Airline-linked cadet programmes, with operators
AvailablePilots Assist runs cadet programmes for airlines. The airline sets the entry standards, selection stages and training milestones. We handle pilot sourcing and send progress reports to the airline throughout training.
Cadets with a letter of intent can get loan-application help from Pilots Sky Lend, and the funding model is agreed with each airline in writing. A letter of intent does not guarantee any cadet employment, a job offer or financing.
- SelectionThe airline sets the standards and decides.
- Pilot sourcingWe source pilots for your airline.
- Progress reportsSent to the airline throughout training.
- Pilots Sky LendFor cadets with a letter of intent.
- Funding modelAgreed with each airline in writing.
- Letter of intentRecords an intention only.
PACadet pilots
Airline cadet program: what does cadet pilot mean?
A cadet pilot is a trainee selected into a training route linked to an airline. In India most airline cadet programs are self-funded: the cadet pays for training, and the airline sets entry standards and runs selection. Airline-sponsored pilot training, where the airline pays, is rare. A letter of intent or a cadet place does not guarantee a job or financing. Loans of up to ₹1 crore are available, subject to lender approval — see pilot training loans. Related: IndiGo cadet pilot program guide, cadet pilot programmes in India.
PAWho it's for
Who this is for
- Heads of Training, Chief Pilots and crew-recruitment leads at airlines and cargo operators
- Airlines that want cadets selected to their own standards
- Airlines that want regular progress reports while their cadets train
- Cadets with a letter of intent who want loan-application help from Pilots Sky Lend
PAHow it works
How the programme works
- 1SelectionThe airline sets the entry standards and makes the final selection. Pilots Assist handles pilot sourcing, with recruitment marketing and screening support.
- 2TrainingCadets train at independent partner flight schools, under the training country's regulator.
- 3FundingCadets with a letter of intent can use Pilots Sky Lend. The funding model is agreed with each airline in writing.
- 4ReportingProgress reports go to the airline throughout training.
PAResponsibilities
Who does what
How the work is split. The details are agreed with each airline in writing.
PAQuestions
Questions about cadet programmes
How does it start?
Through a written agreement with each airline, which sets the entry standards, selection stages and training milestones.
How is funding handled?
The funding model is agreed with each airline in writing. Cadets with a letter of intent can apply through Pilots Sky Lend, our education-loan application support.
Does a letter of intent guarantee cadets a job or funding?
No. It records an intention only, and we make this clear to every cadet in writing.
Is this a pay-to-fly scheme?
No.
Who certifies the training?
The partner flight school delivers the training under its national regulator, and the licence is issued by that regulator. Pilots Assist does not certify training.
Does starting a conversation cost anything?
No. It is free and creates no obligation on either side.
What is the cadet pilot meaning?
A cadet pilot is a trainee selected into an airline-linked training route. The airline sets entry standards and selection; in India the cadet usually pays for training. A cadet place does not guarantee a job.
Is there a cadet pilot program in Australia for Indian students?
Some Australian training organisations run routes linked to operators, with their own entry rules and visa requirements. Plan on ₹70 lakh+ for CPL training in Australia, and convert to DGCA if you want to fly in India. See pilot training in Australia.
Is there a cadet pilot program for international students?
Some airline-linked routes abroad accept international students, but entry rules, visas and licence conversion vary by country. Check whether the licence you earn can be converted to DGCA before you apply.
How much does an airline cadet program cost?
Costs depend on the route. Training in India costs about ₹75 lakh on approved planning figures; abroad, budgets start from about ₹60 lakh (South Africa) and reach ₹70–75 lakh+ (UK/USA). Ask for the airline's written fee schedule before paying.
PAOperator enquiry
Talk to us about cadet programmes
Tell us about your fleet, crews and timing. We reply with a call to scope your requirement. Nothing is committed on either side until a written agreement is signed.