HKIAA and HKA Sign MoU to Nurture Future Pilots for Hong Kong and the Mainland

On 30 March 2023, the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy (HKIAA) and Hong Kong Airlines (HKA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the intention of nurturing high-quality and well-trained commercial airline pilots for Hong Kong and the Mainland. The collaboration between the two organisations also aims to jointly reinforce Hong Kong's position as a regional hub for civil aviation training.

The long-term prospect of qualified pilots in Hong Kong and the Mainland is expected to remain strong, prompting the industry and academic institutions to urgently develop a well-planned flight training roadmap to attract aspiring talents and meet soaring industry demand. Leveraging HKIAA's extensive experience in personal development, HKA's flight training capabilities, and the advanced simulation training facilities of both organisations, this collaboration will maximise the synergy in fostering the next generation of commercial airline pilots for Hong Kong and the Mainland. Ultimately, this initiative will contribute to building a much-needed talent pipeline for the future of the aviation industry.

Mr Simon LI, President of HKIAA, and Mr 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 coupled with 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 Mr Simon LI, President of HKIAA. “We are pleased that this plan is well supported by 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 alternative to cadet pilot training in Hong Kong.” HKIAA is currently seeking approval from the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department for CAD509(A) Flying Training Organisation authorisation, which will permit the cadet pilot training programme to be conducted in HKIAA. Upon completion of this cadet pilot training, graduates will receive job interviews from HKA for the post of Second Officer. 

Mr 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.