Philippines – In a landmark event for the Philippine aviation sector, Cebu Pacific Air celebrated the graduation of Batch 1 of its Cadet Pilot Program, the country’s only airline-backed pilot training initiative.

• 20 cadets graduated from Cebu Pacific’s Cadet Pilot Program, a structured, airline-sponsored pathway launched to train commercial pilots locally
• The event was attended by Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Raul Del Rosario, Capt. Michael Hun Pin Lee of Cebu Pacific, Demy Ferrer, and representatives from Airworks Aviation Academy, the program’s training provider
• Cebu Pacific’s investment in in-country training through Airworks Aviation Academy provided vital support to the national pilot training ecosystem, reinforcing local job creation and sustainability
• Graduating cadets are now positioned to join Cebu Pacific’s fleet as First Officers, contributing to the airline’s recovery and fleet expansion plans

Statement

• “To Cebu Pacific: Thank you for your decision to invest in local training. The program didn’t just fill a pilot pipeline—it strengthened and practically saved the Philippine AviationIndustry. Flying Schools are where our pilots and mechanics are honed. By choosing to train here at home, you uplifted the entire ecosystem.To CAAP:
  Thank you for recognizing that aviation training organizations are the backbone of our industry, and for supporting our mission to make the Philippines a true regional training center.To Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) :
  Thank you for treating flying schools with equal priority and for continuously improving General Aviation facilities so training can flourish.

  To our instructors, mechanics and staff Airworks Aviation Company:
  Your dedication built the runway these cadets are now taking off from. Thank you for your dedication, patience and sacrifices.

  And to Batch 1:
  You are pioneers. Let this moment remind you that from today onward, you carry more than wings—you carry responsibility, trust, and the dreams of an entire nation who yearns for a better future.” shared Vincent Charles Ong.

In June 2024 Cebu Pacific (CEB), the fast growing Philippines based low-cost carrier operating over 80 aircraft, announced that it was partnering with Philippines based flight training organisation Airworks Aviation for its Cebu Pacific Cadet Pilot Program. The program is currently the only airline in the country offering this program, giving aspiring pilots high-quality training experience, mentorship, and guaranteed employment path with the airline. Over a five-year period, CEB will deploy a total of 240–300 Cadet Pilots to Airworks.

The 96 week program will see aspiring pilots get their Commercial Pilot License with Instrument Rating as well as a type rating on either Airbus A320 or ATR72-600.

Source: Vincent Charles Ong (Airworks Aviation Academy)
Photo Credit: Vincent Charles Ong (Airworks Aviation Academy)