Pilot Pathway Program Participant / Future First Officer
Overview
Spirit Airlines invites aspiring pilots to join the Spirit Wings & Spirit Direct Pilot Pathway programs, offering a direct route to the flight deck as a First Officer. At Spirit, the focus is on a vibrant culture where team members are encouraged to think big, take action, make connections, and enjoy the journey. The airline is redefining travel, offering team members travel perks, personal and professional growth opportunities, and the chance to fuel the communities we serve. Joining Spirit means becoming part of a team where the sky is truly just the beginning.
Program Description
The Spirit Wings & Spirit Direct Pilot Pathway programs provide pilots enrolled at select flight school or university partnerships with a streamlined path to becoming a Spirit Airlines First Officer. While participating in the program, cadets receive invaluable support and resources designed to prepare them for a career in commercial aviation.
Program Benefits and Support
- Mentorship, guidance, and training opportunities provided by experienced members of the Flight Operations team throughout their time in the program as a student or instructor.
- Issuance of a full Spirit Electronic Flight Bag (EFB), offering early access to training materials essential for preparing for new hire training on the Airbus A320 series aircraft.
- Provided subscriptions for Foreflight and Jeppesen Pro, equipping cadets with critical navigational and flight planning tools.
- Invitations to a "Spirit Day" event hosted at least once per year, featuring presentations, training opportunities, and networking with Flight Operations leadership.
Selected candidates must successfully complete all program requirements and meet FAA standards for an Unrestricted ATP or Restricted ATP (if applicable through the university program). A final program review is conducted before progression. All cadets are required to attend ATP/CTP training and a Spirit-specific A320 Jet Transition course prior to being assigned a new hire class date. Upon availability of a new hire class date, cadets will undergo pre-employment testing and background checks before officially joining Spirit Airlines as a new hire pilot.
Qualifications
Eligibility for the Pilot Pathway programs is based on enrollment at one of Spirit's partner flight schools or universities and meeting specific criteria:
Part 61 & 141 Flight School Requirements:
- Possession of 500 hours total flight time.
- Holds a Commercial Pilot Certificate.
- Secures a recommendation from partner school faculty or chief instructor.
- Holds a current FAA First Class Medical Certificate.
- Possesses an FCC Radio Telephone Operator Permit.
- Holds a valid passport/documents with at least nine (9) months of validity, granting the ability to travel in and out of the USA and all current and future cities/countries served by Spirit Airlines.
- Possesses the legal right to work in the United States.
University Requirements (Accredited Aviation Degree Program):
- Completion of the sophomore year of study.
- Secures a recommendation from partner school faculty or chief instructor.
- Holds a current FAA First Class Medical Certificate or demonstrates the ability to obtain it prior to commencing ATP/CTP and Jet Transition courses.
- Possesses an FCC Radio Telephone Operator Permit.
- Holds a valid passport/documents with at least nine (9) months of validity, granting the ability to travel in and out of the USA and all current and future cities/countries served by Spirit Airlines.
- Possesses the legal right to work in the United States.
Responsibilities as a Spirit Airlines First Officer
Upon transitioning to the role of First Officer, responsibilities include:
- Guaranteeing a safe and pleasant experience for all Spirit passengers.
- Safely assisting the Captain in operating the aircraft in strict accordance with all Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) and company policies and procedures.
- Displaying a passion for customer service and contributing a refreshing perspective to the airline industry.
- Performing other responsibilities as assigned. Duties may be subject to change based on circumstances such as emergencies, changes in workload, rush jobs, or technical developments.
EEOC Statement
Spirit Airlines is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All aspects of employment are governed on the basis of merit, competence, and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.