Want to become a Cathay Pacific cabin crew member? Here’s everything you need to know about requirements, salary, benefits, training, and how to apply.
Quick summary
Cathay Pacific cabin crew earn around HKD 18,000 base salary per month, plus HKD 8,000–15,000 in flight allowances, but must pay for their own accommodation in Hong Kong. The height requirement is a 208cm arm-reach on tiptoe, and candidates must pass English proficiency tests, medical exams, and multiple interview stages. Recruitment is open year-round, with 6–8 weeks of intensive training in Hong Kong covering safety, first aid, and inflight service before officially starting the job.
Cathay Pacific cabin crew requirements
To qualify, you must meet these criteria:
- Age: At least 18 years old
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Languages: Fluent in English, plus preferably one of these: Cantonese, Mandarin, Bahasa Indonesia, Bahasa Malaysia, Filipino, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, or Thai
- Height: Minimum arm-reach of 208cm on tiptoe
- Skills: Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Experience: Prior work in aviation, hospitality, or customer service is a plus
- Medical & background checks:
- Must pass a medical fitness test
- Must clear a criminal background check
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate (per airline policy)
How do I apply for Cathay Pacific cabin crew? (Recruitment process 2025)
Step 1: Online application
- Apply through Cathay Pacific’s careers portal.
- Attach your CV, educational documents, and any relevant certifications.
Step 2: Online Assessments
Take language and aptitude tests to assess communication and problem-solving skills.
Step 3: Interview process
Group discussions, role-play scenarios, and one-on-one interviews to evaluate suitability.
Step 4: Medical examination
Fitness check to ensure you meet health and physical requirements.
Step 5: Final review & job offer
Successful candidates receive a conditional offer, followed by training in Hong Kong.
Cathay Pacific cabin crew training
What to expect during training?
Location: Training takes place in Hong Kong at Cathay Pacific’s headquarters.
Duration: Approximately 6–8 weeks.
Coursework includes:
- Safety procedures & emergency training
- First aid certification
- Customer service & hospitality skills
- Cultural awareness & teamwork
- Inflight service delivery
💡 Training is intense, but once completed, you’ll officially be a Cathay Pacific flight attendant.
Cathay Pacific cabin crew salary per month & annual pay (2025)
How much do Cathay Pacific flight attendants earn?
Annual salary: HKD 512,314 (USD 65,523) (includes base pay + allowances)
Estimated monthly breakdown:
- Base salary: ~HKD 18,000
- Flight hours & layover allowances: HKD 8,000 – 15,000
- Per diems & additional benefits: Varies by destination
💡 Pay increases: Salaries rise with experience and promotions. Senior crew members earn significantly more.
Cathay Pacific cabin crew benefits
- Travel perks: Discounted flights for you and your family
- Medical & insurance: Comprehensive healthcare coverage
- Career progression: Training and internal promotion opportunities
- Flexible work schedules: Monthly roster with rest days
- Retirement scheme: Long-term savings and pension options
Does Cathay Pacific provide accommodation?
Unlike some airlines, Cathay Pacific does NOT provide company housing for cabin crew.
However, layover hotel stays are covered for international flights.
Long-term housing options in Hong Kong:
- Squarefoot – Expat-friendly rentals
- Hongkonghomes – Housing listings for professionals
- Facebook rental groups – Crew members often share listings
Cathay Pacific cabin crew uniform 2025: What you need to know
- Classic red uniform with a structured look.
- Grooming standards: Strict rules on hair, makeup, and appearance.
- Tattoos: Must not be visible while in uniform. Covering tattoos with makeup or bandages is not allowed.
- Piercings: Only one pair of small earrings is permitted.
Cathay Pacific flight attendant life: What to expect
Want a first-hand look at a flight attendant’s daily routine? Watch this video:
Cathay Pacific cabin crew responsibilities
- Safety & first aid: Follow protocols and assist in emergencies
- Service excellence: Deliver personalised, high-quality inflight experiences
- Teamwork: Work effectively in a diverse, multicultural team
- Adaptability: Handle challenging passenger situations with confidence
- Regulatory compliance: Adhere to all aviation safety and security standards
Cathay Pacific cabin crew recruitment 2025: Is hiring open?
Cathay Pacific recruits year-round, but hiring volumes depend on demand.
Check latest vacancies here: Cathay Pacific Careers Portal
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary of a Cathay Pacific cabin crew?
New crew members earn around HKD 18,000 base salary per month, plus HKD 8,000–15,000 in flight allowances. This is higher than budget airlines but lower than Gulf carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways, where salaries are tax-free and include company housing.
Does Cathay Pacific provide accommodation for cabin crew?
No, Cathay Pacific does not offer company housing, but layover hotels are covered for flights. Many crew members share apartments in Hong Kong to reduce living costs, as rent can be expensive.
What is the Cathay Pacific height requirement?
The airline requires a minimum arm-reach of 208cm on tiptoe, which is checked during the interview. This is to ensure crew can access safety equipment in overhead compartments. If you’re close to the requirement, practice stretching exercises before the assessment.
How long is the Cathay Pacific cabin crew training?
Training lasts 6–8 weeks in Hong Kong and includes safety procedures, emergency response, first aid, customer service, and inflight operations. Unlike some airlines, Cathay Pacific does not provide free housing during training, so be prepared for temporary accommodation costs.
Is Cathay Pacific cabin crew recruitment open in 2025?
Yes, Cathay Pacific is actively hiring, but the number of open positions varies based on demand. It’s best to check their official careers portal regularly, as recruitment waves happen throughout the year.
What languages do I need to speak to become a Cathay Pacific flight attendant?
Fluency in English is required, and speaking an additional language like Cantonese, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, or a Southeast Asian language can improve your chances. Mandarin is a big advantage since many flights serve mainland China.
What is the Cathay Pacific cabin crew uniform policy?
Cabin crew wear a red uniform with a structured, professional look. Visible tattoos are not allowed, and covering them with makeup or bandages is prohibited. Grooming standards are strict, and only one pair of small earrings is permitted for female crew.
How do I apply for Cathay Pacific cabin crew?
Apply through the Cathay Pacific careers portal and complete online tests, interviews, and medical exams. Having previous customer service experience and demonstrating a strong team-oriented attitude will increase your chances of passing.
What are the benefits of working as a Cathay Pacific cabin crew?
Crew members receive discounted travel, medical insurance, a retirement savings plan, and career development opportunities. However, unlike airlines in the Middle East, Cathay Pacific does not offer tax-free salaries or free accommodation, so take that into account.