Cathay Pacific has successfully concluded its 2024 “I Can Fly” program, marking a significant milestone in youth development in Hong Kong. After a five-year hiatus, the program returned this year, culminating in a grand graduation ceremony on 31 August 2024, where around 300 students celebrated their achievements and prepared to embark on their future aviation careers.
The event was presided over by Cathay Pacific’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, Lavinia Lau, with Acting Chief Secretary for Administration of the Hong Kong SAR (HKSAR) Government, Cheuk Wing-hing, as the guest of honor. In a video message, the Chief Executive of HKSAR, John Lee Ka-chiu, highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent in the aviation industry. He commended Cathay for its ongoing efforts in this area, emphasizing that the program not only provides students with invaluable insights into aviation operations but also plays a crucial role in strengthening Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub.
Lavinia Lau said, “The I Can Fly program is Cathay’s flagship youth development initiative. We are delighted to have witnessed the growth and progress of our program members throughout this remarkable journey, and to see their passion for the aviation industry and awareness of social issues deepen. I am extremely proud of their hard work and accomplishments and look forward to seeing them flourish in the aviation industry in the future.”
Throughout the six-month program, the students were guided by Cathay’s volunteer leaders and exposed to various aspects of the aviation industry, including digital technology and cargo operations. They also participated in an exchange tour to Zhuhai, expanding their knowledge of the Greater Bay Area’s aviation development. In addition, the program encouraged students to engage in social service projects, focusing on areas such as youth development, waste reduction, and carbon neutrality.
A standout experience for 30 exceptional students was an aviation trip to Flight Training Adelaide in Australia, where they experienced the life of a cadet pilot, including flying a small aircraft under the guidance of instructors.
Launched in 2003, the “I Can Fly” program has now seen over 4,400 graduates, many of whom have pursued careers in aviation. Cathay’s commitment to youth development extends beyond this initiative, encompassing a wide range of community programs that provide young people with opportunities to explore careers in aviation, thereby contributing to the industry’s future talent pool and reinforcing Hong Kong’s global aviation hub status.