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Air New Zealand vs Cathay Pacific
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Air New Zealand (NZ) and Cathay Pacific (CX) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Air New Zealand
Cathay Pacific
Country
New Zealand
Hong Kong
Airline Type
Major Airline
Major International Airline
IATA Code
NZ
CX
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
NZ$90,000 - NZ$160,000
HK$500,000 - HK$900,000
Captain Salary
NZ$200,000 - NZ$340,000
HK$1,200,000 - HK$2,000,000
Fleet
Airbus A320/321, Boeing 777/787
Airbus A321/330/350, Boeing 777
Requirements Comparison
Air New Zealand
- CAA NZ ATPL
- 2,500+ hours
- Class 1 medical
- NZ residency preferred
Cathay Pacific
- ICAO ATPL
- 2,500+ hours total
- 1,500+ on multi-crew jets
- Class 1 medical
- Hong Kong resident or willing to relocate
Pros & Cons
Air New Zealand
Pros
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cathay Pacific
Pros
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cons
- –High cost of living in Hong Kong
About Each Airline
Air New Zealand
New Zealand's national carrier, repeatedly named the world's best airline. Known for exceptional culture and lifestyle balance.
Full Air New Zealand career guide →Cathay Pacific
Hong Kong's flagship carrier offers tax-efficient compensation and access to one of Asia's premium aviation networks.
Full Cathay Pacific career guide →Calculate Your Salary
Model your earning potential at Air New Zealand or Cathay Pacific based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
Salary Calculator