Horsefun,
I lasted at CX only 1.5 years...here are some of the reasons why:
Tried to take F/O slot on freighter and was told no one could go on the freighters as F/O until they finished year one as S/O..then an ex-RAAF guy getting his F/O freighter who has less time in the company than me. (the point here is lack of seniority and perpetual lies and favoritism)
The non-stop sim checks with a very critical grading system where your whole future is based on. (about every six weeks)
Arrogant managers who think Cathay invented aviation (no, they truly think that, not an exaggeration).
Lack of flying, and having to deal with egos from people who were hired at CX as 500-hour wonders. (they're there and they're captains! not talking about Cadets either)
Upgrades to F/O going on 4 years. S/O pay maxes out at 5,000USD/mo. after year 3. I expect to make more than 5,000USD/mo. after 4 years with a company. heck, I made more than that as regional airline pilot.
Too many hoops to jump through to just basically keep your job (upgrade interviews, review boards, bla bla bla).
Staff travel, CX rapes the employees in this department.
But on a bright note, I got to fly (actually only worked the radios) a "shiny" 747-400 while not thinking much about medical benefits and retirements.
I give it 2 days before the Cathay Pprune gods ban me from here...
Shoot me a private message if you have more questions.
good luck to you if you're trying to go there, it's a great place to get some "heavy, international" and go somewhere real.
What I enjoyed the most about Cathay Pacific was that most of the guys I flew with on the line were real nice. I will miss that.
bye bye