Cathay has always bonded cadets, this is not new. The 1500+ hr pilot is eligible for CTT program not the AE program and the course is only 8 weeks not 32. At then end of the first year the pilot can draw down 880000 as loan, that need not be paid back if you stay for a minimum of 6 years.
Lets compare this to JQ, that you have to pay app 150000AUD for the training and then work your backside off to pay it back, effectively flying for peanuts.
CX is still the best gig in town...IMHO