The season for high school graduates to apply for advanced studies has begun, fuelling a significant rise in applications to the airBaltic Pilot Academy.
While the academy accepts candidates year-round and launches new study groups four times annually, summer traditionally sees a sharp increase in interest.
This year, applications have doubled compared to previous months, reflecting the growing allure of aviation careers.
The 27th cohort of students will start their European Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) training on September 3, marking a key milestone for the academy and the Baltic aviation sector.
Vilmantas Vaclovas Mažonas, CEO of airBaltic Training, underscores the strategic importance of this period. “Summer is a critical window for aspiring pilots to embark on their aviation journey,” he says.
“Starting ATPL training right after high school, when academic knowledge is fresh and motivation is high, sets candidates up for success. The influx of talented cadets is vital to airBaltic’s growth, as skilled pilots are essential for safe and efficient airline operations.”
This surge in applicants aligns with the airline’s ongoing expansion and its commitment to fostering the next generation of aviation professionals.
Current Pilot Academy Status
Currently, the airBaltic Pilot Academy hosts 161 active students, primarily from Baltic countries but also from EU nations such as Denmark, Germany, France, Finland, Spain, and Italy.
Over 10% of the students are women, a notable step toward greater diversity in the aviation industry. Since its establishment, the academy has produced over 130 graduates who now work for airBaltic, mostly as First Officers, with some serving as training instructors.
This clear career pathway highlights the academy’s role in bridging training and professional aviation roles. The upcoming graduation at the start of the academic year will be the academy’s largest to date, with over 20 students completing their ATPL studies.
This record-breaking class underscores the program’s growing capacity to meet the aviation industry’s demand for qualified pilots.
The path to becoming a pilot can seem daunting due to rigorous training, significant responsibility, and tuition costs.
However, airBaltic offers some of the most competitive financial terms in the EU. Students cover €25,000 for ATPL theory and 45 flight hours. Those who pass airBaltic’s pilot assessment and join the airline can access a loan to finance the remaining training costs.
This support removes a major financial barrier, making aviation careers more accessible.
Enhancing its training infrastructure, airBaltic introduced a second Airbus A220 full-flight simulator over a year ago.
This state-of-the-art equipment boosts the airline’s ability to train and certify pilots, supporting both fleet expansion and the academy’s development. It also equips students with hands-on experience using cutting-edge technology, preparing them for real-world operations from the start.
About airBaltic
Founded in 1995, airBaltic (Air Baltic Corporation AS) is the leading airline in the Baltic region. It is also one of Europe’s fastest-growing carriers.
Operating as a hybrid airline, it combines the strengths of traditional network carriers with the cost efficiencies of low-cost models.
airBaltic serves over 130 routes from its hubs in Riga, Tallinn, Vilnius, Tampere, and seasonally Gran Canaria. It connects the Baltics to more than 80 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus.
The airline operates one of Europe’s youngest fleets, comprising 49 Airbus A220-300 aircraft, known for their efficiency and passenger comfort.
Employing over 2,700 professionals, airBaltic is majority-owned by the Latvian state. The state holds a 97.97% stake, with private shareholders owning the remaining 2.03%.
This robust operational framework supports the airline’s growth and the Pilot Academy’s mission to train skilled aviators.
As the aviation industry continues to expand, the airBaltic Pilot Academy remains a cornerstone in developing talent to meet global demand. For more information on the program and applications, visit the airline’s webpage.
