Cathay Pacific Airways accepted its first Airbus A350-1000 aircraft this month, the first of 20 ordered. The aircraft is the world’s newest long-range wide-body airliner. It provides enhanced comfort for travelers, including more personal space and fresh air, as well as greater control over temperature and humidity and the latest-generation entertainment system. The aircraft joins Cathay Pacific’s current A350 fleet, which includes 22 A350-900 aircraft.

With its long-range capability, the aircraft is slated for Cathay Pacific’s new non-stop route between Hong Kong (HKG) and Washington, D.C. (IAD). It is the longest flight performed by any airline out of Hong Kong at 17 hours.

“We already have one of the youngest long-haul fleets in the sky, and with the arrival of the A350-1000, our fleet is only going to get younger. The aircraft follows the successful entry of the A350-900 variant which has enabled us to expand our long-haul network at a near unprecedented rate. The A350-1000 has an incredible range, is remarkably fuel efficient and quiet, provides customers with an unsurpassed cabin environment and has extremely attractive operating economics,” commented Paul Loo, chief customer and commercial officer, Cathay Pacific.

“We are proud to deliver the A350-1000 to our long-standing customer Cathay Pacific. Bringing major advantages in fuel and cost efficiency along with unrivalled passenger comfort, the A350-1000 is the perfect platform for Cathay Pacific to increase capacity on some of its longest routes. The combination of the world’s newest widebody and Cathay Pacific’s world famous in-flight service will ensure that the airline can strengthen its position even further as one of the world’s leading international carriers,” added Eric Schulz, chief commercial officer, Airbus.