Hello Captain Doug,
Been a long time follower of your blog, I must say you have given us pilot wannabes all the right reasons to pursue our dreams.
I’ve recently applied to Cathay’s cadet pilot program, and as I am preparing myself for the interviews, I came across a post bellowing detailing some pilot work conditions:
http://www.pprune.org/fragrant-harbour-wannabes/430529-why-i-knocked-back-cathay.html
I understand there are a lot of Cathay-bashing comments on PPruNe. Yet is there any validity towards the claim? As a long-haul pilot who has been through the stages of SO and FO, I would be glad if you could shed some insight to this matter!
I would continue to pursue the dream, but would love to hear from a seasoned professional on the realities.
Hi.... That was quite a write up on PPRuNE!
I remember reading this stuff when I had an interview with Emirates six years ago. I was debating whether to go because of all the negativity. But I'm glad the family and I went. They are a very professional company. But as my friend who flies for Emirates said, "the company has many warts." :) A few Air Canada pilots did go. A few have since quit. For me there were too many issues to overlook.
We also have a few ex-Cathay pilots. As you probably know, Cathay fired several a few years ago. Since then most returned.
I know of one pilot, flying for Cathay, based in Vancouver because he couldn't stand the pollution in HKG. I just noticed they all got raises. :)
I did start at Air Canada as a cruise pilot and it's a great way to learn the company's culture. But I had 8000 hours so taking a future flying job was easier. For many...being a cruise pilot can be tough watching others fly- and that included me!
There's never an easy answer. I would at least try to jump through their hoops in the selection process.
Who knows, you may be pleasantly surprised.
Hope this helps.
Captain Doug
10 comments:
Doug, did you go from Cruise Pilot to RHS 340? If so, how did that happen? wouldn't seniority (juniorotiy) send you to the EMB or if you're lucky the 320?
Whywhyzed. I went right seat on the A320 after being a "cruiser." Then right seat on the A340/A330. There was no Embraer back then.
The "jungle jet" was still on the drawing board. :)
Off to MIA tomorrow.
Doug
Cpt. Doug: As noted, your regular readers well understand that your support of prospective pilots os very public, most of the mentorship is back-channel and provate stuff. I KNOW that you do it and congratulations! It is worthy stuff. I enjoy hearing about it when the kids' privacy is maintained.
The Hit Counts are growing... I know why... This is a great blog and the driver knows where he is going. That you enjoy your work shows through and as always, just doing NICE is a great place to start.
-Craig
Hi Captain Doug, I have been following your blog and really love the information you shared on the blog.
Recently i applied to the cadet pilot program from Cathay and they called me for an interview in a week in Vancouver. Its my dream to become a pilot and i am currently learning my PPL. I just want to know what tips do you have for an interview for a cadet pilot and what personality or characteristics you will need to become a successful pilot like you.
Thx
Craig. As my wise mother used to say, "treat everybody equally."
When I aspired to be a pilot, there was no one to ask for guidance. I was all on my own.
Even today, if you walk into the "guidance counsellor's office" and mention you want to pursue aviation as a career, they would not be able to steer you in the right direction.
And yes, "Nice" works. It might be boring at times, but it keeps you out of trouble. :)
Having said that, we all know where nice guys finish. :)
Captain Doug
Jack.
As you can tell, another candidate for this same program prompted me to post..he lives in Toronto.
Looks like you already have competition. :)
I do know Cathay's selection process is very thorough much like Emirates. I can attest to Emirates. It was three days of "jumping through the hoops."
I know there are books available in aviation book stores to help you get through the process both for Emirates and Cathay. If I were you, I would pick up a copy.
Also I'd be honing my skills with the "emotional IQ" tests. Seems many companies, including Air Canada, are going this way. Some are available on the internet.
But the best words of wisdom I can offer...."just be yourself."
Have fun with it!
Captain Doug
Hello Jack,
I am an CPP applicant from YYZ, and am still waiting for an interview opportunity. Mind to share when did you applied to the program?
Michael ~
hi,
i applied online in around Sep to Oct. Its nice to see people who are also interested in this program. it is competition but what i think, we would have a better chance to get through if we work together
i found this form
http://www.pprune.org/fragrant-harbour-wannabes/378978-cathay-pacific-cadet-pilot-programme-84.html
which contains alot of helpful information and pass experience about the interview and selection stages.
I'll be having mine today (thursday) and hope you get an email too.
Jack
Michael and Jack. Everyone will be waiting for your results and to hear about your adventures.
All the best guys.
Captain Doug
Jack has left a new comment on your post "Career Decisions":
hi,
i applied online in around Sep to Oct. Its nice to see people who are also interested in this program. it is competition but what i think, we would have a better chance to get through if we work together
i found this form
http://www.pprune.org/fragrant-harbour-wannabes/378978-cathay-pacific-cadet-pilot-programme-84.html
which contains alot of helpful information and pass experience about the interview and selection stages.
I'll be having mine today (thursday) and hope you get an email too.
Jack
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