Purpleanga

I'd say yes based on who I've talked to in the U.S. It all has to do with the FAA vs the JAA. There is bitterness that anyone can complete FAA vs the JAA where you actually have to have good knowledge. I don't understand it. Ratings must be harder but they still have 500 hour guys flying 737/a320s over there. Can't compare that with the ton of experience over here.

4everFO

For those waiting for a start date...Chief Executive's weekly news (mostly addressing the financial meltdown) for Friday the 17th states that:

"We will begin by suspending all recruitment at both Cathay Pacific and Dragonair. This suspension applies to recruitment for all vacancies. In exceptional circumstances, and only after approval is given at Director level, vacancies may be allowed to be filled,..."

FO

Sike

F.O.s who recently got through the second interview were told to expect mid 2010 course dates... straight from Deputy Chief's mouth. However, I think there will continue to be a moderate bit of S.O. hiring.

4everFO

I hope that you are right about the SO hiring, but I read the CEOs update as a total freeze. I do not want to even guess what the SO to JFO upgrade time will be if they do in fact suspend pilot recruiting, even short term. With no airplanes being delivered (due to the Boeing strike) and B744s being flown to the Middle East (only needs 2 pilots instead of 4), I think we are looking at things coming to a grinding halt. Good thing CX hired all those direct entry captains.

FO

4everFO

Just received an update from the Director of Flight Ops...hiring for pilots is not affected by the freeze, so pilot recruitment "not coming to a grinding halt." It will slow. Stated budget plan for 2009 calls for 100+ pilots and 2010 250+. However, he also stated the budget plans were being re done in light of the current economy and the Boeing strike.

FO

marcal

aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh