Computer-Based Aptitude Tests (Aon / Cut-E)

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Common mistake: preparing only the monitoring (moving dots) test. Recent Cathay cadet cycles report multiple modules in one proctored session (often via Microsoft Teams with camera on).

Official vs candidate-reported format

Source What it says
Cathay careers — cadet Computer-based assessment is part of selection; details when shortlisted
Candidate reports (2024–2026) Six Aon/Cut-E-style modules + work-related behaviour questionnaire

Older materials reference COMPASS, reasoning, and job-knowledge tests. Treat these as cycle-dependent; prepare aptitude breadth, not one drill only.

Module overview (prepare all)

# Module (reported name) Skill tested Prep focus
1 Monitoring ability Count moving dots; speed + accuracy Soft focus, peripheral vision
2 Spatial orientation Cut-E relative bearing indicator (RBI) Practice RBI / spatial apps
3 Complex control “Missile game” style tracking Search “Cut-E complex control” / pilot aptitude sites
4 Applied numeracy Basic math under time pressure Numeracy worksheet — timed sets
5 Multi-tasking Cut-E triangle task Dual-task practice platforms
6 Reaction speed Cut-E reaction rate Mouse hardware; rest before test
7 Work-related behaviour Personality / integrity style Answer honestly; do not game

1. Monitoring ability (moving dots)

Task: Identify the number of objects moving on screen. Adaptive difficulty (more objects, faster movement).

Tip Detail
Duration Often 2–4 minutes total
Scoring Speed and accuracy; wrong answers may be penalised
Soft focus Fix eyes near centre; use peripheral vision to estimate “mass” of dots
Count vs estimate Under ~10, count; above ~10, best estimate — avoid wild guesses
Hardware Mouse, stable internet, quiet room

Practice: Sky Dream — Cut-E monitoring · Pilotest Cut-E prep · YouTube — Cut-E tips

2. Spatial orientation (RBI)

Task: Relative bearing / orientation items typical of Cut-E pilot batteries.

Tip Detail
Concept Visualise aircraft heading vs beacon or target bearing
Practice Cut-E RBI modules on Pilotest or equivalent

3. Complex control

Task: Candidates report a missile-game style test (track / steer toward targets).

Tip Detail
Prep Familiarise with interface on aptitude prep sites; practice smooth mouse control
Mindset Calm hands; prioritise stable tracking over jerky corrections

4. Applied numeracy

Task: Elementary mathematics under time pressure.

Topic Example drill
Speed–distance–time If GS 120 kt for 45 min, distance?
Percentages Fuel remaining as % of tank
Unit care Read question units before calculating

Practice: Mental math daily (10 min) without calculator.

5. Multi-tasking (triangle)

Task: Cut-E triangle / dual-task style items.

Tip Detail
Strategy Scan pattern; don’t fixate on one sub-task
Practice Cut-E multitasking modules on prep platforms

6. Reaction speed

Task: Rapid response to on-screen cues.

Tip Detail
Rest Sleep and hydration affect scores
Hardware Low-latency mouse; full screen; close other apps

Task: Situational / personality-style questions (often cannot be “trained” dishonestly).

Tip Detail
Honesty Inconsistent answers flag integrity issues
Pace Read each question; avoid extreme answers unless true to you
Alignment Think safety, procedure, teamwork — airline culture

Test day checklist

References

Navigation: Interview hub ICAO English HR & behavioural

IMPORTANT: Always verify with current official publications.

prepared by Raptor K, a guy learning to fly (feel free to contact me via IG: @raptorkwok or Email)