Dubai-based airline flydubai has officially launched the flydubai Ab Initio Pilot Training programme, a major step in building its future workforce as the carrier continues its rapid growth. This new initiative supports the airline’s plans to receive 12 new aircraft this year and expand its current order of 125 Boeing 737 MAX and 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
With over 6,400 professionals already on board, including more than 1,300 pilots, flydubai is now opening its doors to aspiring aviators through a structured training programme that leads to a flying career on its expanding Boeing 737 fleet.
Why flydubai Launched the Ab Initio Pilot Training Programme
The flydubai Ab Initio Pilot Training programme is part of the airline’s long-term plan to train and recruit pilots who can support its growth and future expansion into international markets.
The programme is targeted at high school graduates and aviation enthusiasts who are at least 17 years old and have little to no previous flying experience. Selected cadets will train at the flydubai Flight Training Centre and graduate as Boeing 737 second officers.
According to Captain Ahmad Bin Huzaim, Senior Vice President of Flight Operations, “This programme is designed to turn passionate individuals into commercial pilots in just 18 to 24 months. It includes everything from basic theory to hands-on flight training.”
A Chance to Join One of the Fastest Growing Airlines
CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith shared that the programme will benefit both Emirati nationals and international candidates. He added, “This opens the door for homegrown talent, residents, and international students to start their aviation careers right here in Dubai – one of the most exciting aviation hubs in the world.”
While flydubai continues to face challenges due to delayed aircraft deliveries from Boeing, the company remains focused on long-term growth. Its first wide-body aircraft, originally expected by next year, is now delayed until at least August 2027. Despite these setbacks, flydubai received four Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in the first half of 2024 and expects 12 more in 2025.
Inside the flydubai Ab Initio Pilot Training Programme
What the Programme Includes
The training journey includes:
- Ground school instruction
- Simulator and real-world flight training
- Line training with flydubai
- Final integration into the airline’s flight operations as a qualified second officer
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be at least 17 years old
- Have completed high school
- Pass a series of aptitude, cognitive, and psychomotor tests
- Meet strict medical and fitness standards
Programme Start Date
The first group of cadets will begin training in the final quarter of 2025.
A Broader Vision for Future Aviation Careers
flydubai aims to expand the scope of the Ab Initio programme in the future to include more aviation-related roles such as aircraft maintenance, engineering, and air traffic control. “Academic knowledge is essential,” said Captain Huzaim, “but we also value teamwork, leadership, and decisiveness – key skills every successful pilot must have.”
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