Actively HiringHong KongAsia-PacificUnionized

Pilot Salary at Cathay Pacific

By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026

Hong Kong's premium carrier with tax-efficient compensation. World-class Asian network and generous travel benefits.

Salary Breakdown

Position	Year 1	Year 5	Year 10
First Officer	HK$550,000	HK$750,000	HK$900,000
Captain	HK$1,300,000	HK$1,650,000	HK$2,000,000

Salary Progression

First Officer

Year 1

HK$550,000

Year 5

HK$750,000

Year 10

HK$900,000

Captain

Year 1

HK$1,300,000

Year 5

HK$1,650,000

Year 10

HK$2,000,000

Benefits & Perks

Free travel (oneworld)

Housing allowance

Health insurance

Provident fund

Education allowance

Fleet Types

A321A330A350B777

1 pilot base worldwide

Requirements & Career

Minimum Flight Hours

2,500

Type Rating Provided

Yes

Career Progression

Average

Unionized

Yes

Quality of Life Rating

4/5

Based on schedule flexibility, base locations, commutability, travel benefits, and overall pilot satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Cathay Pacific pilot make?

A First Officer at Cathay Pacific earns HK$550,000 in year 1, rising to HK$900,000 by year 10. Captains earn HK$1,300,000 initially, reaching HK$2,000,000 at year 10.

Is Cathay Pacific hiring pilots in 2026?

Yes, Cathay Pacific is actively hiring pilots in 2026. Minimum flight hours required: 2,500.

What are the minimum hours to fly for Cathay Pacific?

Cathay Pacific requires a minimum of 2,500 total flight hours. Type rating training is provided by the airline.

Does Cathay Pacific provide type rating training?

Yes, Cathay Pacific provides type rating training for new hires on their fleet types: A321, A330, A350, B777.

What is the career progression like at Cathay Pacific?

Career progression at Cathay Pacific is rated as "Average". Pilots are unionized, which provides structured seniority-based advancement. Quality of life is rated 4/5.