Hong Kong youngsters Graduate Cathay Pacific’s ‘I Can Fly’ programme

Earlier this month, one thousand Hong Kong teenagers formed an impressive sight as they gathered for the graduation ceremony of the 2007-2008 Cathay Pacific “I Can Fly” Programme. All the members of the programme were clad in special “I Can Fly” T-shirts for the event, held at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University campus in Hunghom.

“I Can Fly” was set up by Cathay Pacific in 2003 to help young Hong Kong people learn more about aviation and, at the same time, develop a spirit of community involvement. For the past four months, the 1,000 members of the 2007-2008 “I Can Fly” have been tutored about all aspects of aviation, under the guidance of Cathay Pacific pilots, and also helped the community through self-designed social service activities.

“When we set up ‘I Can Fly’ our aim was to help young people become more aware of their roles and responsibilities within society and at the same time help them reach for their dreams. A total of 3,000 members have graduated so far and many have continued their involvement in community services. And I’m delighted to say that quite a number of former members are also beginning new careers in the aviation industry,” Cathay Pacific's Chief Executive, Tony Tyler said.

Guest of honour, Norman Lo, Director-General of the Civil Aviation Department said that “I Can Fly” has a useful role to play at a time when knowledge is more important than ever. “The younger generation needs to grab as many learning experiences as they can. This programme has not only provided an opportunity for local youngsters to learn about different aspects of aviation, but also creates a new platform for them to serve the community in a proactive manner. These experiences are invaluable to our next generation because they will help them to prepare for future challenges,” said Mr Lo.

A major highlight of the event was the naming of the 100 top performing members, who will enjoy unique reward trips to either Flight Training Adelaide in Australia, where Cathay Pacific’s cadet pilots go through training, or the aviation facilities in Tokyo, Japan.

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