Aer Lingus Future Pilot Programme
Aer Lingus is offering a unique career opportunity through its Future Pilot Programme, a comprehensive course combining classroom instruction and practical flight training in both aircraft and flight simulators. Throughout this intensive 14-month program, successful candidates will receive regular mentorship and guidance from the Aer Lingus Cadet Liaison Pilot. This collaboration with a preferred flight training school leads to a long-term career as a pilot with Aer Lingus, with the potential to become a Captain on both short and long-haul routes.
This highly competitive program seeks talented, motivated, and engaged individuals with a passion for aviation and the Aer Lingus brand. Ideal candidates are technically minded, mature, responsible, and committed to success. They should possess excellent communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, and an understanding of customer service excellence. Aer Lingus seeks candidates who thrive in a fast-paced, technically challenging, and dynamic environment while prioritizing safety and exceptional customer service.
Upon qualification, pilots will receive a Multi Pilot Commercial Licence. Aer Lingus has a long and proud tradition in pilot training and is looking for candidates with diverse backgrounds. Whether you are a recent school/college graduate or seeking a career change, this program presents an ideal pathway into the aviation industry.
Essential Criteria
To be considered for the 2025 program, applicants must meet the following essential criteria: be at least 18 years of age by February 10th, 2025; be fluent in written and spoken English; be eligible to live and work permanently in the EU/Ireland; possess a valid unrestricted worldwide passport; be able to pass airport security vetting, including a five-year background check; provide two verifiable references; and be able to obtain an EASA/IAA issued Class 1 Medical, including passing a colour blindness test. Non-Irish citizens may require a police disclosure certificate. Those residing outside the Republic of Ireland for six months or more may also require a police disclosure certificate from those countries.
Educational Requirements
Educational requirements include a completed Leaving Certificate (6 subjects) or equivalent, with minimum grades of O5 in English and Mathematics or H6 at higher level; two higher level subjects with minimum H5 grades in the Leaving Certificate. Equivalent qualifications include a minimum grade C in GCSE Maths and English, and three A Levels at A2 level with minimum grades C, C, D. Candidates not meeting minimum Leaving Certificate or equivalent grades must possess a minimum Level 7 third level degree in any discipline or have completed a relevant aviation apprenticeship.
Key Competencies
The program demands key competencies including excellent interpersonal skills, flexibility, strong communication skills, technical awareness, teamwork capabilities, leadership qualities, strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, a continuous drive to achieve high performance, and the ability to process large volumes of information quickly.
Application Process
The application process involves an online application by 10:00 GMT on Monday, February 10th, 2025, followed by online assessments for successful applicants and group assessments held in Dublin between March 24th and April 11th, 2025. Candidates must provide copies of educational certificates and may be required to retake online assessments at the assessment center. The selection process includes passing a Class 1 and pre-course medical examination. Aer Lingus is an equal opportunities employer.