Cathay has completed the second edition of its Cathay Young Explorers Programme, bringing 30 students from Hong Kong on a week-long study tour across the Chinese mainland. The initiative, part of the airline’s wider youth development strategy, aims to support the next generation of aviation professionals through education and cultural exchange. The programme took place from April 5-11, 2026, covering Urumqi, Yining and Xi’an.
Expansion of the Cathay Young Explorers Programme
The Cathay Young Explorers Programme is a joint initiative between Cathay and the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation, supported by the Hong Kong SAR Government’s Education Bureau. First launched in 2025, the programme has been positioned as a flagship project under the Cathay Aviation Dream Youth Development Fund.
The 2026 edition, themed “Youth in Motion: Discovering the Silk Road”, focused on combining aviation education with cultural learning. Participants explored key locations along the Silk Road, with the Cathay Young Explorers Programme designed to broaden students’ understanding of both China’s heritage and its aviation sector.
Cathay said the programme aligns with its broader strategy to promote youth development and build interest in aviation careers. The initiative also forms part of activities marking the airline’s 80th anniversary.
Focus on aviation education and cultural exchange
During the Cathay Young Explorers Programme, students visited the Xinjiang Airport Group Control Centre in Urumqi to learn about aviation operations and regional connectivity. The itinerary also included visits to cultural and natural sites such as Sayram Lake, Kuerdening Scenic Area, and local districts in Yining.
While presented as part of a cultural exchange, Xinjiang is also home to the Uyghurs and has been the subject of international scrutiny over restrictions on cultural and religious expression, being an aspect not typically reflected in curated study tours.
In Xi’an, participants visited major historical and educational institutions, including the Museum of the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Shaanxi History Museum, and Northwestern Polytechnical University. These visits were intended to provide insight into both China’s history and developments in aerospace.
Chan, a student representative, said:
“From ancient dreams of flight to today’s aviation advancements of our nation, I have developed a deeper appreciation for discovery and exploration. I will carry these experiences forward in my studies and hope to contribute to the development of our nation’s aviation industry in the future.”
Overall, the programme reflects Cathay’s goal to cultivate future aviation talent through curated educational experiences, while also reflecting the broader narratives shaping how such exchanges are presented. As it expands, how it balances industry exposure with a fuller cultural context will remain an important consideration.
What are your impressions of Cathay’s 2026 Silk Road Young Explorers Programme? Let us know in the comments!
