Cathay Pacific Has Resumed Hiring Low-Hour Pilots!

Cathay Pacific has been one of the most popular employment providers for low-experience non-type-rated pilots who have recently graduates from Aerocadet flight training and internship programs. After a long post-COVID hiatus, Cathay has finally opened the Second Officer direct entry and accepting applications from the International passport holders!

In a significant announcement, Cathay Pacific Airways, a leading name in the aviation industry, is inviting applications for the position of Second Officer, based in the vibrant city of Hong Kong. This opportunity comes as part of the airline’s commitment to maintaining a world-class fleet and service, operating a mix of Airbus and Boeing aircraft across a global network that spans regional, long-haul, and ultra-long-haul routes.

Pilot Career With Cathay Pacific

A career with Cathay Pacific is not only about professional growth but also comes with a comprehensive benefits package. This includes generous staff travel privileges for employees and their dependants, insurance, a substantial monthly allowance, Children’s Education Allowance, a generous provident fund, and the potential to increase earnings through a productivity-driven contract.

The airline is proud to be an integral part of Hong Kong, known as Asia’s World City, a place celebrated for its rich history and distinctive culture. Cathay Pacific is keen on welcoming new talents to this dynamic city to continue its tradition of excellence in the skies. Cathay Pacific further supports the career development of its pilots by sponsoring type ratings for Second Officer applicants and covering the full cost of converting their license from a North American to a Hong Kong ATPL. This commitment underscores Cathay Pacific’s dedication to nurturing talent and ensuring its pilots are well-prepared for their roles in the cockpit.

Working as a Second Officer

Cathay Pacific stands out from other leading airlines in the Middle East, such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad, by not requiring candidates to have jet experience for the role of Second Officer. This position, also known as “Cruise Pilot,” represents an entry-level opportunity for pilots at Cathay. Unlike their counterparts, Second Officers at Cathay primarily support long-haul flights without engaging in takeoff and landing duties. Their main responsibilities include assisting the First Officer and Captain with pre-flight planning and taking on the role of First Officer during the cruise phase or anytime the aircraft ascends above 25,000 feet. This usually occurs when the First Officer designated for the flight takes a 3-4 hour rest in the aircraft’s bunks.

To ensure their skills remain sharp, Second Officers are required to complete three takeoffs and landings in a simulator each month. This role not only provides an essential step in a pilot’s career at Cathay but also opens the door for advancement. After approximately five years, Second Officers can be promoted to First Officer, making it an efficient and cost-effective pathway into Cathay Pacific for individuals with limited flight time and no jet experience.

Eligibility Criteria for Prospective Second Officers

Cathay Pacific has set forth specific requirements for the Second Officer position. Applicants must hold either an ICAO Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) or a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) with a Multi Engine Instrument Rating (MEIR) and credits for same-state ATPL examinations, achieved without exemption or conversion. A minimum of 250 flying hours is required, with a preference for candidates who have 1000 hours and Multi-crew cooperation experience. For Aerocadet’s Canada or US integrated program graduates, the requirements as following:

• FAA or TCCA Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) or Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) with Multi Engine (AMEL) and Instrument Rating (IR).
• At least 250 hours of flying experience; candidates with 1000 hours and Multi-crew cooperation experience are preferred. (Read how to obtain multi-crew experience in the United States or Canada during Aerocadet internship)
• Possession of a valid Class 1 Medical Certificate.
• COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate.

As a summary, pretty much all the graduates from Aerocadet’s fully integrated flight training and internships programs in the US and Canada can apply for this position, with the competitive edge given to the pilots engaged in F-1 visa CPT/OPT internships in US or PGWP internships in Canada/

International passport holders with the aforementioned credentials can now apply for this position here >>> and, for preferential admission, contact North-American applicant coordination service via: jobs@cathaypacific.com

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About the Author:

Russ Sherwood is an airline captain and a line check pilot at a major US airline flying the A320/321 fleet. He has logged over 9000 flight hours and holds airline, commercial and flight instructor pilot licenses issued by the FAA (US), CAAC (China) and DGCA (Indonesia).  Russ is also a lead aviation career development consultant for Aerocadet.