Aer Lingus has launched ‘Aer Lingus Future Pilot Programme’ – a fully-sponsored, fully mentored training platform, run by the airline, for aspiring pilots.
Aer Lingus has a rich history of supporting first-time pilots and over the last five years has trained and mentored over 50 flight crew, all of whom are working for the airline as commercial pilots, as the airline continues to expand and develop scores of new routes.
Aer Lingus now flies to more than 100 destinations across UK, Europe and North America.
Successful candidates must excel during an intensive 14-month training programme.
The recruits of 2018 will begin their aviation career as a First Officer in 2020 on Aer Lingus’ brand new Airbus A320 and A321 neo long-range aircraft.
Aer Lingus is focusing strongly on its bid to attract more female applicants to its Future Pilot Programme, building on its already impressive existing track record in supporting female pilots.
Aer Lingus was the very first airline in Europe to employ a female pilot, Gráinne Cronin.
Currently, Aer Lingus employs twice as many female pilots compared with the international airline industry average.
Mike Rutter, Aer Lingus chief operating officer, said: “This is a unique opportunity for aspiring pilots.
“At Aer Lingus, we are extremely proud of our rich heritage in training programmes specifically geared towards first-time pilots and we are one of very few airlines globally who provide this degree of support.
“It’s an exciting time to join Aer Lingus as we remain committed to growing the network which creates attractive opportunities for our pilots.
“We are looking for candidates from diverse backgrounds; strong team players who demonstrate leadership skills who will ultimately join us in delivering the guest experience that positions Aer Lingus as a leading value carrier worldwide.”
Aer Lingus has embarked on significant network expansion in recent years having added six new transatlantic routes to its long-haul network in the last two years, which include Hartford, Los Angeles, Newark, Miami and Philadelphia.
The airline’s latest transatlantic route from Dublin to Seattle launches on May 18th this year.
Applicants are invited to apply online via the Aer Lingus careers website.
The closing date for applications is Sunday, May 13th.