Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is delighted to announce the opening of applications for its prestigious UAE National Cadet Pilot Programme. This exceptional opportunity invites aspiring aviators to embark on a fulfilling career path within a world-leading airline, contributing to its dynamic growth and transformation. Etihad is committed to fueling ambition and unlocking countless opportunities for professional development and success, offering a unique chance to become part of its next generation of pilots, flying an expanding fleet of modern aircraft across the globe.
Individuals who have always dreamt of a career as a pilot are encouraged to apply. Successful candidates will work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry, benefiting from world-class training designed to develop the personal and professional capabilities required to achieve their full potential and commence a successful flying career with Etihad Airways.
About the Programme
The UAE National Cadet Pilot Programme is designed to transform passionate individuals into highly skilled professional pilots. Successful candidates will undertake a rigorous and structured two-year training curriculum, encompassing essential flight qualifications, intensive ground school instruction both within the UAE and internationally, state-of-the-art flight simulations, and practical flying training.
Upholding its unwavering 'Safety First, Always' principle and perfect record in safe flight operations, Etihad ensures that adherence to stringent safety protocols, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and regulatory requirements forms a core component of all training. Throughout this journey, cadets will benefit from invaluable mentorship and support provided by highly experienced instructor pilots, fostering both personal and professional capabilities essential for a successful flying career.
Compensation and Career Progression
Etihad Airways offers a competitive remuneration package designed to support cadets throughout their training and into their flying careers:
- Training Phase (First Two Years): A monthly salary of AED 5,000.
- Post-License Skill Test (LST): Upon successful completion of the License Skill Test, the monthly salary increases to AED 16,667, supplemented by variable allowances, for a period of six months.
- Post-Line Training Under Supervision (LFUS): Following the completion of line training under supervision, the monthly salary further increases to AED 24,000, plus variable allowances. This includes step increments over four years, capped at AED 34,000 per month.
- Senior First Officer (SFO) Promotion: Upon accumulating the requisite flying hours and obtaining the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), successful cadets will be promoted to Senior First Officer, earning a monthly salary of AED 39,853.
Candidate Requirements
Etihad Airways seeks highly motivated and dedicated individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: UAE National.
- Age: Between 18 and 29 years old.
- Height: A minimum height of 160cm.
- Education:
- High school diploma with an overall minimum grade of 80%, including passing grades in Mathematics and Physics, OR
- Higher education qualification (e.g., Bachelor’s or Master’s degree).
- English Proficiency:
- Minimum IELTS score of 5.5, OR
- Minimum EmSAT English score of 1250.
- National Service (Males Only): Completed or possess a permanent exemption from UAE National Service at the time of application.
- Aptitude: Demonstrable passion for aviation, commitment to continuous learning and development, and a strong command of written and spoken English.
Application Process
To ensure a comprehensive evaluation, applicants are required to upload the following documents. Applications that do not include all specified documents will not be considered:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- High school certificate demonstrating passing grades in Mathematics and Physics, or higher education certification (e.g., Bachelor’s or Master’s degree).
- English proficiency document (IELTS or EmSAT certificate).
- National Service Completion Certification (for male applicants).
About Etihad Airways
Established in 2003, Etihad Airways has rapidly ascended to become one of the world's premier airlines and the proud national carrier of the UAE. Operating from its hub in Abu Dhabi, Etihad provides extensive passenger and cargo services to destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. Through strategic codeshare partnerships, Etihad’s network extends access to hundreds of international locations.
The airline has consistently garnered numerous accolades for its superior service, innovative products, cargo capabilities, and loyalty programs. This commitment to excellence underpins Etihad’s ambitious Journey 2030 strategy, which aims to double its fleet size and triple its customer base over the next six years, solidifying its position as the airline everyone desires to fly.