Cathay Appoints New Senior Vice President for the Americas

Cathay has named Cindy Lam as its new senior vice president for the Americas. Starting Sept. 1, Lam will lead the airline’s strategic vision and business operations in the region. She replaces Chris Vanden Hooven, who is retiring.

She brings nearly 24 years of service at Cathay Pacific where she has served on multiple continents and in diverse operational areas.  She most recently served as General Manager Customer Care based in Hong Kong.

Lam’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as Cathay continues to expand its global footprint and strengthen its presence in the Americas market. This year, Cathay Pacific further enhanced its global connectivity with a new direct route between Dallas-Fort Worth and Hong Kong, which will increase to daily from October 2025. 

“I am honored to take on this leadership role for Cathay in the Americas, where Cathay has a long history spanning a combined over 40 years, currently serving eight passenger destinations…” Lam said. “The region presents tremendous opportunities for growth and innovation…” 

The Cathay Group has committed over HK$100 billion in investments across its fleet, cabin products, lounges, and digital innovation. Recently, Cathay Pacific introduced its retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft on selected flights between Vancouver and Hong Kong, featuring its award-winning Aria Suite Business class, along with new Premium Economy and refreshed Economy cabins. 

Cathay Pacific currently operates over 110 return passenger flights per week between North America and Hong Kong.  In early 2026, the airline will be among the first carriers to operate from the new Terminal 6 JFK International Airport in New York City, opening its first dedicated lounge in the New York market and second in the United States.