smallwing, i have to say i agree with you on the politics issue at cx. when i originally inquired about employment with cx, i talked with andrea. (lucas) she is quite friendly, i must say you are right about FAA training. besides hk, and japan, i am also rated in canada and the usa. canada by far has the best training. please know i do strongly support asians in the cockpit at cathay. but i also support people in the cockpit who love their job, and their company, and not just money. by the way, i also have heard some scary stories in regards to so called cadets at cathay. it is quite sad that some of these kids are permited in our cockpits.