Cathay unveils technology subsidiary

Cathay has doubled down on its digital efforts by launching Cathay Technologies, a new subsidiary created with the goal of bringing Cathay’s innovative digital solutions to the wider aviation industry. 

With its nearly 80 years of history, Cathay leverages its deep aviation industry expertise to develop innovative in-house digital solutions that enhance user and customer experience, safety and operational excellence, and sustainability.  

As part of the Cathay Group, Cathay Technologies will oversee the commercialisation of digital products, making them available to the aviation market and helping to drive innovation within the sector.  

Cathay Technologies’ flagship product is the Electronic Flight Folder (EFF), which has been designed and developed in-house by its own aviation professionals who understand the unique challenges of the industry. First developed in 2019, the EFF has revolutionised how pilots access and manage flight information, resulting in faster turnaround times and significant cost savings through workflow optimisation. 

The EFF is now trusted by pilots across the Cathay Group’s airlines, including Cathay Pacific, Cathay Cargo, HK Express and Air Hong Kong. The establishment of Cathay Technologies marks the next step in commercialising the product to the wider industry. 

In a significant first move, Cathay Technologies has teamed up with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park (HKSTP) on its co-acceleration programme Fund. Cathay Technologies is among four investing firms and enterprise partners of the co-acceleration programme fund, which was launched at a ceremony at HKSTP on 7 April 2025. 

The strategic partnership with HKSTP underscores Cathay’s continued support for advancing technological innovation to spur the city’s economic growth and development. 

As a strategic partner of the HKSTP co-acceleration fund, Cathay Technologies will explore potential proof of concept opportunities with relevant startups, in addition to providing strategic advice and industry insights. Additionally, through its direct investment in the fund, Cathay Technologies offers financial support that will help startups scale their operations and bring their products to market. 

Cathay director of digital and IT Lawrence Fong said: “Cathay’s vision is to transform into a digital leader famous for our strong digital culture and capabilities, whilst keeping our people and customers at the heart of how we use technology. We are constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance our services and products, staying ahead of the curve and setting new industry standards. 

“We see Cathay Technologies as an extension of Cathay’s commitment to excellence, supported by our rich history and extensive understanding of the aviation industry, allowing us to provide unparalleled service and expertise to our solutions. With Cathay Technologies, we are reaching new levels in our efforts to support the development of innovation in the aviation industry and Hong Kong’s digital sector," Fong added.

Cathay general manager digital ventures and Cathay Technologies CEO Navin Chellaram said: “Cathay has a long-standing commitment to supporting Hong Kong’s technology ecosystem and fostering innovation and economic growth in the wider Greater Bay Area, including through our signature Cathay Hackathon and our successful graduate trainee programme. 

“To us, both tech talents and startups play a crucial role in the innovation and technology space. Cathay Technologies is pleased to collaborate with HKSTP on this landmark fund, which will empower budding startups in Hong Kong and the rest of the Greater Bay Area, further strengthening the economic growth of the region,” Chellaram added.

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to Cathay for more information.

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