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Japan Airlines vs Cathay Pacific
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Japan Airlines (JL) and Cathay Pacific (CX) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Japan Airlines
Cathay Pacific
Country
Japan
Hong Kong
Airline Type
Major Airline
Major International Airline
IATA Code
JL
CX
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
¥7,000,000 - ¥12,000,000
HK$500,000 - HK$900,000
Captain Salary
¥15,000,000 - ¥25,000,000
HK$1,200,000 - HK$2,000,000
Fleet
Boeing 737/767/777/787, Airbus A350
Airbus A321/330/350, Boeing 777
Requirements Comparison
Japan Airlines
- JCAB ATPL or ICAO equivalent
- Class 1 medical
- Japanese language required for domestic operations
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
Japan Airlines
Pros
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cons
- –Local language proficiency preferred
Cathay Pacific
Pros
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cons
- –High cost of living in Hong Kong
About Each Airline
Japan Airlines
Japan's prestigious flag carrier is known for exceptional service standards and modern fleet operations.
Full Japan Airlines 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 Japan Airlines or Cathay Pacific based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
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