Ouch! Standby for corporate spin control. I have to say, I would have done the same thing. If/when a hull loss occurs, he can now sleep a bit better. The only thing keeping these airlines from consistent tragedy, is the A320 that was designed with 3rd world pilot's in mind. (No, not a dis to the many gifted pilots who do fly the 320) but a printed fact that these aircraft were designed with a less experienced pilot in mind.
Cathay can charge more for their tickets for a reason!