Cadet Pilot Programme

At Etihad, we offer more than just a job.  We fuel your ambition, unlocking countless opportunities for growth and success.  We’re excited to announce the opening of applications for our UAE National Cadet Pilot Programme. This is an exciting opportunity to join Etihad during a period of growth and transformation, as we look for our next group of future pilots to fly our new and expanding fleet of aircraft.  

If you’ve always dreamt of a career as a pilot, we’d love to hear from you.  You’ll work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry within the UAE’s national carrier, We provide the training to help you go beyond your own potential, developing the personal and professional capabilities you’ll need   to begin a successful flying career with us. 

What to expect

You’ll need to commit to a structured two-year training program to obtain the necessary flight qualifications, as well as participating in ground school within the UAE and overseas, flight simulations, and practical flying training. Etihad follows a 'Safety First, Always' approach and has a perfect record in safe flight operations, so this will be a key component of your training, ensuring that you are trained in, and adhere to, safety protocols, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and regulatory requirements at all times. You’ll also receive mentoring and support from highly experienced instructor pilots throughout your training journey with us. 

Funding and salary 

Successful candidates will receive a AED 5,000 monthly salary during their training for the first two years. Upon completing License Skill Test (LST), salary rises to AED 16,667 plus variable allowances for six months. 

After completing line training under supervision (LFUS), salary increases to AED 24,000 plus variable allowances. Step increments for four years, capped at AED 34,000 per month. 

Upon completing the required flying hours and obtaining the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), you will be promoted to Senior First Officer (SFO) earning a monthly salary of AED 39,853. 

Interested? We’re looking for candidates who: 

• Are a UAE National  
• Are aged 18-29  
• Are a minimum height of 160cm 
• Have a High school diploma with an overall minimum grade of 80%, including passing grades in Mathematics and Physics, or Higher education qualification (e.g., Bachelor’s or Master’s degree) 
• Have a minimum IELTS score of 5.5, or Minimum EmSAT English score of 1250
• Have completed or have a permanent exemption from UAE National Service at the time of application (males only) 
• Demonstrate a passion for aviation 
• Are committed to continuous learning and development 
• Possess a strong command of written and spoken English 

To apply, please upload the following documents. Applications that do not include the below documents will not be considered.

• A detailed CV 
• Your high school certificate, which shows passing grades in maths and physics or higher education certification (e.g., Bachelor’s or Master’s degree) 
• English proficiency document (IELTS or EmSAT) 
• Your National Service Completion Certification  

Are you ready to take the first step towards the career of a lifetime?  Join us.  Make the world your home.

Etihad is more than the UAE’s national airline - we’re shaping the future of global aviation through the next generation of Emirati talent. From our home in Abu Dhabi, we are building meaningful career pathways that empower UAE Nationals to grow, lead and make a lasting impact across our airline. As part of our Journey 2030 ambition, we’re investing in the development of future leaders who will help define the next chapter of Etihad and the aviation industry. Join us and take your place in shaping the future.

To learn more visit www.etihad.com

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Beware of fraudulent job offers from individuals or organizations claiming to represent the Etihad group. We will never ask for personal information, bank details, or payment during the recruitment process. Interviews are conducted face-to-face or via video/telephone before any formal offer. If you are asked for money, please treat it as fraudulent.