For US-based job applicants - If you require assistance or accommodation in completing any aspect of the application process, please contact the Cathay Pacific Americas Talent Acquisition team at: jobs@cathaypacific.com
Explore below to understand our job requirements, how we hire and what it takes to succeed.
Our interview process is designed to test both your technical knowledge and skills, and whether you are a good fit for our airline’s culture. As such, be prepared to talk about your motivations for becoming a pilot and why Cathay Pacific is the airline for you.
All of our pilots are expected to be with us through their command course, and so we look for the skills required of our Captains from day one. Attributes we look for include professionalism, maturity, leadership skills, poise under pressure, compassion for our customers and a focus on safety.
We are committing to you as much as you are committing to us, so getting the match right is essential.
Pilots
Interview process
Our interview process is designed to test both your technical knowledge and skills, and whether you are a good fit for our airline’s culture. As such, be prepared to talk about your motivations for becoming a pilot and why Cathay Pacific is the airline for you.
All of our pilots are expected to be with us through their command course, and so we look for the skills required of our Captains from day one. Attributes we look for include professionalism, maturity, leadership skills, poise under pressure, compassion for our customers and a focus on safety.
We are committing to you as much as you are committing to us, so getting the match right is essential.
FAQ - Cathay Pacific Cadet
I wear spectacles, is that okay?
Good vision is necessary to fulfil the duties of a Pilot. Corrective lenses such as spectacles or contact lenses are okay provided they correct your vision to the acceptable vision standards for a Pilot’s licence.
Refractive eye surgery such as LASIK is not recommended by Cathay Pacific Airways as a means to correcting vision for purposes of holding a Pilot’s licence. This is because (as with all medical procedures) there are potential postoperative complications, which may affect your vision standard and therefore deem you medically unfit.
Does Cathay Pacific have female pilots?
Yes, we do. There is no difference between males and females in terms of selection criteria, selection process or training.
How long does it take for the whole recruiting process?
About 4 to 6 months.
Do I need to have studied a science at university to be qualified for the Cadet Pilot Programme?
No, that’s not a requirement. The educational standard is either to have completed Secondary School with good passes in mathematics and science, or a degree in any discipline (science subjects are preferred).
Will I need to have any flying experience before applying for the Cadet Pilot Programme?
No, that’s not a requirement. Many successful Cadet applicants do not have flying experience.
Do you think I should get a PPL / join some aviation course outside?
It is really a personal choice. You do not need actual flight experience, however, an aptitude and a passion for aviation are essential.
Customer service in the air and on the ground
Flight Attendant
Our flight attendants share the same positive attributes. Every person on our team enjoys meeting people from diverse backgrounds and providing them with a world-class customer service. We welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds.
Most of our flight attendants are based in Hong Kong. We also recruit flight attendants who are based in Bangkok, London, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Singapore, Toronto, and Vancouver from time to time.
Recruitment Process
- Digital Interview
- Language Assessments
- Final Interview
- Medical Examination including Arm Reach Exercise (208cm arm reach)
FAQs
Can I re-apply if I failed my previous application?
You are welcome to re-apply after 6 months (from the date of your last interview). You are encouraged to build up relevant work experiences to prepare.
I’m not a confident swimmer. Will this affect my application?
This won’t affect your application, but part of the emergency and safety training will require you to conduct wet drills. Rest assured, a life jacket will be provided.
Is this a permanent or contract position?
Successful recruits will be offered a 3-year contract. Upon satisfactory completion of your 3-year contract, you may be offered a continual contract subject to various factors including but not limited to your performance, attendance, operation and resource needs of the company.
Can I resign within the 3-year contract?
Yes, you may resign with advanced notice during the 3-year contract as it is not a bound contract.
Can I transfer between bases?
Base transfer will be subject to available openings and eligibility. As requirements differ between countries, you will need to meet the requirements of the base you wish to transfer to.
I'm a permanent Hong Kong citizen but I can't speak Cantonese. Can I still apply?
To qualify for our Hong Kong-based positions, you must be proficient in English and one of the following Asian languages: Cantonese, Mandarin, Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Tagalog or Thai. You must be able to read and write the required language.
How are promotions for Cabin Crew determined at Cathay Pacific?
Requirements on promotion will be based on flying experience and overall performance profile. Cathay Pacific recognises those who have dedicated years of service and those who have demonstrated outstanding performance with the opportunity for career advancement.
I am currently a flight attendant with another airline, does Cathay Pacific recognise my previous experience?
Absolutely, we appreciate your experience as a flight attendant. As a candidate with one year or more of flying experience, you would be able to complete your assessments within the same day, as well as having a faster selection process.
Customer Service and Baggage Service Officers
Our Customer Services Officer and Baggage Services Officer at the Hong Kong International Airport and our outports have excellent people skills, are inherently helpful, kind and empathetic.
They are able to anticipate and understand customers’ needs, collaborate efficiently and effectively with each other to ensure they are able to overcome all kinds of challenges and to do it all with patience and professionalism.
Recruitment process
- Digital or phone interview
- Aptitude test (Accuracy test)
- Group Activity
- Final Interview
Management and Graduate Trainee Programmes
Swire Management Trainee Programme
The Swire Management Programme provide our Trainees limitless exposure to various companies and industries within the Swire Pacific Ltd and John Swire and Sons Ltd. The on-job training and the opportunities will accelerate their professional development to leadership positions over a long-term, challenging and diverse career.
Visit the Swire management trainee programme website to find out more.