Airline vs Airline
QantasvsCathay Pacific
Business Class
0 shared routes · OneWorld vs OneWorld
A
QantasOneWorld
B
Cathay PacificOneWorld
Seat & Cabin Specs
| Feature | Qantas | Cathay Pacific |
|---|---|---|
| Product | Business Suite (Project Sunrise) | Business Class |
| Alliance | OneWorld | OneWorld |
| Seat Type | Lie-flat Suite with Door (Vantage XL) | Lie-flat Reverse Herringbone (Cirrus III) |
| Layout | 1-2-1 | 1-2-1 |
| Bed Length | 80 inches | 75 inches |
| Seat Width | 20-24 inches | 20 inches |
| Screen | 16-inch | 18-inch |
| Privacy | ✓ Door | Open suite |
| Rating | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Avg. Price | $3,000 | $3,000 |
Qantas
Business Suite (Project Sunrise)
Qantas is about to redefine ultra-long-haul business class with Project Sunrise — non-stop Sydney to London and New York on the new Airbus A350-1000, launching in early 2027. The next-generation Business Suite features enclosed suites with closing doors, larger IFE screens, and a dedicated wellness zone designed for 19+ hour flights. Combined with Neil Perry-curated dining, an impressive wine program, and Qantas' world-class Sydney and Melbourne lounges, Project Sunrise positions Qantas as a genuine contender against Qatar Airways' QSuite and Singapore Airlines on the world's longest routes.
Lounge: Qantas Business Lounge — Located in Sydney and Melbourne, featuring barista coffee, Neil Perry-inspired dining, shower suites, and relaxation areas. The Qantas First Lounge in Sydney is world-class for eligible passengers.
Project Sunrise A350-1000 (launching early 2027)Next-gen Business Suite with doorNeil Perry DiningSommelier selectionQantas Pyjamas
Cathay Pacific
Business Class
Cathay Pacific positions its business class as a refined, understated alternative to the more flashy Gulf carriers — prioritizing consistent service, wide-body comfort, and Hong Kong's unmatched geographic position as a gateway between Asia, Australia, and North America. The product sits solidly in the upper-middle tier of Asian business class offerings, competitive with Singapore Airlines and Japan Airlines rather than chasing the suite-style extravagance of Qatar's Qsuite.
Lounge: The Pier Business Class Lounge — Located at Hong Kong International Airport, featuring the famous Noodle Bar, The Pier Bar, day suites, shower rooms, and a serene ambiance. Widely regarded as one of the world's finest business lounges.
Reverse Herringbone SeatStudioCX EntertainmentBamford AmenitiesPier/Wing Lounges
Expert Take: Qantas vs Cathay Pacific
When comparing Qantas vs Cathay Pacific business class, both airlines deliver premium long-haul experiences with distinct advantages. Qantas operates its Business Suite on A380s and 787 Dreamliners, featuring fully lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 configuration with direct aisle access for every passenger. Cathay Pacific counters with its Business Class seat on A350s and 777s, also in 1-2-1 reverse herringbone layout, though the forward-facing design on newer A350s provides exceptional privacy with fixed wings and doors.
Privacy decisively favors Cathay Pacific, whose enclosed suites offer superior seclusion compared to Qantas's more open seating arrangement. However, Qantas dominates in catering quality, with Neil Perry-designed menus showcasing premium Australian ingredients and arguably the finest wine selection at altitude, featuring prestigious labels like Rockford Basket Press. Cathay's dining remains solid but less memorable.
Lounge access sees Qantas's First Class lounges in Sydney and Melbourne outshine most competitors with à la carte dining and spa treatments, while Cathay's The Pier and The Wing lounges in Hong Kong deliver excellent noodle bars and expansive spaces. For frequent flyers, Qantas Frequent Flyer provides easier redemption on oneworld partners and valuable domestic benefits, whereas Cathay's Asia Miles offers better value for premium cabin awards throughout Asia.
Cathay Pacific wins for travelers prioritizing privacy and Asian connectivity, while Qantas claims victory for passengers valuing exceptional food, wine, and Australia-focused travel.
Expert Verdict
Choose Cathay Pacific for the superior cabin experience (8.9/10). Choose Qantas if value matters most — fares average ~$3,000 on shared routes.
Choose Qantas if…
- ✓Thompson Aero Vantage seats with direct aisle access and fully flat beds on the 787-9 fleet
- ✓Neil Perry-curated 'Spirit of Australia' dining program with strong Australian wine selections
- ✓Excellent Sydney and Melbourne Qantas lounges, including access to the exclusive Chairman's Lounge for eligible members
Choose Cathay Pacific if…
- ✓1-2-1 reverse-herringbone seating ensures direct aisle access and full privacy on every long-haul flight
- ✓Strong Hong Kong hub with multiple business class lounges including The Pier and The Bridge
- ✓Cantonese-forward dining program with a well-regarded, MW-curated wine list
Private Quote
Save 30-50%Unpublished rates for .
From
City or Airport
To
City or Airport
How should your travel manager reach you?
🇺🇸 +1
Encrypted
No Obligation
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number, you consent to receive calls or texts regarding your travel quote.
Related Comparisons
Qantas vs Cathay Pacific: FAQ
Is Qantas or Cathay Pacific business class better?▾
Choose Cathay Pacific for the superior cabin experience (8.9/10). Choose Qantas if value matters most — fares average ~$3,000 on shared routes.
Which has better seats, Qantas or Cathay Pacific?▾
Qantas features Business Suite (Project Sunrise) with 1-2-1 layout and privacy doors. Cathay Pacific offers Business Class in a 1-2-1 configuration. Qantas beds are 80 inches; Cathay Pacific beds are 75 inches.
How do Qantas and Cathay Pacific compare on price?▾
On shared routes, Qantas averages $3,000 while Cathay Pacific averages $3,000 round-trip. Through BestBusinessClass.com, you can save an additional 20–40% on either carrier.
What routes do Qantas and Cathay Pacific both serve?▾
Qantas and Cathay Pacific share 0 destinations in our network.
Ready to Book Business Class?
Our travel experts have access to unpublished fares not available online.
Save up to 40% on business class flights.
No obligationIndustry accreditedAvailable 24/7