The last few weeks CX 883 from LAX TO HKG has been boarding from a remote gate. This is the third time I experience this in my last 3 flights over 4 months. The staff told me it has been this way for weeks. They basically bus passengers and crews from gate 136 or nearby. From the moment you get to the check in counter they have a memo taped on each counter that says they are apologizing that because of limited buses they will not be providing a separate bus for premium classes.

They ask you to be at the gate by 9:15. (10:20 scheduled departure) there you line up by classes. The captain was there for the crew bus, but they had to wait until all the crew arrived, delaying the passenger boarding. Finally the 1st crowded bus left. About 7-10 minute ride. Then a second line at the remote terminal with passengers lined up on the ramp, as more buses arrived the line grew and grew. It was not until 20 minutes later that we start to board. With a few extra minutes wait at the bridge. More complications with children and wheelchairs

While walking to the gate I noticed many unused gates. I wonder why CX does not get one. Probably costs them more money one way or the other. It appears the aircraft arrives as CX884 a few hours earlier and is parked remotely, perhaps it is the cost to tow it back to a gate.

Onboard now in F. Crew is charming as always. But the boarding is no befitting this airline. I fly out of Bradley on other airlines, and BA, LATAM, and others somehow get a gate.