flydubai Launches Ab Initio Pilot Training Programme
flydubai's Ab Initio Pilot Training programme offers aspiring aviators a pathway to operate as second officers on its Boeing 737 fleet. The first batch is set to begin training in late 2025.
flydubai (FZ) announced on May 22, 2025, the launch of its Ab Initio Pilot Training programme, developed in partnership with international flight training providers.
The initiative is part of the airline’s workforce strategy to support its growing fleet and operational demands over the next decade, stated the Dubai-based airline.
Comprehensive Pilot Training for Aspiring Aviators
In a statement, flydubai outlined that its Ab Initio Pilot Training programme provides all necessary training for young individuals over 17 years old, who have graduated from high school, to become commercial airline pilots.
Candidates must meet eligibility requirements and undergo rigorous screening tests, including online and on-site aptitude, cognitive, and psychomotor assessments, as well as medical clearances.
The programme includes ground school training, simulator and flight instruction, line training, and final integration into flydubai’s flight operations. According to the airline, this is a self-sponsored programme for non-UAE nationals.
Pathway to Becoming a Boeing 737
Cadets who successfully complete their initial training will qualify at the flydubai Flight Training Centre to become Boeing 737 pilots.
The airline described it as “a unique opportunity for aspiring pilots to join a Multi-Pilot License (MPL) programme, develop essential flying skills, and launch a rewarding aviation career with flydubai.”
Commenting on the programme’s launch, Captain Ahmad Bin Huzaim, Senior Vice President of Flight Operations at Flydubai, said:
“The flydubai Ab Initio programme is designed to identify and train passionate individuals, with little to no prior flying experience, and prepare them to operate as second officers on our growing fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft.
“The rigorous programme is a structured journey that takes cadets from foundational theory to commercial flight readiness in approximately 18 to 24 months.”
flydubai Scales Operations: New Aircraft, Skilled Workforce
flydubai notes, it is expected to take delivery of 12 aircraft in 2025 and has an ongoing recruitment drive to further support its growth trajectory.
The new Ab Initio programme is one of many initiatives launched to continue attracting and growing its skilled workforce.
Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at Flydubai, added, “This programme opens the door to homegrown Emirati talent, as well as residents and international applicants who are passionate about aviation, to pursue a career in one of the most thriving hubs in the world.”
The first batch of cadets is expected to begin training in the last quarter of 2025.
More about the Ab Initio Pilot Programme’s application.