Pilot Pathway Programs - Spirit Wings & Spirit Direct
Spirit Airlines invites aspiring pilots to join its prestigious Spirit Wings & Spirit Direct Pilot Pathway programs. These initiatives offer enrolled pilots from select flight school or university partners a clear and direct path to the flight deck as a First Officer with Spirit Airlines. The company fosters a culture that encourages bold thinking, action, connection, and enjoyment, extending from ground operations to the cockpit. Spirit is dedicated to redefining travel and empowers its team members to grow both personally and professionally.
Program Benefits
While participating in the program, cadets receive substantial support and resources:
- Mentorship: Guidance and training opportunities provided by members of the Flight Operations team throughout their time in the program.
- Electronic Flight Bag (EFB): Cadets are issued a full Spirit EFB, granting early access to training materials essential for preparing for new hire training on the Airbus A320 series aircraft.
- Subscription Access: Spirit provides Foreflight & Jeppesen Pro subscriptions.
- Engagement Events: Cadets are invited to annual "Spirit Day" events, featuring presentations, training opportunities, and direct interaction with Flight Operations leadership.
Qualifications
Candidates must meet specific requirements based on their chosen pathway:
Part 61 & 141 Flight School Requirements:
- Minimum of 500 hours total flight time.
- Possession of a Commercial Pilot Certificate.
- Recommendation from partner school faculty or chief instructor.
- Current FAA First Class Medical Certificate.
- Possession of an FCC Radio Telephone Operator Permit.
- Valid passport/travel documents with at least nine (9) months of remaining validity, permitting travel into and out of the USA and all current and future Spirit Airlines destinations.
- Legal authorization to work in the United States.
University Requirements:
- Successful completion of the sophomore year in an accredited aviation degree program.
- Recommendation from partner school faculty or chief instructor.
- Current FAA First Class Medical Certificate or the ability to obtain one before commencing ATP/CTP and Jet Transition courses.
- Possession of an FCC Radio Telephone Operator Permit.
- Valid passport/travel documents with at least nine (9) months of remaining validity, permitting travel into and out of the USA and all current and future Spirit Airlines destinations.
- Legal authorization to work in the United States.
Selected candidates are required to successfully complete all program milestones and satisfy the FAA requirements for an Unrestricted ATP or Restricted ATP (if applicable to the university program) before undergoing a final program review. All cadets must attend ATP/CTP training and a Spirit-specific A320 Jet Transition course prior to receiving a new hire class assignment. Upon availability of a new hire class date, cadets will undergo pre-employment testing and background checks before officially joining Spirit Airlines as new hire pilots.
First Officer Responsibilities
Upon transitioning to the role of a First Officer, the individual will be responsible for:
- Ensuring a safe and pleasant experience for all passengers.
- Assisting the Captain in the safe operation of the aircraft in full compliance with all Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) and established company policies and procedures.
- Demonstrating a commitment to exceptional customer service and contributing a dynamic perspective to the airline industry.
- Performing other duties as assigned, with responsibilities subject to change based on operational necessity or technical developments.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Spirit Airlines is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.