Aviation Academy’s Pilot Training Programme leverages home-based carrier support

A new commercial airline pilot training programme organised by the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy (HKIAA) is expected to be launched later this year upon receiving approval from the Civil Aviation Department (CAD).

HKIAA is currently seeking approval from CAD for CAD509(A) Flying Training Organisation authorisation to conduct the cadet pilot training programme. Upon completion of cadet pilot training, graduates will receive job interview opportunities from Hong Kong Airlines (HKA) for the post of Second Officer, as part of the carrier’s collaboration with HKIAA.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between HKIAA and HKA in the past week on the collaboration, with the aim to reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a regional hub for civil aviation training.

As the long-term prospect of qualified pilots in Hong Kong and the Mainland is expected to remain strong, the aviation industry and academic institutions have been stepping up efforts to formulate a flight training roadmap to attract aspiring talent and meet soaring demand. Leveraging HKIAA’s extensive experience in talent development, HKA’s flight training capabilities, and the advanced simulation training facilities of both organisations, the collaboration will maximise the synergy in nurturing the next generation of commercial airline pilots for Hong Kong and the Mainland, and contribute to the building of a much-needed talent pipeline for the future.

Simon Li, President of HKIAA, and Hou Wei, Chairman of HKA, signed the MoU under the witness of Captain Jack Ip, Director of Flight Training and Engineering of HKIAA, and Captain Jeff Sun, President of HKA, at the signing ceremony held on HKIAA campus.

“Through partnerships with local tertiary education institutes and approved flying schools in the Mainland or overseas regions, HKIAA plans to launch a series of commercial airline pilot training programmes starting this year,” said Simon Li, President of HKIAA. “We are pleased that this plan receives strong support from a home-based carrier. The signing of the MoU is a critical milestone that marks a new chapter for local commercial flying training, and provides potential entrants with an additional option to receive cadet pilot training in Hong Kong.”

Hou Wei, Chairman of HKA, further added, “In addition to our experienced trainers, Hong Kong Airlines boasts an 11-storey training edifice, furnished with world-class training facilities, inclusive of the CAE 7000XR full flight simulators qualified by Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department and Civil Aviation Administration of China, and dynamic simulated cockpits to impart proficiency in diverse aircraft operations. Our utilisation of advanced technology and bespoke training curricula also ensures the provision of efficient civil aviation pilot training. We are committed to cultivating individuals with a deep passion for the aviation industry, and eagerly anticipate a close partnership with HKIAA to collaboratively share resources and nurture a new generation of aviation elites.”

While the global aviation industry is on the path to full recovery, the long-term outlook for Asia-Pacific’s aviation sector is anticipated to be very promising. By partnering with HKA, HKIAA expects a substantial increase in the number of pilots, and aims to make a significant contribution to the aviation industry in Hong Kong and the Mainland.