Cathay Pacific will start trans-Polar Hong Kong-New York services on 1 September, joining United and Continental Airlines, the latter of which pioneered the route and serves its hub at Newark. As Continental and United have experienced sluggish economy - but vigorous premium - class sales, Cathay will operate a specially modified Airbus A340-300 with 60 business class seats, instead of the usual 38. The resultant smaller economy section will also enable the carrier to transport more cargo on the route. Cathay previously served JFK only via Vancouver, a route it intends to maintain.
Source: Airline Business
