Cathay Interview Change?
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I completely understand your point about the gravity of moving family to the other side of the world. I agree entirely. However, if you make the decision to come, then you take the territory therein. It's not for the feint of heart, and doesn't work for many. It's also a massive ordeal to move back again.
I'm just here trying to share some truths I wish I had of found out before I signed up (not saying I wouldn't have signed even if I did know... And I'm sure plenty of info was out there but I was too dumb to see it). Whilst my tone might at times indicate a bias, I think you'll find my comments to be mostly factual and fair.
Last edited by JayTee777300; 6th Apr 2017 at 03:44.
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I agree entirely with your point, and it's pretty much the point I am trying to make. It's not an easy thing. It's not for the feint of heart. New joiners need to look at this stuff seriously and consider all aspects of this gig. Don't just see the shiny jet and $... Even if it is better than your current job, think about where you would be in 5 and in 10yrs. This job at Cathay can affect so much more... And not all positively.
I'm just here trying to share some truths I wish I had of found out before I signed up (not saying I wouldn't have signed even if I did know... And I'm sure plenty of info was out there but I was too dumb to see it). Whilst my tone might at times indicate a bias, I think you'll find my comments to be mostly factual and fair.
I'm just here trying to share some truths I wish I had of found out before I signed up (not saying I wouldn't have signed even if I did know... And I'm sure plenty of info was out there but I was too dumb to see it). Whilst my tone might at times indicate a bias, I think you'll find my comments to be mostly factual and fair.
Like every job, you need to weigh it up, and you need to have an idea of where to turn if it isn't working out.
For me, it was a better job. It wasn't (and isn't) a lifetime commitment. I weighed up the negative effects of moving (and potentially moving back) against the positives. I did a great deal of research about what I was getting in to, and as such, I've had no surprises. It wasn't about the shiny jet for the shiny jet's sake. The training, type rating and type of operations factored in to my decision - as you say - where will it put you in 5-10 years time? Well, to be blunt, it has put me in a more marketable position than had I not joined. That gives me more places to turn if it falls apart for me.
For me, if it all folds tomorrow, it's been worth it. For some, it hasn't. That's all I can say. Remember that 'worth it' is different to 'perfect'.
Join Date: Mar 2011
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Well... Let's hope Cathay realise sometime soon that they aren't paying good money to train guys for a career at Cathay... Rather they are training guys for a career elsewhere.
Somehow I doubt they will work out soon though.
Somehow I doubt they will work out soon though.
McNugget,
In the US arrests can nearly always be expunged when the charges are dropped, dismissed or of course you're found not guilty.
Not so convictions, it depends on the laws in that state
In the US arrests can nearly always be expunged when the charges are dropped, dismissed or of course you're found not guilty.
Not so convictions, it depends on the laws in that state
Last edited by stilton; 6th Apr 2017 at 06:42.
I left 15 years ago and must say that this has turned into an interesting discussion well worth reading by a potential candidate.
Re training pilots for other airlines; perhaps that's factored in.
Re training pilots for other airlines; perhaps that's factored in.
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After tax , rent, gas , car and insurance , I had savings of around $100 each month . Whilst you lot enjoyed 10 beers in DB and got tanked at the rugby 7s. Just as you are doing now as we speak !
Thread Starter
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Thanks for your responses. I'm not a typical yank who would be applying. I'm single, no kids. I've traveled to many countries and have even taken short classes on cultural diversity. I've spent time in LA, so I know about expense and bad air.
However, the comments that are concerning about Cathay are the feelings of being disrespected by others and the low morale at Cathay. However, on the other hand, I worked at two regionals in the USA in the past and I felt like I was in junior high school when dealing with my coworkers. I'll never work at a regional again. I don't mind moving. Also, the direction the US is going with Donald Trump is making Cathay look more attractive.
However, the comments that are concerning about Cathay are the feelings of being disrespected by others and the low morale at Cathay. However, on the other hand, I worked at two regionals in the USA in the past and I felt like I was in junior high school when dealing with my coworkers. I'll never work at a regional again. I don't mind moving. Also, the direction the US is going with Donald Trump is making Cathay look more attractive.
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The morale is rock bottom, I'll give you that.
However, the vast, vast majority of my colleagues are great to be around in both a professional and social sense. Most are keen for a couple of beers at the end of a long flight, too.
However, the vast, vast majority of my colleagues are great to be around in both a professional and social sense. Most are keen for a couple of beers at the end of a long flight, too.
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Aviationluver:
As a US citizen working in the USA you enjoy 1st world labour protection. You have accountability (i.e. those who are complete f**ktards generally don't last that long).
Coming to Hong Kong Pong - there is no labour law protection, managers are lunatics that inspire one to commit violence upon them if the chance were to arise, and your contract was last used by someone else as toilet paper. You have no rights, no redress.
As previous posters have mentioned, the USA is or about to undergo a major hiring boom in the legacy carriers. Hang in for that...your quality of life (work, family, medical) will be much better.
Don't worry about "The Donald" - he has 4 years to either prove he was right or wrong, possibly shorter if he really screws the pooch.
