Flying Again After Six Years — My First Experience with Cathay Pacific

First, I want to apologize for my recent absence. I’ve been away on a personal trip back to my country, and in doing so, I basically disconnected from the modern world — literally unplugged from all the technology, notifications, and constant connectivity. It was refreshing and strange at the same time, a reminder that stepping away can offer clarity and perspective.

It has been six long years since I last boarded a plane. Traveling had become something I only dreamed about between the demands of daily life, and in the meantime, airports and airplanes felt almost like distant, familiar friends I hadn’t seen in ages. So when the time finally came to fly from Japan to Belgium, I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension — especially since this would be my first experience with Cathay Pacific.

Before booking, I did my homework. I read reviews online, and many people had complaints — mostly about delays and occasional service issues. I made a mental note of this, but as a parent traveling with three children, I had other priorities. I knew that any airline that could offer a smooth experience for families would be far more valuable to me than a flawless rating on a forum.

On the day of departure, the process of checking in felt surprisingly easy. Cathay Pacific’s online check-in was straightforward, and the airport staff helped us navigate the lines efficiently. One of the biggest reliefs was priority boarding for families with children. Traveling with three kids, aged 2 to 8, was exhausting — not gonna lie — and there were ups and downs along the way, but nothing too dramatic. Anyone who has managed children through long airport lines knows how critical these small considerations can be. Thanks to the support and organization, even the little hiccups felt manageable.

The flight itself was pleasantly smooth. The cabin crew were professional yet approachable, always ready to assist without being intrusive. It’s a delicate balance, and they struck it well. The meals were also a highlight — flavorful, satisfying, and thoughtfully presented. While I wouldn’t call it restaurant-level cuisine, it was surprisingly good for airplane food and definitely above what I expected for a long-haul flight.

One thing I noticed immediately was the absence of the traditional amenity kits. You know, the little pouches with socks, toothbrushes, and other in-flight essentials. I’m not sure whether this is a global airline trend or specific to Cathay Pacific, but it was something I had expected based on past flights. While it wasn’t a major inconvenience, frequent travelers might notice the difference.

Of course, no journey is without minor setbacks. Our flight experienced some delays before takeoff. However, every delay was explained clearly and appeared entirely justified. From my perspective, especially traveling with children, what mattered most was that none of the delays disrupted our subsequent plans. On the contrary, I appreciated that the airline prioritized safety and proper procedures over rigid punctuality — a reminder that delays, though inconvenient, can often be necessary.

Reflecting on the experience as a whole, I realized that much of what makes air travel comfortable is less about luxury and more about small, thoughtful touches: clear communication, patient staff, and attention to passengers’ needs — especially when those passengers are families. Flying with children has taught me to notice these details more than I might have as a solo traveler, and Cathay Pacific did not disappoint in that regard.

The six-year gap since my last flight added another layer to the experience. Airports, security, boarding procedures — all of it felt familiar yet slightly unfamiliar at the same time, like visiting an old friend who has changed subtly over the years. Watching my children experience the thrill of takeoff and the excitement of looking out the window over clouds and oceans reminded me of the simple joys of travel that can often get lost in the logistics.

While my online research highlighted complaints, my personal experience was overwhelmingly positive. I can see how minor delays and service inconsistencies could frustrate some travelers, especially those traveling for business or on tight schedules. But for us, as a family navigating the complexities of traveling with young children, the experience was smooth, reassuring, and even enjoyable in its own quiet way.

Looking back, what stands out most is not the food or the absence of amenity kits, nor even the minor delays. What I remember is the sense of calm and reliability — an airline that helped us navigate long-haul travel with children in a way that felt safe and considered. After six years away from airplanes and airports, I didn’t just fly from Japan to Belgium; I returned to a world I had missed, and I did so with ease.

In the end, flying with Cathay Pacific was more than just a journey from one country to another. It was a reminder that good travel is about preparation, patience, and small acts of care. For families, those small details make a world of difference. For me, it was a flight that restored confidence in the joys of traveling, reminded me of the little wonders of flight, and left me looking forward to the next adventure.

Stay tuned to hear more about it, ‘cuz I can’t wait to share it with you!