Too few pilots, chaotic rosters. Why Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific is cancelling flights and its vow that worst is over may be too optimistic

When Peggy Li’s uncle died on New Year’s Eve, the Dubai-based hospitality industry worker immediately booked a ticket to fly home to Hong Kong for the funeral.

She decided to fly with Cathay Pacific Airways, which she used regularly over the past three decades, as the schedule suited her needs and she preferred the extra legroom available in premium economy class.