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Singapore Airlines vs Cathay Pacific
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Singapore Airlines (SQ) and Cathay Pacific (CX) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Singapore Airlines
Cathay Pacific
Country
Singapore
Hong Kong
Airline Type
Premium International Airline
Major International Airline
IATA Code
SQ
CX
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
S$100,000 - S$170,000
HK$500,000 - HK$900,000
Captain Salary
S$250,000 - S$400,000
HK$1,200,000 - HK$2,000,000
Fleet
Boeing 737/777/787, Airbus A350/380
Airbus A321/330/350, Boeing 777
Requirements Comparison
Singapore Airlines
- ICAO ATPL
- Minimum 2,500 hours on jets
- Current type rating on wide-body
- Class 1 medical
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
Singapore Airlines
Pros
- +Industry-leading captain pay
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
- +Premium global reputation
Cons
- –Type rating required before application
Cathay Pacific
Pros
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cons
- –High cost of living in Hong Kong
About Each Airline
Singapore Airlines
Consistently rated the world's best airline, Singapore Airlines offers premium compensation and the chance to fly the world's most modern fleet.
Full Singapore Airlines 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 Singapore Airlines or Cathay Pacific based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
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