The couple that flies together stays together

As Cathay Pacific commemorates its 80th anniversary, cabin crew members Andy Ng and Kailin Zhu reflect on how the airline's adventurous spirit has enriched not only their careers but also their personal lives together. The veteran flight attendants have found themselves drawn to the airline's spirit of exploration, beginning with Ng's impromptu birthday trip to Taipei to surprise his girlfriend in 2012. This gesture sparked a lifelong partnership, leading to their marriage four years later.

Despite demanding flight schedules, Ng and Zhu make an effort to travel together whenever their work permits. They particularly enjoy exploring new destinations, including Hong Kong, which has become a second home for Ng, born in Hong Kong and raised in Singapore. Zhu, who was unfamiliar with the city when she started working for Cathay Pacific in 2013, has since explored it extensively, even visiting places significant to Ng's childhood.

The couple attributes their strong bond to the shared experiences of working for the airline, which has provided them with a sense of camaraderie and support. Ng, now an inflight service manager, mentors younger crew members and serves as a source of reassurance for colleagues. Zhu, a senior purser, finds the human connection with passengers to be the most rewarding aspect of her job, recalling instances where her kindness touched their lives.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when flights were grounded, the couple's sense of community within Cathay Pacific proved invaluable. They remained connected virtually and felt supported by the airline, which helped them navigate the challenging period together. Moving forward, both Ng and Zhu see Cathay Pacific as an integral part of their lives, anticipating continued growth and shared milestones in the years to come.