Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd (HK: 00293) has released its interim results for the first half of 2026, reporting a robust financial performance.

Revenue for the period reached HK$68.06 billion, representing a 25.3% increase compared to the same period last year. Profit attributable to shareholders of the Cathay Group surged 71% to HK$6.24 billion. Earnings per share stood at 99.5 Hong Kong cents, with an interim ordinary dividend of 26 Hong Kong cents per share declared.

The group's strong performance in the first half of 2026 was driven by sustained robust core demand for both Cathay Pacific and Cathay Cargo, improved results from HK Express, and a higher contribution from associated companies. Compared to the first half of 2025, the group carried more passengers and cargo while operating more flights.

Following a strong start in the first quarter, the group faced more challenging conditions in the second quarter due to the situation in the Middle East and the resulting significant surge in jet fuel prices. This caused jet fuel costs to nearly double from the first quarter to the second. The airline introduced measures to mitigate some of the increased costs, including adjusting passenger and cargo fuel surcharges. The ability to achieve these results under such circumstances underscores the operational resilience the group has built in recent years.