UAE Nationals earn their wings in Emirates' National Cadet Pilot Programme

At a graduation ceremony held at the auditorium of the new Emirates Headquarters, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, presented trophies and certificates to the 18 high-fliers who have successfully completed a two-and-a-half-year pilot training programme.

Sheikh Ahmed noted: "The cadet pilot programme requires dedication and hard work, and I am proud to see our cadets, all young and talented Emiratis, successfully complete the rigorous training courses.

"Emirates is committed to the development and recruitment of UAE nationals. We are delighted that our National Cadet Pilot Programme continues to attract the brightest young UAE nationals, developing them into flight deck professionals who are playing an important role in Emirates' global expansion."

He added: "In line with the airline's fleet and route expansion plans, we expect a 100 percent growth rate for the cadet pilot programme over the next two years. We will continue to open our doors to young and hard-working Emiratis who are keen on joining the cadet pilot training programme."

At present, Emirates' flight deck crew includes 110 Emirati Captains and First Officers. In addition, 130-plus ab-initio pilots from the UAE are undergoing training with the award-winning airline.

Launched in 1994, Emirates' National Cadet Pilot Programme comprises a Foundation Course in English and Aviation Science conducted in Dubai, over about twelve months. Cadets then spend a year at Flight Training Adelaide at Parafield Airport, Australia, to gain a Commercial Pilot's License with a Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (CPL/Multi IR). In the third phase of the programme, spread over six months, the cadets train on flight simulators at the Emirates Training College in Dubai.