Hong Kong Future Pilot Program 2023

On Monday 17 July, the Flying Operations Unit (FOU) welcomed 20 high school students from selected Hong Kong Direct Subsidy Scheme Schools (DSS) for the 2-week Hong Kong Future Pilot Program. After a pause caused by international travel restrictions, FOU staff were very excited to see the eager students begin their flying career at UNSW Sydney.

During the program, the students undertake four hours of visual flying training in our Diamond DA40 aeroplanes, simulator training in instrument flying procedures, and exposure to multi-crew operations in our Projet Series 4.5 FSTD with our experienced team of multi-crew instructors.

The students will spend their time when not flying in the classroom learning about aerodynamics and aeroplane systems, as well as navigation and flight planning in preparation for their flight to Temora, NSW, to visit the Aviation Museum – a highlight of the program.

Fostered by longstanding collaboration between UNSW and DSS, in particular Mr Dion Chen, Principal of Ying Wa College, the program has introduced more than 100 students to the world of aviation – many of these students have progressed to airline careers and I am pleased to offer the 2023 cohort the same opportunity.