Cathay Pacific graduates new batch of cadet pilots

Cathay Pacific announced the graduation of its latest batch of cadet pilots who completed the Cadet Pilot Training Programme. It also marks the very first time that graduates’ ground theory training was conducted in-house by Cathay Academy, demonstrating Cathay’s expertise in creating and delivering tailored and comprehensive training. In addition to the theoretical ground training, these cadet pilots also underwent flight training at AeroGuard Flight Training Center in Arizona and Multi Crew Cooperation (MCC) training in flight simulators with Cathay Academy before graduating from the programme. These 34 graduates have since joined Cathay Pacific as Second Officers and commenced flying duty. Currently, there are more than 500 cadet pilots in training as part of the Cadet Pilot Training Programme. Cadet graduates Tony Yung and Kellie Chiu and Cathay Pacific Training Manager (Pilot Development) Captain Joe Fung pictured at a flight simulator. (PHOTO: Cathay Pacific) Cathay Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer Alex McGowan welcomed Civil Aviation Department Acting Director-General of Civil Aviation Clara Wong as the guest of honour at the graduation ceremony, which was held on 16 May at the airline’s Cathay City headquarters. Acting Director-General of Civil Aviation Clara Wong said: “For over 35 years, Cathay Pacific’s cadet pilot training programme has served as a cornerstone for nurturing local aviation talent. From engaging more flying schools around the world, to having theory courses taught by local institutions, and now Cathay Academy, together we are making history. This evolution aims to make pilot training more effective, efficient and sustainable.” Cathay’s Alex McGowan said: “Developing aviation talent has always been a priority for Cathay. Our Cadet Pilot Training Programme provides us with world-class aviators, many of whom have gone on to hold senior training positions with us, as well as key flying leadership roles. Today’s graduation carries special significance as it marks our first group of cadet pilots to go through our very own Cathay Academy ground school, including Multi Crew Cooperation training in our simulators. This enables us to ensure the highest quality training, get closer to our future pilots, and enrich their overall experience. It also expands our ability to develop future generations of aviation talent locally. Our sincere appreciation goes out to the Transport and Logistics Bureau and the Civil Aviation Department for their unwavering support.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Kay Rolland at [email protected]