A Cathay Pacific flight from Toronto to Hong Kong faced a 54-hour delay due to a medical emergency. The Airbus A350-1000, flying over Greenland, diverted to Reykjavik, Iceland, after a passenger needed urgent medical help. The diversion caused significant delays for all passengers onboard.

Flight CX829, traveling from Toronto Pearson to Hong Kong International, landed at Keflavik International Airport on January 2, 2025. The crew made the decision after the passenger’s condition worsened. They offloaded the passenger and refueled the aircraft. They then returned to Toronto, as crew hours would not allow the flight to continue to Hong Kong.

After staying overnight in Toronto, the flight departed the next day with a new crew. The typical 15-hour journey was significantly delayed due to the emergency. The airline arranged accommodation, meals, and transportation for the affected passengers. Cathay Pacific expressed regret for the inconvenience, prioritizing passenger safety.

Cathay Pacific operates Airbus A350-1000 aircraft known for long-haul flights. These planes serve destinations in Europe, North America, and Asia. The airline plans to expand with a new route between Hong Kong and Dallas Fort Worth in April 2025. This expansion strengthens Cathay’s presence in the U.S. and broadens its international network.

Cathay Pacific remains committed to restoring its global network despite challenges from political unrest and the pandemic. The airline’s strategic decisions and new routes support its growth and resilience.

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