National Cadet Pilot Programme
Job Purpose
Emirates offers a unique opportunity to aspiring Emirati pilots to become among the world's best trained aviators and proudly fly the national flag to over 140 global destinations. The National Cadet Pilot Programme seeks young and ambitious Emiratis possessing the passion and commitment required to train as world-class pilots at the state-of-the-art Emirates Flight Training Academy in Dubai.
Programme Sponsorship and Benefits
This fully sponsored programme provides comprehensive coverage for training costs over a period of at least four years. This includes all training materials, accommodation, uniforms, and three daily meals. The programme guides cadets from zero flying hours through rigorous ground school and extensive flight training on multi-engine, multi-crew aircraft. Upon graduation, cadets are qualified to join Emirates, the world's largest international airline, taking command of one of the youngest and most modern fleets in the sky.
Selection Process
Candidates who meet the selection criteria will be invited to participate in a multi-stage assessment process.
- **Stage 1:** Includes Maths and Physics assessments, followed by medical pre-screening at the EK Clinic.
- **Stage 2:** Consists of a Compass test, Aviation English test, and Psychometrics tests, including Abstract Reasoning and Spatial Reasoning.
- **Stage 3:** Concludes with a panel interview and the required GCAA Medical examination.
Programme Structure and Progression
The National Cadet Programme is divided into distinct phases, progressing from initial training to operational flying:
Ab-initio Pilot Phase 1 – Ground School
Approximately 12 months at Emirates Flight Training Academy
- Focuses on ATPL theoretical knowledge using state-of-the-art technology and VR.
- Duration: Approximately 12 months.
- Pay and benefits: Stipend of AED 6,240 per month, along with concessional staff travel tickets, medical insurance, meals, and accommodation.
Ab-initio Pilot Phase 2 – Flight Training
Approximately 12 months at Emirates Flight Training Academy
- Provides approximately 274 hours of flight and simulator experience on aircraft such as the SR 22 Cirrus single engine, Diamond DA42 twin engine, and Phenom-100 Jet.
- Upon completion, cadets earn a Commercial Pilot Licence (Frozen ATPL) with a Multi-Instrument Rating (CPL/Multi IR), a Multi Crew Cooperation Course (MCC), and a Jet Orientation Course Certificate.
- Duration: Approximately 12 months.
- Pay and benefits: Stipend of AED 6,240 per month, along with concessional staff travel tickets, medical insurance, meals, and accommodation.
Cadet Pilot Phase 3
Approximately 3 months at Emirates Training College
- Involves Conversion, Type Rating, and Line Training on one of Emirates' widebody aircraft types.
- Duration: Approximately 3 months.
- Pay and benefits: Stipend of AED 18,335 per month, concessional staff travel tickets, medical insurance, and meals.
Cadet Pilot Phase 4
Approximately 8 months at Emirates Group Headquarters / Dubai Airport
- Cadets complete the course, receive a Type Rating on their assigned Emirates widebody aircraft, and obtain a Frozen Air Transport Pilot Licence (Frozen ATPL) approved by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority.
- Duration: Approximately 8 months.
- Pay and benefits: Stipend of AED 31,745 per month, along with concessional staff travel tickets and medical insurance.
First Officer Phase 5
Emirates Group Headquarters / Dubai Airport
- Graduates transition into the role of a line pilot, flying the modern Emirates fleet as a First Officer.
- Pay and benefits: AED 52,105 per month. (Basic pay and fixed allowances) concessional staff travel tickets & medical insurance.
Qualifications & Experience
Prospective candidates must meet specific requirements:
- **Citizenship:** Must hold a valid UAE passport and Khulasat Al Qaid.
- **National Service:** Completion of National Service is mandatory before joining the programme.
- **Physical Requirements:** A minimum height of 160 cm and medical fitness with a BMI of 29 or less are required.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility varies based on educational background:
1. High School Graduates (Scientific Stream only)
- **Age:** Must be between 18 and 21 years old.
- **Academic Requirements:** A minimum high school score of 80%. Candidates must be science graduates with their final year of education focused on chemistry, physics, or mathematics. Official transcripts and High School certificates will be assessed.
- **Language Proficiency:** An IELTS score of 6.0 is required at the time of application.
2. Degree Holders (Diploma and Above)
- **Age:** Must be between 21 and 26 years old.
- **Academic Requirements:** A minimum GPA of 3.0 in a Scientific or Engineering Major.
- **Language Proficiency:** An IELTS score of 6.0 is required at the time of application.
Application Preparation
Candidates are advised to prepare the following documents for upload prior to submitting their application, as processing cannot commence until all documents are correctly provided:
- Updated CV
- Highest Education Certificate
- Valid UAE Passport
- Emirates ID
- Khulasat Al Qaid
- National Service Completion Letter (if applicable)
- TOEFL/IELTS certificate
Applying for the National Cadet Pilot Programme presents an exceptional opportunity to join an elite initiative dedicated to shaping future leaders in aviation. Supported by rigorous training and guidance from industry experts, cadets are positioned on a fast track to fulfilling their aspirations of becoming a pilot.