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Etihad Airways

Etihad Cadet Pilot Programme (UAE Nationals) – Abu Dhabi

✈️ Etihad Cadet Pilot Programme for UAE Nationals

Join Etihad Airways and train to become a professional airline pilot. This structured two-year programme combines rigorous ground school in the UAE and overseas, high-fidelity simulator sessions, and practical flying—guided at every step by experienced instructor pilots. Built on safety, discipline, and continuous development, it charts a clear pathway from cadet training through line flying and onward to Senior First Officer.

  • Employer: Etihad Airways
  • Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
  • Programme length: 2 years (structured cadet training)
  • Eligibility: UAE Nationals only
  • Visa sponsorship: Provided

🧭 Your training journey

  • Commit to a structured two-year cadet programme to obtain the necessary flight qualifications.
  • Complete ground school in the UAE and overseas, high-fidelity flight simulation, and practical flying training.
  • Make safety the cornerstone of your development, learning and adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and regulatory requirements at all times.
  • Receive ongoing mentoring and support from highly experienced instructor pilots.

Throughout the programme you will build the knowledge, airmanship, and professionalism expected of Etihad pilots, with a defined pathway into line operations and progression based on competency and hours.

🧰 What you’ll bring

  • Nationality: UAE Nationals only
  • Age: 18–29 years
  • Height: Minimum 160 cm
  • Education:
    • High school diploma with an overall minimum grade of 80% (including passing grades in Mathematics and Physics), or
    • A higher-education qualification such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
  • English proficiency: IELTS 5.5+ or EmSAT English 1250+
  • National Service (males): Completed UAE National Service or permanent exemption at the time of application
  • Personal attributes: Passion for aviation, commitment to continuous learning and development, strong command of written and spoken English

🌟 Pay, benefits & career progression

  • Training provided: Ground instruction, simulator sessions, practical flight training, and mentorship from instructor pilots
  • During cadet training (first 2 years): AED 5,000 per month
  • Post-License Skill Test (LST): AED 16,667 per month + variable allowances for 6 months
  • After line training under supervision: AED 24,000 per month + variable allowances; step increments over 4 years capped at AED 34,000 per month
  • Promotion pathway: Upon completing required flying hours and obtaining the ATPL, promotion to Senior First Officer with a monthly salary of AED 39,853

You will obtain the necessary flight qualifications through the programme, progressing from training into line operations with a clearly defined salary pathway.

📨 How to apply

Submit a complete application including the following documents. Applications missing any requested documents will not be considered.

  • Detailed CV
  • High school certificate (with overall grade) or higher-education certificate (Bachelor’s/Master’s)
  • English proficiency document (IELTS or EmSAT)
  • National Service Completion Certification (or permanent exemption for males)