Who in CX really cares?
This isn't a market changer. From a technical perspective, it's interesting and perhaps speaks well of the B787-9. However, how many potential QF passengers take this flight instead of CX? Very few. The ME3 and mainland Chinese market entrants are far greater threats.
The CX product is not much, if any, better than its competitors, and the costs are higher, not being helped by upside down fuel hedges. The only thing CX has going for it is a sterling (yet deteriorating) reputation, a modern fleet, and a robust cargo network to supplement passenger revenue. CX better get its act together...