Aer Lingus launch programme to find and hire new trainee pilots

Paul Moore

Know anyone that’s interested?

Aer Lingus have launched their Future Pilot Programme and they’re looking for new pilots to take part in the fully-sponsored training initative.

The training programme lasts for 14 months and the successful recruits will begin their aviation career as a First Officer in 2020 on Aer Lingus’ brand new Airbus A320 and A321 neo long-range aircraft.

All completed online application forms must be submitted by 17.00 GMT on Sunday 13th May 2018.

Speaking at the announcement, 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.”

He added: “We are looking for candidates from diverse backgrounds; strong team players who demonstrate leadership skills who will ultimately join us in delivering the 4 Star guest experience that positions Aer Lingus as a leading value carrier worldwide.”

Here are the essential criteria for potential applicants.

18 years of age on or before 1st January 2018
Fluent in written and spoken English
Eligible to live and work permanently in the EU
Up-to-date unrestricted worldwide passport
Able to pass an airport security vetting procedure, including a five-year background check*
Two verifiable references
Able to obtain an EASA / IAA issued Class 1 Medical, including successfully passing a colour blindness test. Please refer to www.iaa.ie prior to application to ensure you can meet all medical requirements in line with eyesight/colour blindness limitations

With regards to the minimum educational criteria, here’s what’s required.

You must have passed your Leaving Certificate (6 subjects) or equivalent
You must have obtained O5 grades in English and Mathematics at ordinary level or H6 at higher level in the Leaving Certificate
You must also have a minimum of 2 higher level subjects with a minimum of H5 grades in the Leaving Certificate
*Equivalent grades are as follows:

GCSE Maths and English must be minimum of grade C plus
3 A Levels taken at A2 level in any subject with minimum grades C,C,D

Where the minimum Leaving Certificate or equivalent grades have not been met, you must have one of the following qualifications:

A minimum of a Level 7 third level (ordinary degree) in any discipline
Completed an aviation-related apprenticeship

Aer Lingus are looking for candidates with the following skills.

Excellent interpersonal skills
Flexibility and willingness to work unsociable hours at times
Strong communicator who acts with integrity
Well-developed decision making skills
Technical awareness
Strong team player with ability to build and maintain positive working relationships and demonstrate leadership qualities
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability and motivation to achieve a consistently high level of performance

If you’re applying, we wish you the best of luck. More details can be found here.

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