Prior to the opening of the Pier, The Bridge was my favourite spot in Hong Kong’s International airport to spend a layover. With large picture windows and two clear wings to the lounge it had was a spacious quiet corner of the lounge. However the lounge had dated in comparison to the Wing’s new signature design style which had been rolled out across the carrier’s outstations.
However Today, Cathay Pacific once again opened its Bridge doors (well, escalators really) to passengers signalling the start of an entire lounge renovation programme at HKIA. Occupying a prime intersection at the airline’s home hub, The Bridge has been completely redesigned with a host of new, unique features as well as familiar favourites, creating a familiar look and feel while the airline closes its Wing lounges, which will undergo a refurbishment with The Wing, First closed until 2026.
Another of the airline’s Business class lounges, The Deck, is also being enhanced. From 21 May, The Deck will serve as an interim First class lounge during the renovation of The Wing. Eligible customers can also continue visiting The Pier, First and The Pier, Business during this time.
Over the next two years, Cathay Pacific will be launching new flagship lounges in Hong Kong, Beijing and, for the very first time, New York as part of the Cathay Group’s over HK$100 billion investment into new aircraft, cabin products, lounges and digital innovations.
The Bridge is located conveniently near Departure Gate 35 at HKIA’s Terminal 1 where the terminal splits into two piers. The new ‘The Bridge’ lounge continues Cathay Pacific’s human-centric design approach that is already evident at The Pier.
General Manager Customer Experience Design Guillaume Vivet said: “Our goal was to create a space that feels genuinely welcoming — one that reflects our commitment to thoughtful, human-centric design.
“From the furniture and dining to the scent and music, every detail has been carefully considered to enhance comfort and contribute to a relaxed, refined atmosphere. The result is a space where customers can truly unwind – a retreat designed to enrich their journey and leave a lasting impression with every visit.”
There are a few evolutions evident, such as a slightly sleeker long bar than the ones found in Heathrow’s Terminal 3 lounge for example. What’s nice to see is that Cathay has also connected it’s latest Aria onboard product back to the ground experience by featuring original artworks from the airline’s award-winning “Gallery in the Skies” concept. The whole lounge comes together to “foster a residential, cohesive and harmonious environment.”
The Bridge has always featured two different experiences. The left-hand side now features Cathay Pacific’s iconic Noodle Bar serving signature dishes and all-time favourites such as wonton and dan dan noodles, and dim sum. The rotating menus are further enriched by new Chinese favourites, from main dishes such as biangbiang mian to braised beef shin with cauliflower, to punchy vibrant salads and delectable desserts.
In addition, this side of The Bridge features The Nook, a brand-new concept for Cathay Pacific’s lounges that complements and extends the culinary offerings of the Noodle Bar, while also expanding the dining seating into this cosy corner. Customers will discover a curation of Chinese regional small plates and lighter options packed with punchy flavour and texture, such as made-to-order savoury filled bao, crispy scallion pancakes and steaming rice rolls. A custom dim sum cart, as much a piece of furniture as it is functional, and reminiscent of Hong Kong restaurants, brings something new yet familiar.
The right-hand side boasts a dedicated space for First class customers and Cathay Diamond members to unwind in comfort and privacy while being looked after by the engaging Cathay team.
Also on this side of the lounge and part of the international offering is the Food Hall, which features front-of-house ovens for an elevated oven-to-plate concept. Wholesome, comforting and familiar, the menu boasts individual casseroles such as beef bourguignon and Provencal vegetable bakes, alongside freshly baked pastries, vibrant salads and moreish desserts.
The Bar, with its impressive panoramic views of the runway, is the perfect place for customers to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, barista coffees or a glass of Champagne while chatting with the engaging Cathay bartenders. With a dedicated relaxation area outfitted with the airline’s bespoke Solo Chairs, customers are treated to an elevated lounge experience unlike any other.
The Bridge Picture
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