Cathay’s Osaka–HK flight axed minutes before departure, passengers decry late notice and chaotic scenes

18th January 2026 – (Osaka) Cathay Pacific’s CX507 from Osaka to Hong Kong was cancelled shortly before take-off at 6.05pm Japan time today, with passengers told around half an hour after the scheduled departure that a mechanical fault required aircraft maintenance.

Travellers described confusion at Kansai International Airport, saying tempers flared with ground staff as people scrambled for assistance. Meal vouchers were handed out, but without queuing arrangements, leading to a free‑for‑all. Nearly an hour after the cancellation announcement, some passengers finally received emails advising rebooking for the following morning; one traveller said their new departure was set for 9.25am, while others reported their parties were split across different flights and complained of late alternatives.

Several criticised the airline for confirming the cancellation too late to secure other tickets promptly.