'Asia's world city' jumbo jet a big hit in UK

Cathay Pacific's unique 'Asia's world city' jumbo jet performed a dramatic display at the Farnborough International Air Show in the UK, the world's biggest aviation event.

The aircraft, a Boeing 747-400, performed slow and high-speed flypasts at an altitude of just 600 feet, pulling away steeply in a sharp banking turn and giving a rare close-up display of the Brand Hong Kong logo before thousands of aviation enthusiasts.

"A dramatic display by our 'Asia's world city' for the first time put Hong Kong at centre stage of this important world event," said Cathay Pacific's Director and Chief Operating Officer, Mr Philip Chen.

The 'Asia's world city' aircraft was specially chosen to promote Hong Kong at the event. Its livery, created to mark the fifth year of the establishment of the Hong Kong SAR, features Hong Kong's fiery dragon logo, symbolising the dynamic spirit of the city.

Green and blue waves running down the aircraft's back represent the land and oceans over which it flies.

Event organisers had invited Cathay Pacific to help celebrate the centenary of aircraft engine maker Rolls-Royce. The airline was among the first to buy the Boeing 747-400 and tested the first prototype aircraft fitted with the Rolls-Royce RB211-524 engine, now used widely by airlines around the world.

Ends/Tuesday, July 27, 2004