Cathay has launched the 2025 edition of its flagship youth development programme, I Can Fly, unveiling a refreshed format aimed at inspiring young people in Hong Kong to explore careers in aviation while contributing to the community.
The programme, which began in 2003, will this year involve around 2,000 participants aged 10 to 18 and will centre on four key pillars: Education, Discovery, Exploration, and Social Service.
The new edition was launched with two Aviation Explorer Days, which welcomed 870 students from underprivileged backgrounds, supported by 70 Cathay volunteers and delivered in partnership with the Hong Kong SAR Government’s Strive and Rise initiative.
Under Secretary for Transport and Logistics Liu Chun-san officiated at the launch alongside Cathay Director People Patricia Hwang, who is also serving as the Star Mentor of Strive and Rise for a second year.
“Cathay’s I Can Fly programme is a meaningful initiative that not only broadens the participants’ horizons, but also ignites their courage to pursue their aviation dreams,” Mr Liu said. “This weekend’s Aviation Explorer Days give participants a glimpse into behind-the-scenes aviation operations and the possibilities ahead.”
Hwang said the programme would help cultivate future talent for the aviation sector.
“We sincerely hope that their experiences will further ignite their passion for aviation, motivate them to consider pursuing a career in this exciting and dynamic industry, and inspire them to create positive change in society,” she said.
Participants in the Explorer Days visited Cathay City, Cathay Cargo Terminal, Cathay Dining and Cathay Academy, and attended talks about the industry’s history and job pathways.
The Education pillar will include the I Can Fly Youth Academy, a five-month aviation training course, while the Discovery pillar will culminate with the I Can Fly Discovery Flight later in the year.
Cathay said the programme supports its wider commitment to youth development and the advancement of Hong Kong as an international aviation hub. Since its launch, over 4,400 students have graduated from I Can Fly, with several alumni now working in the industry.
