The demand for pilots is increasing rapidly in the UAE, across the Middle East, and globally, driven by the expansion of the aviation and tourism sectors. Capt. Abdulla Al Hammadi, Divisional Vice President at Emirates Flight Training Academy (EFTA), confirmed this trend, attributing it to the rising need for air travel and the aviation sector’s growth.
“There is a significant increase in pilot demand, not only in the UAE but worldwide, due to the exceptional growth in travel demand and the aviation ecosystem across the region,” Al Hammadi said.
Promising Opportunities for Aspiring Pilots
Al Hammadi also highlighted the global opportunities for aspiring aviators. “Aviation is a dynamic and exciting industry, offering excellent career advancement opportunities for pilots. For students and school leavers, becoming a pilot is a highly rewarding career choice,” he said.
Reports from Oliver Wyman project a global shortage of 80,000 pilots by 2032. The Middle East is expected to face a significant shortage, second only to North America, with a deficit of 3,000 pilots by 2023 and 18,000 by 2032 due to increased air travel demand.
EFTA’s Comprehensive Pilot Training Program
EFTA is collaborating with various industry stakeholders and airlines in the GCC and beyond to secure job placements for its graduates. The academy’s pilot training program, which costs $181,650 (Dh666,000), covers all essentials, including training materials, serviced accommodation, uniforms, meals, and certifications.
Dubai-based Emirates Airline also offers attractive packages for pilots, making it a top employer in the aviation sector. The first officer’s salary ranges between Dh26,000 to Dh34,000 per month, along with benefits like accommodation, annual leave, and education allowances.
Fifth Graduation Ceremony at EFTA
EFTA recently celebrated its fifth graduation ceremony, with 85 cadets completing their training. Among them, 67 were UAE nationals, and 18 were international cadets. The cadets underwent 113 weeks of training, including over 1,100 hours of ground-based learning and 270 hours of flight training.
The event was attended by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, and other senior officials. Several cadets, including Humaid Al Hammadi, Abdulla Raeisi, Alessandro Muffolini, and Sarah Shah, were recognized for their outstanding performance, with Abdulla Alkaabi receiving an award for diligence.
New Initiatives to Enhance Training
EFTA announced the launch of an Advanced Diploma in Pilot Licensing Training (Aeroplane) after being recognized as an Accredited Training Provider (ATP) by the UAE National Qualifications Centre. The academy, which can accommodate over 400 cadets, focuses on providing world-class training with personalized attention, preparing graduates for long-term aviation careers.
“Our goal isn’t just to fill the academy but to ensure cadets receive quality training and are future-ready,” Al Hammadi emphasized.
Since its inception, EFTA has trained 271 cadets, establishing itself as a leader in professional pilot training.
