Cathay has launched the 2025 edition of its flagship I Can Fly program, reaffirming its dedication to youth development in Hong Kong. The initiative aims to spark young people’s interest in aviation while encouraging them to make a positive impact on society. This year, the program introduces a new format with activities centered on Education, Discovery, and Exploration, combined with social service efforts.
The 2025 program began with two consecutive Aviation Explorer Days, held with the support of the Hong Kong SAR Government’s Strive and Rise program and various community partners. Over the two-day event, 870 students from underprivileged backgrounds had the opportunity to explore aviation through immersive experiences. The event was made possible by the dedication of 70 Cathay volunteers, who guided the students through a range of activities.
Under Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr. Liu Chun-san, attended as the guest of honor and was welcomed by Cathay Director People Patricia Hwang. Hwang also serves as the Star Mentor for the Strive and Rise program for the second year.
Mr. Liu commended the initiative, saying, “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.”
Expanding Learning Through Education and Discovery
Throughout the year, Cathay will host additional Aviation Explorer Days, offering students unique insights into the aviation field. These experiences will include airport tours and visits to Cathay City, Cathay Dining, Cathay Cargo Terminal, and Cathay Academy. Students will also attend talks about the history of aviation and participate in career mentorship sessions.
The Education pillar of the program will introduce the I Can Fly Youth Academy, a five-month aviation training course that provides hands-on learning. Meanwhile, the Discovery pillar will offer students an unforgettable highlight at the end of the year: the I Can Fly Discovery Flight, allowing them to experience aviation firsthand.
Shaping Future Aviation Leaders
Speaking at the launch event, Cathay’s Patricia Hwang expressed her hopes for the students’ futures. She said, “It gives me great pleasure to welcome all of our participating students to our Aviation Explorer Days as we kick off our flagship I Can Fly programme for 2025. 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.”
Hwang also emphasized Cathay’s broader role in empowering Hong Kong’s youth. “With our deep roots in Hong Kong, Cathay is committed to being a force of positivity for our community, focusing on the advancement of youth development, sports, and arts and culture to create a brighter future for all. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all of our volunteers, the Government and our partners for their invaluable support in making these fantastic occasions possible.”
Since its launch in 2003, I Can Fly has empowered over 4,400 students, many of whom have pursued careers in aviation. The program continues to offer young people in Hong Kong valuable experiences that nurture their skills and broaden their career horizons, while also contributing to the city’s reputation as a global aviation hub.
