Cadet Pilot Programme

Etihad; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Etihad Airways is seeking UAE Nationals for its Cadet Pilot Programme, offering a structured two-year training with a monthly salary starting at AED 5,000. Candidates will gain essential flight qualifications and experience in a growing airline, with opportunities for career advancement to Senior First Officer.

Qualifications

• UAE National aged 18-29.
• Minimum height of 160cm.
• Minimum IELTS score of 5.5 or EmSAT English score of 1250.

Responsibilities

• Commit to a structured two-year training program.
• Obtain necessary flight qualifications including ground school and practical flying training.
• Follow safety protocols and receive mentoring from experienced pilots.

Skills

Passion for aviation

Commitment to continuous learning

Proficiency in written and spoken English

Education

High school diploma with at least 80% overall

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree

Job description

Make the world your home

At Etihad, we offer more than just a job. We fuel your ambition, unlocking countless opportunities for growth and success. We’re excited to announce the opening of applications for our UAE National Cadet Pilot Programme. This is an exciting opportunity to join Etihad during a period of growth and transformation, as we look for our next group of future pilots to fly our new and expanding fleet of aircraft.

If you’ve always dreamt of a career as a pilot, we’d love to hear from you. You’ll work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry within the UAE’s national carrier. We provide the training to help you go beyond your own potential, developing the personal and professional capabilities you’ll need to begin a successful flying career with us.

What To Expect

You’ll need to commit to a structured two-year training program to obtain the necessary flight qualifications, including ground school within the UAE and overseas, flight simulations, and practical flying training. Etihad follows a 'Safety First, Always' approach and has a perfect record in safe flight operations, making safety protocols, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and regulatory requirements a key part of your training. You’ll also receive mentoring and support from highly experienced instructor pilots throughout your journey.

Funding and Salary

Successful candidates will receive a AED 5,000 monthly salary during their training for the first two years. After passing the License Skill Test (LST), the salary increases to AED 16,667 plus variable allowances for six months. Upon completing line training under supervision (LFUS), the salary increases to AED 24,000 plus allowances, with step increments over four years, capped at AED 34,000 per month. After obtaining the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), you will be promoted to Senior First Officer (SFO) earning AED 39,853 monthly.

Candidate Requirements

• UAE National
• Aged 18-29
• Minimum height of 160cm
• High school diploma with at least 80% overall, including Mathematics and Physics, or higher education qualifications (e.g., Bachelor’s or Master’s degree)
• Minimum IELTS score of 5.5, or Minimum EmSAT English score of 1250
• Completed or exempted from UAE National Service (males only)
• Passion for aviation
• Commitment to continuous learning and development
• Proficiency in written and spoken English

Application Requirements

Please upload the following documents; applications missing any of these will not be considered:

• A detailed CV
• High school certificate showing passing grades in Maths and Physics or higher education certification
• English proficiency document (IELTS or EmSAT)
• National Service Completion Certification

Are you ready to take the first step towards the career of a lifetime? Join us and make the world your home.

Applications close on Monday, 16th June 2025. Please ensure all required documents are submitted before this date.

About Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, was established in 2003 and has become one of the world’s leading airlines. Based in Abu Dhabi, Etihad flies to numerous destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. With its codeshare partners, Etihad offers access to hundreds of international destinations. The airline has received numerous awards for its service, cargo offerings, loyalty program, and more. As part of its Journey 2030 strategy, Etihad plans to double its fleet size and triple its customer base over the next six years, aiming to be the airline everyone wants to fly with.

To learn more, visit etihad.com.