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Qantas Airways vs Cathay Pacific
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Qantas Airways (QF) and Cathay Pacific (CX) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Qantas Airways
Cathay Pacific
Country
Australia
Hong Kong
Airline Type
Major Airline
Major International Airline
IATA Code
QF
CX
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
A$100,000 - A$180,000
HK$500,000 - HK$900,000
Captain Salary
A$220,000 - A$380,000
HK$1,200,000 - HK$2,000,000
Fleet
Boeing 737/787, Airbus A330/380
Airbus A321/330/350, Boeing 777
Requirements Comparison
Qantas Airways
- CASA ATPL
- 2,500+ hours total
- 500+ hours on type
- Class 1 medical
- Australian work rights
Cathay Pacific
- ICAO ATPL
- 2,500+ hours total
- 1,500+ on multi-crew jets
- Class 1 medical
- Hong Kong resident or willing to relocate
Pros & Cons
Qantas Airways
Pros
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cathay Pacific
Pros
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cons
- –High cost of living in Hong Kong
About Each Airline
Qantas Airways
Australia's flag carrier and one of the world's safest airlines, offering premium routes across the Asia-Pacific and beyond.
Full Qantas Airways career guide →Cathay Pacific
Hong Kong's flagship carrier offers tax-efficient compensation and access to one of Asia's premium aviation networks.
Full Cathay Pacific career guide →Calculate Your Salary
Model your earning potential at Qantas Airways or Cathay Pacific based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
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