It would seem to me that even with an option of the CO non-stop, many people are choosing to fly on the one-stop from JFK to HKG. I am not sure if is either due to the cost of the ticket, the connections are better to other asia destinations, frequent flyer miles or better service. I do know that many people (whom I have met) choose to go out of their way to fly up to YVR to fly to Asia on Cathay when there are more direct flights from SEA.