Ask Captain Lim

Dear Captain Lim,

Thank you for setting up this valuable website. I really appreciate it. I am interested in applying to Cathay Pacific Airways for the cadet pilot program. I have already been to the Cathay Pacific website and read about the program and requirements. I have a few questions that I hope you can clarify them for me (even though I know you are not from this airline).

1. Since the requirements stated there are just the basic ones, I am hoping if you can give me some advice or tips as to what (qualifications or experiences or knowledge etc) you think would be valuable as a candidate? What should be in the resume or cover letter that will be valuable to make me stand out and be chosen for the initial interview?

2. If I have a chance to get to the interview, how technical will the questions be? Do you think they will ask a lot of questions concerning airplanes or about flying?

3. I am currently living in Canada and I am planning to go back to Hong Kong if I am called for an interview. I believe I will be staying in a hotel during the selection process. Will you be able to tell me how long the selection process be? Do you think my chances will be affected because my application is sent from overseas?

4. I am starting to prepare for my interview. What do you recommend for me to read up for the interview (if I am notified to attend one)?

5. I know they have taken in lady pilots in Hong Kong (Rebecca Chiu, etc) but there are still proportionally fewer lady pilots than are male in the airlines here. Do you think that, being female, I will have lesser chances of being selected? I am just wondering if females will have equal chances of being accepted and be treated just and fair.

I really hope my dream will come true. If you have any other comments or suggestions, please let me know.

Thank you very much!

Nadia L

Hi Nadia,

1. To be called for the initial interview, you only need to have the basic qualifications as stated in their advertisement. Your normal resume would probably be given a cursory glance only but they are more interested in how you conduct and present yourself in the interview.

2. You must have some basic knowledge about flying and they do not expect great details about the aircraft.

3. I cannot give you an answer to this question because I don't know. Your chances is just as good as anybody who possess the basic qualifications.

4. Please read the past FAQ in my site and you will get a lot of tips there. Most airlines do follow a similar process in the recruitment of pilots.

5. I am sure you would be given an equal opportunity to prove yourself. If you have the natural pilot aptitude, I am positive you would be selected.

All the best!

Display 1 of 1 comments