Cathay Pacific Revives Iconic “Lettuce Leaf” Livery for 80th Anniversary
Photo Source: Cathay Pacific
For aviation enthusiasts who still remember the heart-stopping approach into Hong Kong’s former Kai Tak International Airport—famously nicknamed the “Kai Tak Heart Attack”—Cathay Pacific’s latest campaign is bound to stir up powerful memories.
As Hong Kong’s flag carrier celebrates its 80th anniversary this year, the airline is taking a nostalgic journey through its history by reviving one of its most iconic designs: the classic green-and-white “lettuce leaf sandwich” livery.
Video Source: Cathay Pacific on X
Cathay Pacific is applying the retro look to two aircraft in its fleet: one Airbus A350 passenger jet (B-LRJ) and one Boeing 747 freighter (B-JLE). The historic design has been subtly updated with an “80” integrated into the signature green stripe along the fuselage, marking the airline’s milestone anniversary. Over the next two to three years, both aircraft will operate on different routes, bringing this beloved livery to airports and aviation fans worldwide.
Cathay Pacific A350 (B-LRJ) with Retro Livery - Copyright © Zaccccccc via Airplane-pictures.net
Cathay Pacific Boeing 747F (B-LJE) with Retro Livery - Copyright © tyyy via Airplane-pictures.net
The celebration goes beyond aircraft paint. Cathay Pacific is also reintroducing vintage uniforms from across the past eight decades, showcasing the evolution of the airline’s style and identity. Selected cabin crew and ground staff will wear these classic uniforms throughout the year as a tribute to the carrier’s rich heritage.
“Lettuce Leaf” on Lockheed L-1011-385-1 TriStar 1 - Source: Jim Newton via Wikimedia Commons
Looking ahead, Cathay Pacific has confirmed that a third special livery will be unveiled later this year as part of the anniversary festivities. Whether it will be the 1997 “Spirit of Hong Kong” livery featuring the city’s skyline or the 2002 “Asia’s World City” design remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: Cathay Pacific’s 80th anniversary is shaping up to be a celebration steeped in history, nostalgia, and global aviation pride.
Track these special-livery aircraft live with the AirNav Radar app:
