roots in Hong Kong, our connection to China, and our goal to connect the world.”

Looking Forward

The redesigned lounge blends cultural touches, comfort, and convenience, and sets a standard for future expansions. It also shows Cathay Pacific’s commitment to improving passenger experience in Mainland China while holding its place as a premium airline in a competitive market.

Stay tuned to Airways and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates.