In response to a projected pilot shortage in the future, airlines are providing opportunities to prospective pilots. Thanks to changes and improvements to existing programs, more people are realizing their dream of becoming an airline pilot.

Alaska

Earlier this year, Alaska Airlines announced it is partnering with Horizon Air and teaming up with Hillsboro Aero Academy, (a pacific Northwest flight school) to launch the Ascend Pilot Academy (APA). The program hopes to train up to 250 students a year. Financial aid, guidance, and conditional job offers will be available to students. You can learn more about the program and requirements at Alaska air.com/pilot_training

Delta

Delta Air Lines is offering an alternate career path and an accelerated timeline to become a Delta pilot. A four-year college degree is now preferred rather than required for first officer candidates. Now, life and leadership experience are taken into consideration as part of the training program criteria. 

Learn more about Delta’s Propel pilot career path program at Delta Propel

United

January of this year, United Airlines became the first U.S. carrier to own a flight training school in Goodyear, Ariz. The United Aviate Academy is part of United’s long-term answer to the pilot shortage. The company hopes to work toward its goal of training 5,000 pilots at the school by 2030. United pilot career and programs can be found at https://unitedaviate.com/