How 2,000 Youths Are Entering Aviation

Cathay kicked off its flagship community service initiative, I Can Fly, which aims to inspire young people to pursue their dreams in aviation while contributing positively to society.

This year’s edition of I Can Fly sees a refreshed format with activities throughout 2025 centred on Education, Discovery and Exploration, in addition to incorporating social service. Across the entire I Can Fly programme, Cathay will empower some 2,000 young people between the ages of 10 and 18 to pursue their dreams.

The program included two consecutive I Can Fly Aviation Explorer Days organised with the support of the Hong Kong SAR Government’s Strive and Rise programme and a number of other community engagement partners. In total, 870 students from underprivileged backgrounds enjoyed an opportunity to explore the world of aviation across the two Aviation Explorer Days, supported by 70 volunteers from across Cathay.

Under Secretary for Transport and Logistics Liu Chun-san was welcomed as the guest of honour by Cathay Director People Patricia Hwang, who is also the Star Mentor of the Government’s Strive and Rise programme for the second consecutive year.

Under Secretary Liu said: “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. Quite a number of the locally trained pilots are also graduates of this programme, which is not just an ‘orientation course to aviation’, but also a ‘dream factory for aviation’. This weekend's Aviation Explorer Days not only give participants a chance to appreciate the external allure of flying but also delve deeper into uncovering its inner mysteries, offering a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes operations of the aviation industry, and discovering the endless possibilities in store for them.

As part of its Exploration pillar, Cathay will host I Can Fly Aviation Explorer Days throughout the year. These experiences include tours of the airport area, including Cathay City, Cathay Dining, Cathay Cargo Terminal and Cathay Academy, as well as talks about the history of the aviation industry, and career mentorship.

As part of the Aviation Explorer Days, participants had the opportunity to visit Cathay Cargo Terminal, learning about the work settings of the various job roles within the aviation industry.

In addition, the Education pillar will feature the I Can Fly Youth Academy, a five-month aviation training course, while the Discovery pillar will offer an unforgettable experience with the I Can Fly Discovery Flight towards the end of the year.

I Can Fly was first launched in 2003 and aims to empower Hong Kong’s youth by igniting their dreams and ambitions, enabling them to explore endless possibilities. Over 4,400 students have graduated from the programme since its inception, with some alumni pursuing careers in aviation.