Once you have successfully passed the CUT-E aptitude test and the ICAO English test, you will proceed to the interview stage. There are two parts to this stage: the Initial Interview and the Final Interview. Only candidates who pass the initial interview will proceed to the final. The initial interview is a 30-45 minute online session, while the final interview is a more extensive one-hour session. If you are based in Hong Kong, this will be in person; for overseas candidates, it will be conducted online. There may be a few weeks between the two stages, so it is crucial to continue your preparation.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Your Motivation and Background: These questions are designed to understand your personal journey and the "why" behind your application.
Tell me about yourself. (1-2 minute Self Introduction)
Why do you want to become a pilot?
Why did you switch careers, especially after all your experience?
Why didn't you apply when we opened after COVID?
What have you done since your passion for aviation appeared?
Why not study aviation in university if you're passionate?
Preparation and Commitment: This is where you demonstrate your investment.
Aside from qualifications, what have you done to prepare for this?
Did you read the whole PHAK book or just the recommended chapters?
Why did you book a trial flight for yourself?
Why didn’t you complete solo flight, or obtain PPL?
Why do you only have simulator experience and not real flying?
What did you talk about with your mentors, study group, or current cadets?
Knowledge of the Role and Cathay Pacific: This section tests your research and genuine interest in the company.
What do you know about our Cadet Pilot Program?
Where do we train them?
What is the license you get after course completion?
What is the position you will get after course completion?
What are the duties of a Second Officer?
What are your career goals?
Tell me about our fleet. What aircraft do Second Officers fly at Cathay?
What are our new destinations?
What Cathay fleet do you like and why?
Situational and Behavioral Questions: These questions are used to understand your past behavior in specific situations.
How do you feel about starting over in a junior position and working with young people?
Why did you fail the last time you applied? What have you done since then?
Logistics and Closing: These are standard questions to wrap up the interview.
What is your availability/notice period?
Do you have any questions for us?
CV and cover letter approval, online E-Cut test, initial interview, completion of medical form, and final interview in Hong Kong as the final recruitment stage before any further offer steps.
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Application
I applied online. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Cathay Pacific (Hong Kong) in Apr 2026
Interview
The interview experience was fairly average. The HR staff didn’t come across as very professional—they tended to show their reactions to your answers quite obviously. If you don’t have any flight experience, it’s probably not worth attending, as they seem to be looking for candidates who not only have flying experience but also the financial means to support their own flight training. It’s also possible that they’re not actively hiring at the moment.