Dreams take flight for Cathay cadet pilots

For many aspiring aviators, the dream of becoming a pilot begins in childhood while gazing out of airplane windows, mesmerized by the vast skies. Two of Cathay Pacific’s newest cadet pilots, Tony Yung and Kellie Chiu, have turned that dream into reality as they graduate from the airline’s Cadet Pilot Programme.

A lifelong passion for aviation

Tony Yung, a former Cathay Pacific cabin crew member and operations coordinator, traces his passion for flying back to his early teens. He recalled his first glider flight at age 13 with the Air Cadets in Canada, an experience that made him fall in love with aviation. Though he obtained his pilot’s license years ago, personal circumstances delayed his flying career until he was inspired by his manager, also a pilot, to join the cadet program.

Kellie Chiu, a nutrition science graduate, shared that she had always been fascinated by how aircraft could soar through the skies. She described the profession as a perfect blend of challenge, critical thinking, and teamwork—everything she had ever wanted in a career.

Choosing Cathay Pacific

Both cadets selected Cathay Pacific for its renowned aviation excellence. Yung emphasized the airline’s strong commitment to safety and training, while Chiu, who grew up flying with Cathay, said she saw it as an opportunity to represent her Hong Kong roots through the city’s flagship carrier.

Training experiences

During their training at AeroGuard in Phoenix, Arizona, the cadets created lasting memories. Yung described flying over the Grand Canyon as a breathtaking highlight, while Chiu said she could hardly contain her excitement during her first flight from Deer Valley Airport, realizing her childhood dream was coming true.

The program’s rigorous simulator sessions and mentorship from Cathay Pacific pilots played a crucial role in their development. Yung noted that the instructors were highly supportive, and the airline’s management maintained close contact to ensure training standards were met.

Future aspirations

Looking ahead, Yung aims to progress to captain, while Chiu hopes to mentor future aviators and inspire the next generation to join the industry.

Cathay’s commitment to local talent

As Hong Kong’s home carrier, Cathay Pacific continues to invest in local talent through its Cadet Pilot Programme, which provides fully sponsored training for aspiring pilots. The program includes ground training at leading institutions, flight training in the U.S. or Australia, and Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) at Cathay’s Flight Training Centre in Hong Kong.

Since its launch in 1988, the program has expanded significantly, with over 1,000 cadets commencing training since 2022. Many have already graduated as second officers, with applications remaining open year-round. Through this initiative, Cathay Pacific reinforces its dedication to Hong Kong’s aviation future while upholding its reputation for excellence in pilot training.