Cathay Pacific is one of the worlds leading award winning airlines flying to 116 destinations globally from its Hong Kong Base. The airline has gained a reputation for first class service and is well respected by pilots.

Cathay operates an ultra-modern fleet of over 123 aircraft including the A330, A340, 777 and 747. The airline only operates wide-body aircraft and has one of the most exciting global route networks a pilot could hope for. Destinations span five continents which includes the worlds most glittering cities.

Cathay Pacific recruits all first and second officers with the intention of them progressing to be captains. Pilots are recruited not just from Hong Kong, but internationally from countries such as the USA, Canada, France, Germany and Australia.

Cathay Pacific regularly recruits new pilots into its business. New pilots can expect to receive first class training over a 6 month period. The training programme includes ground school, simulator training, base training and line training followed by a line check.

First Officers recruited into the airline are initially assigned a base port located outside of Hong Kong. Pilots will later have the opportunity to be based in Hong Kong itself. The pay scale of pilots will vary depending on the base port.

Second Officers are also recruited to act as relief pilots on long-haul flights on either the A340 or 747. Unlike F/Os new Second Officers are based in Hong Kong from the beginning and are not assigned an alternative base port.

Applying for a Second Officer position is a great way to step into this world renown airline. Providing you stick your head down then a promotion to First Officer can be expected. Cathay Pacific is a very good airline for progressing pilots through the command structure.

Prospective F/Os and S/Os require a minimum of 1000 hours of flying experience. Cathay do recruit pilots direct from the military. Candidates with multi-engine and jet experience will hold an advantage.

Cathay Pacific offers pilots an excellent reward package with competitive rates of pay. Other benefits include a retirement scheme, loss of license insurance, life insurance, concessionary travel, medical cover and heavily subsidised school fees.

To conclude, Cathay Pacific is known as one of the best and most prestigiuos airlines in the world to fly for. They have a reputation for world class training facilities and a high morale among pilots. Opportunities for career progression are also very good with a top end benefits package.