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Case Analysis
Strategic Marketing in Asia
~ CATHAY PACIFIC ~
Introduction
Since its establishment in 1946, Cathay Pacific has been a profitable airline company, which experienced periodical growth. In 1998 however, the airline experienced a loss of US $70 million, a stark contrast from earning $218 million in profits in the previous year. For Cathay Pacific, this was the first loss experienced by the air carrier since 1963�. Cathay Pacific's economic hardship was mainly the result of a financial crisis, which affected the Asia-Pacific region at that time. As a result of this crisis, air travel heavily declined, resulting in low passenger loads and yields. For Cathay Pacific, this translated into a decline of 12.9% in revenue. Additionally, Cathay Pacific also faced a series of problems with its labor department due to disagreements over negotiations and the handling of in-flight operations�. This conflict resulted in strikes and delays for the airline.
English: "Nikki" outside the Cathay City, Hong Kon...
English: Cathay City, headquarters of Cathay Pacif...
Cathay Pacific First ClassCathay Pacific's problems were exacerbated by the media, which closely scrutinized the airline's actions. As a result, Cathay Pacific also had a crisis in Public Relations. This report discusses the key issues that have surrounded Cathay Pacific and provides an analysis with some recommendations to tackle the situation at hand.
Analysis
Despite its well-known reputation in the Asia-Pacific region, Cathay Pacific faced many challenges that would have a significant impact on its business. By examining the changes that have taken place in the company and the airline industry over the years, the following key issues can be identified. Cathay Pacific needs to address these key issues in order to be successful in the future.
Update - What has happened since 1999
In a bid to escape its 18-month financial slump, Cathay Pacific strategically used Hong Kong as the main hub for air transport in Asia. Additionally, the company's...