HKIAA and CAFUC Deepen Cooperation for Cadet Pilot Programme

(Hong Kong, 30 May 2025, 1600hrs) – Hong Kong International Aviation Academy (HKIAA) and Civil Aviation Flight University of China (CAFUC) entered into a framework agreement in Beijing on 26 May 2025. The cooperation provides an additional pathway for the students of HKIAA’s Cadet Pilot Programme to attain their flying training, injecting momentum to the development of the aviation sector in Hong Kong.

Witnessed by Han Jun, Deputy Administrator of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and Victor Liu, Director-General of Civil Aviation Department (CAD) of Hong Kong, the agreement was signed by Simon Li, President of HKIAA and Guan Lixin, President of CAFUC.

The framework agreement aims to promote the deep integration of the aviation sectors in Hong Kong and Mainland China, addressing the future demand for aviation talents. This marks the first agreement signed between HKIAA and a civil aviation higher-education institution under the direct jurisdiction of the CAAC. CAFUC’s full-time programmes include higher education for civil aviation pilots, as well as technicians and professionals in the areas of aviation engineering, air traffic control, air transport management, among others.

Upon signing of the framework agreement, HKIAA and CAFUC are both approved by CAD under CAD 509 (A) as Flying Training Organisations. The two organisations will leverage their respective expertise and resources to establish a mutually beneficial cooperation relationship, including the future mutual recognition of professional pilot’s licences between Hong Kong and Mainland China.

HKIAA President Simon Li said, “We are delighted to strengthen the partnership with CAFUC to foster cooperation in cadet pilot training. As emphasised in the ‘14th Five-Year Plan for Civil Aviation Development’, cultivating a professional talent team is the core demand of industry development. The agreement signed is a positive response to this mission.”

HKIAA’s Cadet Pilot Programme was launched in 2023, with flying training currently carried out at IASCO Flight Training in the United States. The cooperation with CAFUC shall offer an additional option for students to receive their flying training.