Alaska Airlines | Pilot

Program Overview

Horizon Air, in partnership with Alaska Airlines, proudly presents the Ascend Pilot Academy (APA), a premier pilot development program designed to cultivate the next generation of airline pilots. This comprehensive program offers an unparalleled pathway for aspiring aviators, including those new to flight training, to achieve their dreams of becoming a First Officer with Horizon Air, with a direct career progression opportunity to Alaska Airlines.

The Ascend Pilot Academy meticulously guides cadets through their flight training journey at the esteemed Hillsboro Aero Academy (HAA). While cadets are responsible for self-funding their Private Pilot License (PPL) and have the flexibility to complete this initial training at HAA or a flight school of their choice, the APA program provides substantial financial and structured support for subsequent ratings.

Significant financial assistance is a cornerstone of the APA. Upon successful completion of the PPL evaluation, cadets gain access to secured loan opportunities for essential advanced ratings, including Instrument Rating, Commercial License, Multi-Engine Rating, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). Furthermore, Horizon Air commits a generous fund of $27,000 towards each cadet's Commercial Single-Engine License. To further support career development, Hillsboro Aero Academy provides additional funding for cadets to achieve their Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII) qualification.

Upon successful program completion and meeting Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) minimums, cadets will sign an agreement to serve Horizon Air for a minimum of three years. This commitment solidifies a secure career foundation, offering a clear trajectory. Following employment with Horizon Air, First Officers are then eligible to apply to the exclusive Pathways program, opening the door to a First Officer position at Alaska Airlines.

Key Responsibilities of Ascend Pilot Academy Cadets

Accepted cadets within the Ascend Pilot Academy are expected to demonstrate commitment and diligence throughout their training and subsequent employment. Key responsibilities include:

• Diligently pursuing and obtaining all remaining required licenses and ratings at Hillsboro Aero Academy (HAA).
• Maintaining exemplary academic and professional standing with Hillsboro Aero Academy (HAA).
• Engaging in regular and consistent communication with Horizon Air regarding curriculum progress and training milestones.
• Actively participating in all program-specific meetings as scheduled.
• Fulfilling the post-program commitment to Horizon Air for a minimum of three years following the achievement of ATP minimums, as formalized by a signed agreement.

Candidate Profile & Qualifications

Prospective candidates for the Ascend Pilot Academy must demonstrate dedication, aptitude, and meet the following stringent requirements:

• Possession of the financial capacity to self-fund Private Pilot License (PPL) training.
• Ability to secure and maintain a valid passport, permitting unrestricted travel to and from the U.S. without requiring a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP).
• Maintenance of a valid driver's license.
• Holding a current First Class Medical certificate.
• Flexibility to accommodate a variety of schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays, reflecting the demands of the aviation industry.
• Proficient communication skills in English.
• Minimal prior flight training experience, with experience not exceeding a Private Pilot's License. This program is specifically designed for aspiring pilots at the beginning of their aviation journey.
• A high school diploma or equivalent educational qualification.
• A minimum age of 18 years at the time of application.
• Authorization to work legally in the U.S.

Program Entry Requirements: Release of Records

Entry into the Ascend Pilot Academy is contingent upon the candidate's agreement to a full release of records, granting Horizon Air and Alaska Airlines comprehensive access to:

• Training Records
• Disciplinary Records
• Attendance Records
• Any other records deemed necessary and relevant to the administration and success of the APA program.

Company Culture & Values

As part of the Horizon Air and Alaska Airlines family, program participants are expected to embody core company values: a steadfast commitment to safety, unwavering integrity, fostering a caring and kind environment, and consistently delivering high-performance results.

Compensation & Benefits

Horizon Air offers a competitive total rewards package designed to support the well-being and career growth of its employees. Compensation for this role is determined by the collective bargaining agreement. Benefits include:

• Exceptional stand-by travel privileges on Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air. (Note: A flight processing fee may apply based on the hiring company and airline booked.)
• A comprehensive suite of well-being programs, encompassing medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• A generous 401k contribution and match program.
• Opportunities for quarterly and annual bonus plans.
• Generous holiday and paid time off allowances.

For more detailed information regarding Alaska, Hawaiian, and Horizon Total Rewards, interested candidates are encouraged to visit the respective career sites.

Application Details & Regulatory Information

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy Statement: Horizon Air and Alaska Airlines are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity. The companies adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected categories. An EEO Compliance Program is established under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Vietnam Era Veteran’s Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974.

Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations: As a DOT-regulated employer (49 CFR part 40), post-offer and/or pre-employment drug testing is required for all safety-sensitive positions. This testing screens for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, phencyclidine (PCP), and amphetamines. Failure to comply or a positive test result will render an applicant ineligible for employment and lead to the withdrawal of any employment offer.