Ireland's Atlantic Flight Training Academy Welcomes 45 Integrated Cadets Across 4 Pilot Training Pathways in August 2026

Ireland – Atlantic Flight Training Academy (AFTA) has welcomed 45 new integrated cadets across its Ab-Initio Ryanair Future Flyer Academy, VistaJet Mentored Programme, Fully Integrated First Officer Pilot Training Programme and Munster Technological University Global Business & Pilot Studies pathway.

• The new intake are expected to train with AFTA over approximately the next 18 months as they progress toward commercial pilot qualifications, according to the academy.
• AFTA’s Ab-Initio Ryanair Future Flyer Academy pathway provides 220 hours of flight training and is structured around an 18–24 month training period before a Ryanair Boeing 737 type rating. Successful candidates receive a conditional Ryanair employment offer before commencing training, subject to completing the programme and the airline’s final assessment requirements.
• The VistaJet Mentored Programme provides three entry tracks. Its ab-initio Track 1 combines an 18–24 month integrated training programme, including a VistaJet-specific APS MCC, with a Flight Instructor Rating and subsequent employment as an AFTA instructor until the pilot reaches at least 700 flying hours; a bonded VistaJet type-rating offer is then available when a suitable position exists.
• Cadets joining AFTA through Munster Technological University’s BSc (Honours) in Global Business and Pilot Studies combine commercial pilot training with a four-year Level 8 degree. MTU currently lists 20 places on the programme, with Year 1 delivered at its Bishopstown Campus, Years 2 and 3 incorporating flight training at AFTA and Year 4 delivered online.
• The MTU pathway incorporates 220 hours of flight training at Cork and Waterford and leads to a frozen ATPL package comprising a CPL, Multi-Engine Instrument Rating, APS MCC and UPRT training alongside the academic qualification. Students on the degree pathway may apply for either AFTA’s Ryanair Future Flyer Academy or its Fully Integrated Airline First Officer programme.
• AFTA operates a 26-aircraft organisation-wide fleet and lists Cessna 172, Diamond DA40/DA42 and Slingsby aircraft within its pilot-training operation, alongside two Vulcanair P.68 aircraft used by its aerial-survey division. The academy also operates fixed-base training devices including Boeing 737-800NG and Boeing 737 MAX 8200 platforms.

Source: Atlantic Flight Training Academy