Alaska Airlines | Pilot

Ascend Pilot Academy Program - First Officer Pathway

Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air are seeking highly motivated individuals to join the Ascend Pilot Academy, a comprehensive flight training program designed to cultivate the next generation of commercial pilots. This intensive program guides aspiring pilots with limited or no prior flying experience through rigorous training and experience-building, culminating in a First Officer position with Horizon Air.

As part of a commitment to equity, this program actively supports all aspiring pilots, including those who may require financial assistance to realize their aviation career aspirations.

Training Location: Hillsboro Aero Academy in Hillsboro & Redmond, Oregon.

Program Length: Approximately 3 to 3.5 years.

Stipends: The program offers a $27,000 stipend towards obtaining a commercial pilot certificate and up to $3,500 to cover the Certified Flight Instructor - Instrument Certificate (CFII).

Pilot Commitment: Upon successful completion of all training, certificate, and flight experience requirements, participants commit to a minimum of 3 years of service as a pilot for Horizon Air.

Pathway to Alaska Airlines: An exceptional opportunity exists to transition to Alaska Airlines as a First Officer through the Pilot Pathways program upon meeting eligibility criteria.

Ascend Pilot Academy Eligibility Requirements:

• Possession of a valid passport enabling unrestricted travel to and from the U.S.
• A valid driver’s license.
• A current First Class Medical certificate.
• The ability to work varied schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Proficiency in English communication and authorization to work within the U.S.
• Limited flight training experience, not exceeding the attainment of a Private Pilot’s License.
• Willingness to relocate to Hillsboro Aero Academy training locations in Redmond, OR, or Hillsboro, OR.

Entry into the program necessitates agreement to an ongoing release of training records, disciplinary records, attendance records, and other relevant information to Horizon Air and Alaska Airlines.

Total Rewards:

• Compensation as per the collective bargaining agreement.
• Privileges of free stand-by travel on Alaska Airlines & Horizon Air.
• Comprehensive well-being programs, encompassing medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• A generous 401k matching program.
• Eligibility for quarterly and annual bonus plans.
• Generous allocations of holiday and paid time off.

For comprehensive details regarding Alaska/Horizon Total Rewards, please visit our career site and review the benefits information.

Additional Information:

• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Employment Type: Full-Time
• Location: Seattle - Airport (Pilot & FA) & Redmond, Oregon
• Requisition Type: Career Pathways
• Category: Pilots
• Requisition ID: 2025-14173

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air are Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action (AA) employers committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disability status, genetic information (including family medical history), political views or activity, or other legally protected characteristics.

Government Contractor & Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations:

Alaska Airlines & Horizon Air are regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT – regulations, 49 CFR part 40). Post-offer and/or pre-employment drug testing will be conducted to determine the presence of marijuana, cocaine, opioids, phencyclidine (PCP), and amphetamines.