Seven students graduated from the Latvian national airline’s airBaltic Pilot Academy, receiving a commercial pilot license upon completion of the full-time airline transport pilot program. In addition, already the 20^th group of 15 students began their professional pilot studies. Kaspars Briškens, the Transport Minister of the Republic of Latvia, complimented the event with his presence.

Martin Gauss, President and CEO of airBaltic: “We are proud of the newest graduates the Pilot Academy. A number of them will commence additional training this month, preparing to soon join the airBaltic team. Having well-trained personnel is a crucial element for the success of any airline. Additionally, we extend our congratulations to the young and motivated students of the 20^th group, who embarked on their educational journey today."

The latest graduates represent countries such as Latvia, Lithuania, Finland, and the Netherlands. The 20^th group represents Latvia, Finland, France, Switzerland, and Italy. 

There are 110 active students at the airBaltic Pilot Academy at the moment. Most of them are from Baltic countries, however, there are students also from other EU countries such as Germany, France, Finland, Spain and Italy among others. Overall, more than 10% of airBaltic Pilot Academy students are female. As for now, 95 students, after graduating, have joined airBaltic.

Since October 2023, airBaltic Pilot Academy has improved the payment structure for its commercial pilot study program. As of now, after successfully passing the company’s assessment, airBaltic will loan most of the study fee. Students of the airBaltic Pilot Academy will now have to cover the costs of ATPL theory studies and 45 flight hours, costing EUR 15 000. After passing airBaltic pilot assessment and becoming an employee of the company, the airline will provide financing (loan) for the rest of the studies.