First Officer (Direct Entry)

Cathay Pacific invites applications for the challenging and rewarding role of First Officer (Direct Entry), a permanent position within the Flight Operations Department. Based in the vibrant global hub of Hong Kong SAR, China, this opportunity offers an unparalleled pathway to advance an aviation career with a leading world-class airline.

Role Overview and Career Progression

Flying for Cathay Pacific involves operating a state-of-the-art fleet of Airbus (A321neo, A330, A350) and Boeing (B777, B747) aircraft across an extensive global network, encompassing regional, long-haul, and ultra-long-haul routes. The airline places paramount importance on safety and comprehensive pilot training, supported by its world-class Flight Training Centre. Pilots benefit from a well-established pathway to Command and diverse opportunities for professional development beyond line flying, including engagement in flight data analysis, safety groups, training roles, and management teams. Successful candidates will be considered for assignment to any fleet type operated by Cathay Pacific.

Comprehensive Benefits Package

A career with Cathay Pacific is complemented by a comprehensive benefits package designed to support pilots and their families. This includes:

Generous staff travel privileges across the airline's network for the pilot and their dependants.
Robust insurance coverage.
A substantial monthly allowance.
Children’s Education Allowance.
A generous provident fund.
The potential for enhanced earnings through a productivity-driven contract.

Candidates will also have the unique opportunity to live and work in Hong Kong, Asia’s World City, a dynamic metropolis celebrated for its rich history and distinctive culture, which Cathay Pacific proudly supports.

Essential Requirements

Prospective First Officers must demonstrate a strong commitment to aviation excellence and meet the following stringent requirements:

Possession of an ICAO Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) or a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) with a Multi Engine Instrument Rating (MEIR) and corresponding same-state ATPL examination credits. These must have been obtained without exemption or conversion.
A valid Class 1 Medical Certificate.
ICAO English Language Proficiency Level 4 or above.
A minimum total flying time of 1,500 hours (with 3,000 hours preferred), which must include:
- Minimum 500 hours as Pilot-in-Command (P1), of which a maximum of 250 hours may be P1 Under Supervision (P1 U/S).
Additionally, candidates must meet one of the following criteria regarding aircraft type experience:
- A) 500 hours on civil aircraft certified for multi-crew operations with a Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) exceeding 45,000 kg.
- B) 1,500 hours on civil aircraft certified for multi-crew operations with an MTOW exceeding 10,000 kg or aircraft certified and configured for more than 19 passengers, including:
  - 500 hours (inclusive of at least 250 P1 and/or P1 U/S hours) accumulated within the preceding 5 years; OR
  - 100 sectors flown within the preceding 5 years.

Selection Process

The rigorous selection process for this safety-sensitive role includes a pre-employment medical check (adhering to HKCAD Class 1 medical standards), a comprehensive background check (including criminal records verification), and a pre-employment drug test. Drug testing will be conducted in accordance with HKCAD Guidance for screening of Psychoactive Substances - Annex B, CAD373 (CAD373).

Application Information

Cathay Pacific is an Equal Opportunities Employer. All personal data provided by job applicants will be handled strictly in accordance with the airline's personal data policy and utilized solely for recruitment purposes. Unsuccessful candidates will be notified within eight weeks of their application, and all related information will be retained in the airline's files for up to 24 months. A copy of the Personal Information Collection Statement is available upon request by contacting the Data Protection Officer.