I hear what you say about being treated like a child at a regional...magnify that exponentially to a 'premium' carrier and you have CX. I urge you in all sincerity to think carefully about coming to CX
If you do come to CX...could you kindly identify yourself a few years later so that we can all say "Told you so..."
As a US citizen working in the USA you enjoy 1st world labour protection. You have accountability (i.e. those who are complete f**ktards generally don't last that long).
Coming to Hong Kong Pong - there is no labour law protection, managers are lunatics that inspire one to commit violence upon them if the chance were to arise, and your contract was last used by someone else as toilet paper. You have no rights, no redress.
As previous posters have mentioned, the USA is or about to undergo a major hiring boom in the legacy carriers. Hang in for that...your quality of life (work, family, medical) will be much better.
Don't worry about "The Donald" - he has 4 years to either prove he was right or wrong, possibly shorter if he really screws the pooch.
I hear what you say about being treated like a child at a regional...magnify that exponentially to a 'premium' carrier and you have CX. I urge you in all sincerity to think carefully about coming to CX
If you do come to CX...could you kindly identify yourself a few years later so that we can all say "Told you so..."
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Cathay is not a job
Its a whole working life committment to HK
Took me 26 years to land a job back home.
If you have a turbine job in your home country
hang on for dear life, it will lead to better things at home.
There is no surplus after living costs anymore, enjoy
your home country and life-long freinds,family.
Untimately thats all life is. Beware the cx trojan horse!
Its a whole working life committment to HK
Took me 26 years to land a job back home.
If you have a turbine job in your home country
hang on for dear life, it will lead to better things at home.
There is no surplus after living costs anymore, enjoy
your home country and life-long freinds,family.
Untimately thats all life is. Beware the cx trojan horse!
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I interviewed with Cathay over 10 years ago. Back then an initial written test and one-on-one interview took place in NYC. Then, a few weeks later, I did the complete interview in HK. Unfortunately, I didn't get hired.
I might be interviewing in a few months. The Cathay recruiter told me over the phone that the interview process has changed.
Now, there is no pre-interview. Just a flight to HK and the first order of business is sim eval in the B747-400. If you do well on the sim eval, then medical and group exercise and one-on-one. Is this correct?
Can anyone give me more information? Thanks.
I might be interviewing in a few months. The Cathay recruiter told me over the phone that the interview process has changed.
Now, there is no pre-interview. Just a flight to HK and the first order of business is sim eval in the B747-400. If you do well on the sim eval, then medical and group exercise and one-on-one. Is this correct?
Can anyone give me more information? Thanks.
The interview will be as follows:
On Day 1
-Group Exercise
-Technical Quiz
-Simulator Assessment B-747(400/800)
You will receive an email notification at the end of Day 1
If you continue to Day 2, you must book the ASPEQ ICAO English Language Assessment and credit card will be required for payment.
On Day 2
-Interview (HR and Technical)
-Personality Profile (computer-based)
-ASPEQ ICAO English
-Medical
That's it!
Join Date: Jan 2011
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Can't disagree with any of that. Like I said, I knew what I was getting in to. For those that didn't apply due diligence; I don't feel sorry for them, but regret the outcome.
Like every job, you need to weigh it up, and you need to have an idea of where to turn if it isn't working out.
For me, it was a better job. It wasn't (and isn't) a lifetime commitment. I weighed up the negative effects of moving (and potentially moving back) against the positives. I did a great deal of research about what I was getting in to, and as such, I've had no surprises. It wasn't about the shiny jet for the shiny jet's sake. The training, type rating and type of operations factored in to my decision - as you say - where will it put you in 5-10 years time? Well, to be blunt, it has put me in a more marketable position than had I not joined. That gives me more places to turn if it falls apart for me.
For me, if it all folds tomorrow, it's been worth it. For some, it hasn't. That's all I can say. Remember that 'worth it' is different to 'perfect'.
Like every job, you need to weigh it up, and you need to have an idea of where to turn if it isn't working out.
For me, it was a better job. It wasn't (and isn't) a lifetime commitment. I weighed up the negative effects of moving (and potentially moving back) against the positives. I did a great deal of research about what I was getting in to, and as such, I've had no surprises. It wasn't about the shiny jet for the shiny jet's sake. The training, type rating and type of operations factored in to my decision - as you say - where will it put you in 5-10 years time? Well, to be blunt, it has put me in a more marketable position than had I not joined. That gives me more places to turn if it falls apart for me.
For me, if it all folds tomorrow, it's been worth it. For some, it hasn't. That's all I can say. Remember that 'worth it' is different to 'perfect'.
I completely agree with that sentiment. If somebody wants to pay me a Delta Airline captains salary to fly a BE58 Baron I will do it.
I dont need the shiny A350 to feel good about myself but would take the job at CX, get the heavy time and with 2000 hours of international experience and just move on to greener pastures.
I will never ever be a company man because when the bad times hit the company will never ever have your back, just the shareholders and managements bonuses in mind. They will cut you loose regardless of your mortgage and childrens school fees, food etc.
