Air Astana Cadet Pilot (Ab‑Initio) Program – Almaty | Sponsored, Job‑Linked

✈️ About the program

Launch your airline career with Air Astana’s ab‑initio Cadet Pilot pathway. This fully sponsored program takes aspiring pilots from zero flight hours to airline readiness, combining 16–18 months of intensive training at European flight schools with a type rating and employment upon successful completion. Since 2008, 300+ graduates have progressed into First Officer roles and many have advanced to Captain.

Note: This is a structured training pathway rather than a current line‑flying assignment.

🧭 Your training journey

• Complete 16–18 months of ab‑initio flight training at partner schools in Europe.
• Progress through Air Astana’s selection and assessment stages (see below).
• On successful completion, proceed to type‑rating training.
• Begin your airline career with Air Astana as an employed pilot.

🧪 Selection process

• English assessment (or IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 79)
• SHL aptitude testing
• COMPASS pilot aptitude testing
• Class 1 aviation medical examination
• Simulator assessment
• Group exercise
• Individual interview

🧰 What you bring

• Citizen of the Republic of Kazakhstan
• Aged 18–34
• Completed secondary or vocational education
• English at Intermediate level or higher (IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 79 acceptable)
• Basic knowledge of mathematics and physics
• Valid Class 1 Medical Certificate
• No criminal record
• Valid passport and eligibility for a Schengen visa

🌟 Program benefits

• Training costs financed by Air Astana
• Repayment of 75% of total training cost over 15 years of employment
• Type‑rating training included upon successful program completion
• Employment with Air Astana after training
• Proven track record: 300+ graduates since 2008, many now Captains

📨 How to apply

Applications are accepted year‑round. Submit your application and supporting documents, and be prepared to complete the staged assessments listed above. The final date for submissions under this posting is 31 December 2026.