Alaska Airlines | Pilot

Program Overview: Ascend Pilot Academy

The Ascend Pilot Academy (APA) is a structured pilot development program designed to support aspiring aviators, from those just beginning their journey to those with limited flight training experience. The program provides a clear pathway to a professional piloting career with Horizon Air.

Cadets complete their flight training through Hillsboro Aero Academy (HAA). While cadets are responsible for self-funding their Private Pilot License (PPL), the program offers secured loan opportunities for subsequent training, including instrument ratings, commercial licenses, multi-engine ratings, and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certifications. Furthermore, Horizon Air provides $27,000 in funding for students to obtain their Commercial Single-Engine License, while HAA provides funding for students to earn their Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII) certification.

Upon successfully passing the PPL evaluation, cadets sign an agreement to fly for Horizon Air for a minimum of three years after reaching ATP minimums. Eligible pilots may subsequently apply to the Pathways program for a First Officer position at Alaska Airlines.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete all remaining licenses and ratings through HAA.
• Maintain good standing with HAA throughout the duration of the program.
• Engage in regular and consistent communication with Horizon Air regarding curriculum progress.
• Attend all mandatory program-specific meetings.
• Fulfill the contractual commitment to work for Horizon Air for three years post-program completion.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Hold a High School diploma or equivalent.
• Possess little to no flight training experience (not exceeding a Private Pilot License).
• Ability to self-fund Private Pilot License training.
• Hold a First Class Medical certificate.
• Maintain a valid driver's license.
• Possess a valid passport allowing unrestricted travel to and from the U.S. without a temporary resident permit.
• Possess legal authorization to work in the U.S.
• Strong English language communication skills.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Consent to a full release of training, disciplinary, attendance, and other relevant records to Horizon Air and Alaska Airlines.

Leadership Expectations

The successful candidate will embody company values: owning safety, doing the right thing, being caring and kind, and delivering high performance.

Total Rewards and Benefits

• Competitive pay in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement.
• Comprehensive well-being programs, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous 401(k) contribution and matching program.
• Quarterly and annual bonus plans.
• Generous holiday and paid time off packages.
• Stand-by travel privileges on Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air.

Administrative Information

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Employment Type: Full-Time
Location: Seattle, WA / Redmond, OR
Application Deadline: 4/7/2026, 7:00 PM Pacific Time

Equal Employment Opportunity and Regulatory Compliance

Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air are equal opportunity employers. All employment decisions are based on merit and job requirements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected category.

As these roles are regulated by the Department of Transportation (49 CFR part 40), all applicants are subject to pre-employment and post-offer drug testing for substances including marijuana, cocaine, opioids, phencyclidine (PCP), and amphetamines. A positive test result or failure to submit to testing will result in the withdrawal of any offer of employment.