Cathay Pacific A350-900, business class LONDON-HONG KONG

BACKGROUND Cathay Pacific serves this route with the Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A350. Both aircraft feature the Safran Cirrus seat in business class.

It's comfortable, with good storage, privacy and tech features, but over the years it has come to lag behind competitors on the innovation front. That's set to change when Cathay debuts the Aria Suite on its Boeing 777 fleet later this year.

CHECK-IN Flight CX256 departs LHR T3 at 2010. I checked in easily via the app, but for manual check-in and bag drop, head to Area C. Fast-track security was quick.

THE LOUNGE Cathay's lounge (Lounge C, located next to Gate 11) bears the same lovely Studioilse design as other flagships, such as Hong Kong. There's lots of hot and cold food options, including a full bar and noodle bar. Boarding announcements are made over the tannoy.

BOARDING I arrived at Gate 3 at around 1940. There was a seating area for business class passengers. Boarding began at 1950 and I was in my seat by 2000. Printed menus had a focus on wellness and "plant-forward" dishes, plus Hong Kong classics and dining partnerships. Welcome drinks included water, juice and Champagne.