National Cadet Pilot Programme (Emiratisation)

Become one of the best trained pilots in the world and fly the flag of the nation to over 140 destinations.

We’re looking for young and ambitious Emiratis with the passion and commitment to join our National Cadet Pilot Programme and train to become world-class pilots at the Emirates Flight Training Academy in Dubai.

What we provide

Our fully sponsored programme covers the cost of your training for at least four years, including training materials, accommodation, uniforms and three daily meals.

Joining our programme will take you from zero flying hours through to ground school and the skies in a multi-engine, multi-crew aircraft. After graduation, you’ll be qualified to take command of one of the newest and most modern fleets in the sky with Emirates, the world’s largest international airline.

Our selection process

Candidates who meet the selection criteria will be invited for the following assessments

Stage 1

Maths and Physics assessments.

Medical pre-screening at the EK Clinic.

Stage 2

Compass test.

Mental maths.

Aviation English test.

Psychometrics tests (including Abstract Reasoning and Spatial Reasoning).

Stage 3

Panel interview.

GCAA Medical examination.

What to expect

The National Cadet Programme is divided into the following phases

Ab-initio Pilot

Phase 1 – Ground School (Approximately 12 months)

You will study using state-of-the-art technology and VR at Emirates Flight Training Academy

Phase 2 – Flight Training (Approximately 12 months)

Complete approximately 274 hours of flight and simulator experience at Emirates Flight Training Academy. At the end of the course, you will have a Commercial Pilot Licence (Frozen ATPL) with Multi-Instrument Rating (CPL/Multi IR), Multi Crew Cooperation Course (MCC), and Jet Orientation Course certificates.

Phase 3 – Type Rating (Approximately 3 months)

In this phase you will go through conversion and type rating at Emirates Training College.

Phase 4 – Line Training (Approximately 8 months)

In this phase, you'll complete line training on the Emirates widebody aircraft you have been trained on and a Frozen Air Transport Pilot Licence approved by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority.

First Officer

As a line pilot you’ll be flying one of the youngest and most modern fleet of aircraft in the skies with the world’s largest international airline, Emirates.

Here’s what we’re looking for in our candidates

Completion of National Service : Candidates must have completed their National Service before joining the program.

Height : Minimum of 160 cm.

Medical Fitness : Candidates must be medically fit with a BMI of 29 or less.

Citizenship : Must hold a valid UAE passport and Khulasat Al Qaid.

Eligibility Requirements

1. High School Graduates (Scientific Stream only)

Age : 18-21 years old.

Academic Requirements : Minimum high school score of 80%.

Subjects : Candidates must be science graduates with their last year education in chemistry, physics, or mathematics. Transcripts and High School certificates will be assessed.

Language Proficiency : IELTS score of 6.0 is required at the time of application (minimum of 5.5 per element) or TOEFL score of PBT 510/IBT 65.

1. Degree Holders (Diploma and Above)

Age : 22-26 years old.

Academic Requirements : Minimum GPA of 3.0 in a Scientific or Engineering Major.

Prepare for Your Application

Before you hit the 'Apply' button, make sure the following documents are ready for upload. Your application cannot be processed until all documents are correctly submitted

Updated CV

Highest Education Certificate

Valid UAE Passport

Emirates ID

National Service Completion Letter (if applicable)

TOEFL/IELTS certificate

Why Apply? This is your opportunity to join an elite program that shapes future leaders in aviation. With rigorous training and support from industry experts, you’ll be on a fast track to achieving your dreams of becoming a pilot.

Phase 1 – Ground School (12 months): Salary of AED 6,365 (Basic pay & fixed allowances). Additionally, meals and accommodation will be provided at EFTA.

Phase 2 – Flight Training (12 months): Salary of AED 6,365 (Basic pay & fixed allowances). Additionally, meals and accommodation will be provided at EFTA.

Phase 3 – Type Rating (3 months): Salary of AED 18,335 (Basic pay & fixed allowances)

Phase 4 – Line Training (8 months): Salary of AED 31,745 (Basic pay & fixed allowances)

First Officer: Salary of AED 52,105 (Basic pay & fixed allowances)