Ascend Pilot Academy Cadet

Company: Alaska Airlines / Horizon Air

Location: Seattle, WA / Redmond, OR

Job Type: Full-Time, Regular

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Application Deadline: 4/7/2026 at 7:00 PM Pacific Time

Program Overview

The Ascend Pilot Academy (APA) is a comprehensive pilot development program designed to support aspiring aviators at the beginning of their flight training journey. This program offers a structured pathway to becoming a pilot with Horizon Air. Cadets conduct their primary flight training at Hillsboro Aero Academy (HAA). Upon successful completion of the Private Pilot License (PPL) evaluation, cadets become eligible for secured loan opportunities to fund advanced ratings, including Instrument, Commercial, Multi-Engine, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). Additionally, the program includes $27,000 in funding from Horizon Air for the Commercial Single-Engine License and further funding from HAA to obtain a Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII) rating. Upon reaching ATP minimums, graduates commit to a minimum of three years of service with Horizon Air, with subsequent opportunities to apply for the Pathways program for First Officer positions at Alaska Airlines.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Obtain all required licenses and ratings through Hillsboro Aero Academy (HAA).
Maintain good standing with HAA throughout the program.
Provide consistent communication to Horizon Air regarding academic and training progress.
Attend all mandatory program-specific meetings.
Execute a formal agreement to serve as a pilot for Horizon Air for three years post-graduation.
Authorize the release of training, disciplinary, and attendance records to Horizon Air and Alaska Airlines.

Candidate Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Little to no flight experience (must not exceed a Private Pilot License).
Ability to self-fund Private Pilot License (PPL) training.
Must hold a First Class Medical certificate.
Possess a valid driver’s license.
Must hold a valid passport allowing unrestricted travel to and from the U.S. without a temporary resident permit (TRP).
Legal authorization to work in the United States.
Proficiency in English communication.
Flexibility to work varied schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Commitment to embodying corporate values: safety, integrity, care, kindness, and performance.

Total Rewards and Benefits

Compensation per collective bargaining agreement.
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.
Generous 401k contribution and match program.
Quarterly and annual bonus eligibility.
Paid time off and holiday benefits.
Flight privileges on Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air.

Regulatory Information

This position is subject to Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations (49 CFR part 40). All applicants are subject to pre-employment drug screening for controlled substances. Alaska Airlines and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers and maintain a policy of nondiscrimination regarding race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected category.