Cathay Pacific | Cadet

Cathay Pacific Cadet Pilot Programme: Launch Your Aviation Career

Cathay Pacific invites aspiring aviators to join its prestigious Cadet Pilot Programme, cultivating the next generation of airline captains. This program offers a unique opportunity for individuals with a profound passion for flying and a strong ambition to build a rewarding career in aviation.

Upon successful entry into the Cathay Pacific Cadet Pilot Programme, participants will benefit from sponsored training designed to equip them with a Commercial Pilot License. Graduates will be prepared to operate a diverse range of flights, including regional, long-haul, and ultra-long-haul routes. The comprehensive training curriculum includes theoretical ground instruction at leading institutions in Hong Kong and internationally, complemented by practical flying training conducted by world-renowned organizations in the United States or Australia. Applications for this approximately 80-week program are accepted year-round, presenting an excellent chance to commence a professional flying career.

Key Responsibilities and Training

Ground School Training: Building Foundational Expertise

The program ensures cadets are thoroughly prepared for flight through:

• Comprehensive ground school theory training to develop essential skills, knowledge, and confidence.
• Guidance from world-class instructors who impart critical knowledge on flight theory, aircraft systems, and regulatory requirements necessary for success as an airline pilot.

Flight Training: Mastering Piloting Skills

Cadets will progress to practical flight training, which includes:

• Hands-on experience with both single and twin-engined light aircraft.
• Extensive simulator training in jet aircraft, focusing on Airline Operating Procedures, Large Jet Handling, and Multi-Crew Flying.

Eligibility Requirements

Candidates are encouraged to apply if they meet the following criteria:

• Possession of the legal right to live and work in Hong Kong or the Chinese Mainland. Candidates eligible for IANG or TTPS are also welcome to apply.
• Successful completion of secondary school with strong passes in English language, Mathematics, or Science. A university or aviation degree is considered an advantage.
• Hold a valid certificate of proficiency in English from one of the following:
  • IELTS (Academic or General): A score of 6.0 or above, with individual band scores of at least 6.0 in Listening and Speaking.
  • TOEIC: A score of 800 or above, with individual band scores of at least 400 in Listening and 160 in Speaking.
  • TOEFL iBT: A score of 80 or above, with individual band scores of at least 21 in Listening and 21 in Speaking.
• Physical fitness and qualification for a Civil Aviation Department (HKCAD) Class 1 Medical Certificate.
• Ability to meet specified flight deck reach requirements. Candidates may be required to undergo a static reach test and flight simulator reach assessment.
• Achievement of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) English Language Proficiency Level 4 or above.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check, including criminal records.
• Minimum age of 18 years.

*Refer to HKCAD policy for comprehensive fitness-to-fly requirements. As this is a Safety Sensitive Role, successful candidates must also pass a pre-employment drug test, conducted in accordance with the HKCAD Guidance for screening of Psychoactive Substances - Annex B, CAD373.

Upon successful completion of the Cathay Pacific Cadet Pilot Programme, individuals will receive further information regarding their role as a Second Officer at Cathay Pacific in Hong Kong.