Cadet AB or AE?

[coffincorners]

Hello guys,

I have a bit of a dilemma on my hands right now. The dilemma that I now face is whether to apply for the Cadet AB initio or to complete my CPL in the coming 2-3 years and then apply for the AE program at Cathay.

The reason that I am facing this dilemma is because I am getting older, I am currently 27 years old and would like some insight on where the cut off is for AB initio or for AE at CX age wise?

Money is not much of an issue as I can save up enough to continue my training all the way till my CPL. However, if I do my CPL and I am 30 years old or so will CX still be willing to accept me into the AE program age wise?

I also heard that if you apply for the AE program that you get back the training costs that you spent on getting your CPL, as each Cadet is given 1.1 mil hkd "training loan" and you get back whatever you do not use? Any insight and help from experienced Pilots or successful cadets is welcome. Thanks!

[SloppyJoe]

Do you only want to work in Hong Kong? If you do apply for ab initio and basically get the job without forking out loads of cash. If you want to be a pilot but don't care where, and are able to work without needing a visa in a country with a lot of aviation, still apply for CX ab initio but continue with your training.

The dilemma you have is for the wrong reason. If you want to fly in HKG only, then of course try for ab initio, with CX, KA and Gov. If you cant work overseas without needing a visa the dilemma will come if you don't get into an ab initio course and have to decide if it is worth throwing money at to try and improve your chances.