Oslo, Norway – In a recent insight published by aviation recruitment and staffing firm AAP Aviation on the topic of future pilot shortage, the organization called for financially accessible, inclusive pilot training pathways. It states

• Structured programs, like fully funded or job-guaranteed cadet schemes, are essential to building a resilient and diverse pilot workforce. These programs address both the financial barriers and the career uncertainty that discourage potential candidates from entering the profession.

• Airlines leading with long-term investment in training are already seeing results. For example:

  • Wizz Air’s “She Can Fly” offers a fully funded cadet program for women, combining financial support, mentorship, and visibility, while advancing both workforce and diversity goals

  • Iberia and Emirates have implemented cadet pathways that blend partial funding with job placement guarantees or in-house academies

  • Icelandair’s cadet program, developed in partnership with AAP Aviation and Pilot Flight Academy, reflects a targeted, high-standard selection process; notably, 40% of candidates selected in 2023 were women

Source: AAP Aviation
Photo Credit: Pilot Flight Academy