On a day full of energy, more than 120 local young people with a passion for aviation gathered at the auditorium at Cathay Pacific’s headquarters for Aviation Youth Day (Hong Kong). Organised by the Hong Kong Branch of the Honourable Company of Air Pilots, with the Hong Kong Professional Airline Pilots Association (HKPAPA) and the Yau Tsim Mong District Office as co-organisers and supporters, the event was described as one of the largest aviation youth events in Hong Kong’s history. It inspired the next generation’s aviation dreams and highlighted possibilities extending from Hong Kong to the Greater Bay Area and the world. The programme featured a varied series of talks and interactive sessions. Cathay Pacific generously provided the venue; the event was not directly affiliated with Cathay Pacific.
Opening ceremony: igniting aviation dreams
Robert Jones, Chairman of the Hong Kong Branch of the Honourable Company of Air Pilots, opened the event. He encouraged young people to pursue their aviation dreams and highlighted Hong Kong’s distinctive strengths as a global aviation hub and a key part of the Greater Bay Area’s development. He then introduced the flight workshop leader, who explained fundamental aviation knowledge and principles, sparking the participants’ interest in flying.
The talk by the Honourable Company of Air Pilots’ Master, Richie Piper, was particularly inspiring. He shared the organisation’s long history and heritage and introduced pathways into aviation through recreational flying, model aircraft and scholarship applications. His accessible presentation helped young people see that opportunities are all around them, ready to be seized with courage.
Discovering the world of flying
Samantha, an active A350 pilot, offered a comprehensive perspective for young people hoping to enter aviation. She explained aspects of commercial aviation, including the practical use of the electronic flight bag (EFB), the technical knowledge behind flight operations and the details of a pilot’s daily work. She also showed footage recorded during flights, bringing the professionalism and appeal of aviation to life. Her presentation inspired many students and strengthened their determination to pursue their aviation dreams.
A personal story: Steven Cheung’s journey
Steven Cheung, Chairman of the Hong Kong Professional Airline Pilots Association, shared his journey to becoming an airline pilot with sincerity, emphasising the importance of persistence and determination. He pointed to the opportunities Hong Kong offers young people through its roles as an international financial centre and an aviation hub in the Greater Bay Area. He also shared practical interview techniques and advice to help aspiring pilots work towards their goals.
Exploring the principles of helicopter flight
Alexandre, an active 737 pilot, brought another perspective to the event. He explained the principles of helicopter flight in an accessible way and compared helicopters with fixed-wing aircraft, helping participants understand the diversity of aviation careers.
Participants’ reflections: dreams and inspiration
After the event, many participants said they had gained a great deal. Their reflections were filled with enthusiasm and inspiration:
Aaron from the youth network said: “Today’s event gave me a more comprehensive understanding of aviation. Hearing pilots’ real experiences in particular inspired me to pursue my dreams. I learned so much and felt the limitless possibilities of the future!”
Darren from La Salle College said: “Mr Cheung’s story helped me understand that success depends not only on skills, but also on sustained effort and perseverance. I have decided to make aviation my life’s goal. The interview techniques I learned today were very practical!”
Isabelle from The Independent Schools Foundation Academy shared: “Today’s talks were rich and varied. Every session, from recreational aviation to helicopter flying, left a deep impression on me. Samantha’s explanation of an airline pilot’s daily life especially reinforced that this is the direction I want to pursue!”
Conclusion: spreading wings and embracing the future
Aviation Youth Day (Hong Kong) gave the younger generation a valuable opportunity to understand aviation and encouraged them to look towards the Greater Bay Area and global aviation markets. More than an event, it was a platform for nurturing future aviation leaders. With the rise of the low-altitude economy and the rapid development of aviation, these young people are preparing to reach higher skies.
#YouthOpportunities #LowAltitudeEconomy #GreaterBayAreaAviationDreams #TakingFlight
