Ask Captain Lim - An unsuccessful cadet pilot sharing his views on why he probably failed.

Your site is wonderful and it gives a lot of advices to those who want to become a pilot. If you have no objection, I would like to share with all on what had probably caused me to fail my cadet pilot interview with Cathay Pacific Airways.

My name is Johnson and I am 32 years old. I have worked for the last 10 years in the information technology sector. At the end of 2003, I sent in my application for the Cathay Pacific Airways Cadet Pilot Program and a few weeks later, I was invited to attend the selection process. The process consisted of 2 written tests (IQ and English), a simple medical check and an aptitude (psychomotor) test. I think I have passed those tests but failed in the preliminary interview.

At first, I was a little disappointed but I later realized that I was not prepared to be a pilot yet. I submitted my application because I wanted to change my job and found that a pilot's profession to be special, coveted by many and that the pay is good (I think). I also realized that, to be a pilot, you must be genuinely interested in it first, not merely wanting to be one just because of the attractions.

I have not given up my pursuit yet. I will prepare myself more thoroughly this year, like improving my English and my knowledge in aviation. If I finally find that this career is still not my cup of tea, then only will I give up pursuing it.

Could you kindly give me some advice as to whether there are any age limit on the Cadet Pilot Program? I will be 33 soon. Was the age factor a reason why I failed? Will my application be rejected the next time I submit it?

Thank you.

Johnson

Hi Johnson,

Thank you for sharing your views and why you were unsuccessful in the Cathay Pacific Airways Cadet Pilot interview. I am not very clear on the Cathay's Cadet Pilot Program policy. You can write to them to find out on the age and re-application issue.