Skyborne Airline Academy has partnered with United Airlines to deliver the Aviate program, a training program that will train candidates with no flying experience through an FAA Part 141 program to become a Certified Flight Instructor, ultimately joining the airline as a First Officer.

Candidates will need to meet Skyborne’s entry criteria and pass the selection process, including an interview and psychometric and aptitude assessments, all online. After completing the Private Certification phase of training, student pilots can apply to the Aviate program. Successful applicants will train at Vero Beach in Florida, receive pilot mentorship, and a Conditional Job Offer for a First Officer position at United Airlines.

In a first for the US industry, trainees in the program will be eligible for the Skyborne Guarantee, a form of money-back guarantee upon successful completion of the Skyborne selection process and Private Pilot Certificate phase.

Lee Woodward, Chief Executive Officer, Skyborne, said, “[the Aviate program] will immerse trainees in airline technique, custom and practice, equipping graduates with the skills to be truly flight deck ready.

“In the US, air passenger numbers are now within 5% of the 2019 levels and in order to meet this demand for air travel, the aviation industry needs focused initiatives like Aviate. United Airlines is leading the way in responding to the pilot shortage and we’re extremely proud this partnership will deliver the next generation of competent, professional and resilient airline pilots.”

Captain Curtis Brunjes, Managing Director of Aviate & Pilot Strategy, United Airlines, added, “We are thrilled to partner with Skyborne Airline Academy and are confident they will be an invaluable asset to Aviate due to their innovative approach to the aviation market, prestigious reputation and rigorous training. We look forward to working with them and welcoming more pilots to the united family.”