EasyJet to launch pilot degree course
EasyJet is to launch the first airline-backed UK degree course for pilots.
The BSc (Hons) degree in Professional Aviation Pilot Practice will take place at Middlesex University, run by the Institute of Work-based Learning.
The move means pilots will be able to study towards a degree while undergoing pilot training, which will give them access to government funding for students.
Students will complete the first two levels of the course with CTC Aviation as part of the CTC Wings training programme and the third level with easyJet, undertaking training on specific aircraft, line training and two modules of directed study while flying for the airline.
EasyJet chief executive Carolyn McCall said: "I believe that it is absolutely vital to easyJet’s future that we have a pipeline of talented young pilots coming through which is why I am delighted we are now working in partnership with CTC Aviation and Middlesex University to offer a degree course for our pilots.
"This builds on the easyJet cadet programme which offers a clear career path for all pilots joining easyJet.
"CTC graduates join easyJet as co-pilots and once they have completed their first year with us they can then join easyJet as permanent employees. After flying for a further two years and reaching 2500 hours with easyJet they then become senior first officers. From that stage the aim is to achieve their command and become captains.
"With easyJet’s continued planned growth the time taken from first officer to captain is likely to be quicker than at other airlines. Beyond that there are further opportunities for pilots to develop their career whether that is into a training or management role.
"What this means is that those pilots joining easyJet now could well be looking at achieving their Command within 6 years."
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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