Open House Highlights Pilot Pathways to American Airlines

ATP Flight School and American Airlines welcomed nearly 250 students and aspiring pilots to Concord Regional Airport in Charlotte, North Carolina, on September 24. The open house event showcased the partnership between ATP and American Airlines through the American Airlines Cadet Academy.

Held at ATP’s Charlotte training center, the event brought together current students, prospective cadets, alumni, and airline recruiters. Attendees toured a PSA Airlines CRJ-900 regional jet and spoke with representatives from American Airlines, American Airlines Federal Credit Union, and regional carriers Envoy Air, Piedmont Airlines, and PSA Airlines.

ATP Vice President of Training Support Mike Wisniewski and American Airlines Vice President of Flight Operations Captain Alan Johnson addressed attendees, discussing pilot demand and the pathway from training to airline careers. Additional speakers from ATP and American Airlines highlighted training programs, hiring processes, and opportunities to advance from regional airlines to mainline operations.

A career expo also took place, allowing ATP students to meet airline recruiters and mentors from American’s wholly owned regional airlines.

Ashley Pillon, Director of Airline and Corporate Partnerships at ATP Flight School, said: “The strength of ATP’s airline hiring partnerships was on full display. ATP excels in providing graduates with a structured career path backed by the major airlines. The American Airlines cadets are joining 2,700 students nationwide training in ATP’s Airline Career Pilot Program — all on the most efficient path toward a successful airline pilot career.”

The event emphasized career opportunities available to cadets and the ongoing collaboration between ATP and American Airlines to support pilot development.