Summer surge: airBaltic Pilot Academy applications have doubled

The period when high school graduates submit documents for further studies has begun, bringing increased interest and demand for the airBaltic Pilot Academy. While applications are accepted year-round and new study groups start four times a year, the summer months traditionally see a significant spike – this year, the number of applications has doubled compared to previous months. Moreover, the upcoming 27th group of students will begin their European Airline Transport Pilot License studies on September 3. ​

Vilmantas Vaclovas Mažonas, CEO of airBaltic Training commented: “Summer is a time of opportunity for those ready to take the first step towards an exceptional journey in aviation. Enrolling in professional Airline Transport Pilot License studies opens the door to future growth and the path to becoming a Captain. Although cadets apply at various stages of life, the optimal time to seize this opportunity is right after high school – when knowledge is still fresh and motivation is at its peak. The growing number of aspiring pilots plays a vital role in the airline’s future development, as highly trained personnel are one of the cornerstones of efficient airline operations.”

There are 161 active students at the airBaltic Pilot Academy at the moment. Most of them are from the Baltic countries, however, there are students also from other EU countries such as Denmark, Germany, France, Finland, Spain and Italy among others. Overall, more than 10% of airBaltic Pilot Academy students are female.

Over the years, more than 130 graduates of the airBaltic Pilot Academy have become employees of the airline – most of them now flying as First Officers, with several also taking on roles as training instructors. This pathway demonstrates a clear and achievable route from training to a professional career in aviation with airBaltic.

The next graduation of the airBaltic Pilot Academy will also take place at the beginning of the new academic year and will be a milestone – with more than 20 students completing their studies, it will be the largest graduating class in the academy’s history.

For many, the profession of a pilot might seem intimidating, due to the intensity of studies, the level of responsibility, and the relatively high tuition fees. However, airBaltic offers some of the most financially attractive conditions in the European Union, including a tuition fee loan covering a significant part of the studies, helping to remove one of the biggest obstacles for students.

Students of the airBaltic Pilot Academy have to cover the costs of ATPL theory studies and 45 flight hours, at a cost of EUR 25 000. After passing airBaltic pilot assessment and becoming an employee of the company, the airline will provide financing (loan) for the rest of the studies.

Additionally, for more than a year now, airBaltic has expanded its training capabilities with its second Airbus A220 full flight simulator. This state-of-the-art addition significantly improves the airline's capacity to train and maintain the qualifications of its growing team of pilots, supporting both the expansion of its fleet and the ongoing development of the Pilot Academy. It also provides young pilots with the opportunity to learn and practice using the latest, industry-leading technology – right from the start of their journey.