Those who complain at CX, if you all just leave they will get their act together or go under. Go back to Aus, Europe, Canada, South Africa and the US etc. Use your well gained international experience and get jobs with KLM, Lufthansa, BA, Austrian, TAP, Delta, United, Qantas, Air NZ etc.
I have an interview offer there but as I fly a jet in the US I have heaps more options so dont need CX S..T in my life. However even if I did not I would go get a 777/330 rating of them, get 1000 hours plus and just move on if I went and got a CX job.
To hell with CX, do what is right for your future and your families. CX made their own bed now they must lie in it.
Im not American by the way either, I have Aus/British and South African citizenship. My passports help but there is always a way to work in various countries if you just do a little research and networking/marketing of yourself, yes even the US.
If you're just in it for the money.. join the club. But be warned that a 120k salary earned and spent in hk will not deliver the lifestyle it would afford in the USA. If you need a realistic insight to how you will be treated then just Google the company history of dealing with flight crew employees.. it's nothing short of appalling. And it's constant and relentless..the attack never lets up.. I've seen 25+ years of it and it's accelerating downhill. Forget the word career.. ask yourself where you want to be in only 5 years.. because I absolutely guarantee you that (if you survive 5 years under the training system here) you'll want to be anywhere but hk for a 'career '!! Good luck but please look out a little further than the end of your nose!!
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A $120k salary in HK will provide a similar lifestyle as if you were earning $50K in the US. And that is only if you are single. If you are married with children, it is below the poverty level. And i'm not kidding.
'you must book the ASPEQ ICAO English Language Assessment and credit card will be required for payment.'
What does this mean, applicants have to pay to test their English skills ?
What does this mean, applicants have to pay to test their English skills ?
Join Date: Apr 2012
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I can only comment for a young single person
50k usd a year is about $ 3,300 a month. I was on similar wages at some point.
Rent in a second tier city not really close to downtown was $900 for a small one bed. Food and beverage is about $20 - $40 a day depending on how much you go out , let's average it out at $30. Car , gas and insurance about $300. Cell phone TV internet about $150 . Miscellaneous (groceries , laundry, hydro , utilities ) another $350
Gives me savings of about $700, was usually far lower than that.
From a Google search and from friends and family that live in Hk .
Let's take a salary of net 100,000 HKD after taxes are paid
One bedroom in central or Kowloon side ?
Seeing anything between 17,000-30,000. Let's average at 25,000?
Daily food and beverages , let's assume 900 HKD a day ? Don't think people actually spend this much , especially if they are flying long haul .
Phone tv internet I read is quite cheap let's put it on the higher end 1000 per month ?
Utilities another 2000 per month ?
Transport another 3000?
Miscellaneous another 10,000?
That sums up to 68,000 , I'll round it up to 70,000hkd for your expenses .
Gives you 30k of savings which is $3,861 USD.
Am I missing something here ?
50k usd a year is about $ 3,300 a month. I was on similar wages at some point.
Rent in a second tier city not really close to downtown was $900 for a small one bed. Food and beverage is about $20 - $40 a day depending on how much you go out , let's average it out at $30. Car , gas and insurance about $300. Cell phone TV internet about $150 . Miscellaneous (groceries , laundry, hydro , utilities ) another $350
Gives me savings of about $700, was usually far lower than that.
From a Google search and from friends and family that live in Hk .
Let's take a salary of net 100,000 HKD after taxes are paid
One bedroom in central or Kowloon side ?
Seeing anything between 17,000-30,000. Let's average at 25,000?
Daily food and beverages , let's assume 900 HKD a day ? Don't think people actually spend this much , especially if they are flying long haul .
Phone tv internet I read is quite cheap let's put it on the higher end 1000 per month ?
Utilities another 2000 per month ?
Transport another 3000?
Miscellaneous another 10,000?
That sums up to 68,000 , I'll round it up to 70,000hkd for your expenses .
Gives you 30k of savings which is $3,861 USD.
Am I missing something here ?
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@pfvspnf
I think the difference is in the size of the 1 bedroom apartment. In the second tier US City, $900 / month would get you a good sized, relatively nicely equipped 1 bedroom apartment.
In HK, it would be a very small place, with likely no separate dryer, no dishwasher, and a dorm room fridge. At 25k / month, it's either very small and really nice, or big and really old, like hot plates instead of a stove top old.
I contend if you are single, or even a couple, come to HK. It's high school for middle-aged people and lots of fun until you have kids, then it's a bit of a pain in the *ss.
I think the difference is in the size of the 1 bedroom apartment. In the second tier US City, $900 / month would get you a good sized, relatively nicely equipped 1 bedroom apartment.
In HK, it would be a very small place, with likely no separate dryer, no dishwasher, and a dorm room fridge. At 25k / month, it's either very small and really nice, or big and really old, like hot plates instead of a stove top old.
I contend if you are single, or even a couple, come to HK. It's high school for middle-aged people and lots of fun until you have kids, then it's a bit of a pain in the *ss.