Summer Interest Doubles for Pilot Academy

As summer marks the peak period for high school graduates applying to further education, airBaltic Pilot Academy has seen a notable rise in interest. While applications are accepted throughout the year and study groups begin quarterly, this summer has brought a surge in applications—doubling compared to previous months. The Academy’s 27th group of students is scheduled to begin their European Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) program on September 3.

“Summer is a time of opportunity for those ready to take the first step towards an exceptional journey in aviation," said Vilmantas Vaclovas Mažonas, CEO of airBaltic Training. "Enrolling in professional Airline Transport Pilot License studies opens the door to future growth and the path to becoming a Captain. Although cadets apply at various stages of life, the optimal time to seize this opportunity is right after high school – when knowledge is still fresh and motivation is at its peak. The growing number of aspiring pilots plays a vital role in the airline’s future development, as highly trained personnel are one of the cornerstones of efficient airline operations.”

Currently, 161 students are enrolled at the Academy. While many are from the Baltic states, others come from countries such as Germany, France, Finland, and Denmark. Over 10% of students are women. To date, more than 130 graduates have joined airBaltic, primarily as First Officers, with some also working as instructors.

The next graduation ceremony will take place at the beginning of the new academic year and will be the Academy’s largest, with over 20 students completing the program.

airBaltic Pilot Academy students are required to pay EUR 25,000 for initial ATPL theory and flight hours. Once accepted as an employee, cadets may receive financing for the remainder of their studies through an airline-provided loan.

To support growing training needs, airBaltic has also added a second Airbus A220 full flight simulator, enhancing its capacity to train pilots on its primary aircraft type from early in their careers.