This forum is not filled with hugely positive comments about the company, especially during the present dispute. For
a pilot CX USED to be serious money, pretty good lifestyle, not too much stress and flying decent kit. Plenty of play time and spare cash for the toys and/or second and third property or business venture.
The company then started to address the high cost base in HK compared with other operators competing in the region. Allied to this was a fundamental change in attitude to aircrew. Incidentally I would argue Cathay are not unique in this. Aircrew globally are now regarded as simply one more group of airline employees. Yes more crucial to the operation than the finance manager or check in agent but still just one more group of employees. This is despite the seniority system which is (uniquely) in place within flying. Pilots also used to 'enjoy' a status within airlines which no longer exists.
These factors, together with pay cuts for
pre 1993 crew, new pay scales for new joiners, imposed contracts because of failed negotiations have soured many. The usual
contributors on this forum will tell you CX is no longer a 'career' airline.
I would simply judge for yourself. Speak to
people away from a bar! The airline has a very good product, has invested in lots of shiny new metal recently and,longer term,
has serious expansion plans. Get advice on pay and benefits, living in HK (if applicable) do some sums, specifically on retirment benefits and then make an informed decision. Some great operators flying for
CX who still love flying, they just hate the politics. You might just find it not as bad as you have been led to believe.
Regards
SH