New Programme Offers Free Pilot Training

Jet2.com has formed a new initiative with three ATOs to remove the financial barriers to pilot training, offering aspiring aviators a direct route to the flight deck. Applications are now open and will remain live for up to three weeks.

The multi-million-pound programme named ‘Jet2FlightPath’ will see successful candidates undergo an 18-month sponsored pilot training package with Skyborne, Leading Edge Aviation, or FTEJerez. Upon completion, graduates will hold a UK CAA Integrated Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and be offered Type Rating training on an Airbus or Boeing aircraft before beginning their careers as Second Officers.

Jet2.com plans to put 60 pilots through Jet2FlightPath in the first year of the programme and then expand it to attract even more aspiring pilots in the coming years as the company continues to grow.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays said: “We know that the cost of training is an obstacle to many people who dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot, so we are very proud to announce this groundbreaking programme which will help us make that dream become a reality for many, including those who may have thought that the opportunity was beyond their means.

He adds: “By opening this incredible opportunity up to so many people from so many backgrounds, we expect the programme to be extremely popular, so we look forward to receiving applications and helping many wonderful flying careers take off.”

Successful applicants will undertake an 18-month fully funded Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) course at one of Jet2.com’s partner training locations in the UK or Spain, starting later this year. After completing their ATPL training, candidates will progress to Type Rating training on either Airbus or Boeing aircraft before joining Jet2.com’s growing team of professional pilots. A subsistence allowance will be provided by Jet2.com and Class 1 Medical costs will be covered. Trainees will also benefit from Jet2.com pilot mentors and airline immersion events.

Candidates must be aged between 18 and 55 before training begins, hold a valid passport and the unrestricted right to live and work in the UK. No previous flying experience is required.