Originally Posted by
mistertoms
Still researching and gathering information/costs for Cape Town. Also looking into New Zealand as an option too but in general, the costs are looking to be around 40-60% of HKIAA cadet program. I'd eventually want a multi engine instrument rating ATPL. I applied to CX cadet program 12 years ago and didn't make it after the interview. Since then, my career took another path and I've enough saved to consider HKIAA cadet program. I'm not young anymore, just turned 35 but the idea of pursuing this path again puts a smile on my face. I have no hours but have done a discovery flight in Cape Town and loved it. Will be going back to Cape Town this April for more.
Only saw your post just now. Don’t know if you have made up your mind yet and what your status is now.
I think we are in similar situation, just I am even older haha. I just got my PPL in South Africa this year. It was a great experience. I didn’t do the training in Cape Town, but in Pretoria, Wonderboom National Airport.
As local HKger, don’t really have too many choices to be a pilot. I think it is still a good option to join Cathay’s Cadet Pilot Programme.
For HKIAA programme, good that you have the money to do it, but I don’t haha. So no much I can comment on. But with the license you will acquire, I think you would have more options, just not guarantee.
For CPL in Cape Town, really need to do more research on the flight school. Ask for their aircraft/instructor to student ratio, coz if their resources is not enough, it will make your progress sluggish… and you may need more hours coz you don’t fly consistently. I had that problem… Also, there are many frustrations living in SA haha.
You are welcome to contact me. I am more than happy to share my experience of flight training in SA.
