Cathay Pacific has marked the graduation of a new class of cadet pilots who have successfully completed the Cadet Pilot Training Programme. This cohort is particularly notable as it is the first to have its ground theory training provided internally by Cathay Academy.

This achievement signifies Cathay’s commitment to tailored training programs that enhance pilot preparation.

During the graduation ceremony held on May 16th, Alex McGowan, the Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer at Cathay, welcomed Clara Wong, Acting Director-General of the Civil Aviation Department, as the guest of honor.

Wong expressed that for over 35 years, Cathay Pacific’s cadet pilot training program has been essential in fostering local aviation talent. She noted the evolution of the program aiming to enhance efficacy and sustainability in pilot training.

McGowan highlighted the importance of aviation talent development for Cathay, stating that the Cadet Pilot Training Programme creates world-class aviators capable of assuming significant roles in the airline. The graduation of this cohort is significant as it marks the first group to complete the Cathay Academy ground school, which includes Multi Crew Cooperation training with simulators, ensuring premier training quality.

Alongside ground training, cadets underwent flight training at AeroGuard Flight Training Center in Arizona and MCC simulator training. The 34 graduates are now Second Officers flying with Cathay Pacific.

The airline currently has over 500 cadet pilots in training and continues to expand its programs, aiming to recruit more than 130 cadets in 2025.