Cathay Pacific expects delay in starting non-stop flights to New York

HONG KONG (AFX-ASIA) - Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd said it expects several months' delay before it start its planned non-stop service to New York, Hong Kong iMail reported, quoting deputy chairman and chief executive David Turnbull.	    Turnbull said the planned summer launch has been delayed due to problems securing official approval for the route.	    "We still have regulatory problems," he said. This includes getting permission from Moscow to fly over Russian territory.	    Cathay Pacific is keen to start non-stop flights between Hong Kong and New York as Continental Airlines started direct services on March 3 and United Airlines will launch a direct service next week.	    On fuel prices, Turnbull said the cost of fuel has risen by 15-20 pct so far this year compared with the same period last year.	    He said although fuel prices have moderated in the past few weeks, it is still the third highest expense behind staffing and route costs.	    Passenger loads have fallen due to the entry of new aircraft in the last few months.	    "The economic difficulties will affect travel and that will affect us, that's for sure. A U.S. economic slowdown can only be bad. We have to rely on new things."	    He said the airline plans to develop its business in the middle-east, especially to Bahrain, Dubai and Saudi Arabia.	    "We are looking to Riyadh. We have the (flying) rights to Riyadh and are looking to start services later this year."	    In addition, Cathay Pacific is also planning to expand its services to India, with the possible launch of services to Bangalore. 

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