Hong Kong's Cathay Cargo and Cathay Pacific have received top honours at the Air Transport World's 51st Airline Industry Achievement Awards, being named Best Cargo Operator and Eco-Airline of the year respectively, reports the UK's Air Cargo Management.

Chief customer and commercial officer Lavinia Lau said the dual recognition reflected the commitment and hard work of Cathay's global team over the past year.

Cathay Cargo, the largest cargo operator at Hong Kong International Airport, was the first to implement IATA's ONE Record protocol in parts of its daily operations in 2024. It also launched an API enabling forwarders to use its Click & Ship booking platform directly.

The carrier and its HKIA cargo terminal hold full IATA Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators certifications, underscoring its operational standards and industry leadership.

Cathay Pacific's sustainability efforts include a pledge to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and a shift towards greener resources and solutions.

General manager of sustainability Grace Cheung said the award highlighted the importance of collaboration across stakeholders to address complex environmental challenges.

The airline's sustainable aviation fuel programme, launched in 2022, has attracted new members and committed to 6,050 tonnes of SAF, reinforcing its role as a regional leader in eco-aviation.

Ms Lau said the awards would inspire Cathay to continue its pursuit of excellence and strengthen its position as a global service brand.