Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific has released a documentary short that celebrates the brand’s 80th anniversary, produced by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions and electriclime°.
Founded in Hong Kong in 1946 with a single aircraft, Cathay Pacific has grown into one of the world’s most recognized international airlines. The carrier will mark its anniversary this September.
The six-minute film, directed by Miles Rowland, draws on contributions from retired and current cabin crew, pilots, customers, and back-office staff. Together, they trace the airline’s origins and its role in Hong Kong’s development as an international trade and tourism hub.
The film follows the airline’s journey from its early years through its growth, with contributors reflecting on what the carrier has meant to those who built, served, flew, and chose it across generations.
According to the film’s page on the BBC website, “As Cathay Pacific marks its 80th anniversary in 2026, the milestone is being celebrated not only in the growth of routes and aircraft, but in the generations of people who have built their lives around the airline.”
BBC StoryWorks is the commercial creative studio of BBC Studios.
Credits
Production Company: electriclime°
Director: Miles Rowland
Co-Founders: Michael Ahmadzadeh, Pabz Alexander
Executive Producer: Jason Heller
AC/Gaffer: Nelson Fung
Sound Mixer: Dominic Yip
Production Assistant: Nathan Dang
Researcher: Stanley Soh
Editor & Colour: Nic Venettacci
Mix: Michael Farrell
