United Launches Pilot Recruitment Program

United Airlines announced the launch of a new pilot recruitment program on Thursday. Called Aviate, the program offers “structured career pathways” for pilots and promises “the fastest path within the…

Image: United Airlines

United Airlines announced the launch of a new pilot recruitment program on Thursday. Called Aviate, the program offers “structured career pathways” for pilots and promises “the fastest path within the industry to a major airline” with a regional partner minimum requirement of 24 months and 2,000 hours. According to United, Aviate is open to “pilots at all stages of their journey—from college training to regional airline flying.”

Citing retirements, attrition and projected growth, United says it anticipated hiring more than 10,000 pilots by 2029. "With nearly half of our 12,500 pilots retiring in the next decade, combined with a period of strong growth at our airline, United is uniquely positioned to offer pilots the opportunity to get where they want to go in their careers faster than ever," said United Senior Vice President of Flight Operations and chief pilot Bryan Quigley.

The airline says successful Aviate applicants will receive a conditional job offer with United along with coaching and career development provided by the program. They will also have opportunities for access to senior leadership, site visits and tours, and some travel privileges. Current Aviate regional partners include Air Wisconsin, ExpressJet, Mesa Airlines and CommutAir.

Kate O’Connor works as AVweb's Editor-in-Chief. She is a private pilot, certificated aircraft dispatcher, and graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.