Cathay Pacific vs Cathay Dragon - safety, reliability, experience, etc?
I'm in the process of booking my first trip ever to Asia, and also my first really long flight, which will include a leg between Hong Kong and Taipei.
Most flights on my original day of choice require a transfer to (or codeshare/operation share with) Cathay Dragon, which I gather is originally Dragonair.
- Is this actually a good airline, with the same quality, safety, reliability and experience as Cathay Pacific, or is the "Cathay" just a branding ploy?
- How does their service compare?
- How do their pilots, aircraft and maintenance compare? Which one has the oldest planes?
Summary: what are the pros and cons of taking the "Dragon" VS choosing a different day so I can guarantee myself a "Pacific"?
Note: I have mild-moderate fear of flying, which is why I'm a bit fussy whenever I have to buy a plane ticket... please forgive me for that.