Racing to Fiji: American Airlines vs. Cathay Pacific vs. Fiji Airways

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In The Points Guy’s longest race yet, Nicky Kelvin and Liam Spencer flew from London to Fiji in opposite directions around the world.

Nicky headed eastbound via Cathay Pacific, while Liam went westbound on American Airlines, with both finishing their journeys on Fiji Airways in business class, where they found two very different experiences.

The routes

From Piccadilly Circus in London, Nicky jumped on the London Tube and its fairly new Elizabeth Line to Heathrow Airport (LHR) for a quick stop in his favourite lounge at Britain’s busiest airport, the Cathay Pacific First Class Lounge. Meanwhile, Liam took the premium, nonstop Heathrow Express train service. He fueled up in the American Airlines Admirals Club.

Nicky’s first leg was in Cathay Pacific’s new A350 Aria Suite, one of the most private and polished business-class experiences in the sky. Liam flew the American 777-300ER, with a lie-flat seat, familiar service and the all-important ice cream sundae.

Connections and Fiji Airways

Nicky connected at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), with time for a shower at The Pier lounge, before flying Fiji Airways’ A330, featuring friendly service and a simpler hard product.

Liam cleared Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) quickly thanks to Global Entry. He managed to squeeze in both the Flagship Lounge and the Oneworld Lounge, then boarded Fiji Airways’ A350, complete with spacious seats and its new Pacific Rim dining experience.

The result

After more than 24 hours of travel, both touched down in Fiji, but one route beat the other by roughly 30 minutes.

Find out who won right now on The Points Guy Departures YouTube channel.

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.