Summary
- United Airlines launches program to provide job offers to active US military pilots, allowing them to pursue civilian careers after retirement from the military.
- Military pilots don’t need to have the Airline Transport Pilot Certificate for employment, but will need to complete an interview.
- United Airlines values military skills and background, aiming to support pilots in transitioning to civilian commercial pilot roles by providing tools and resources for success.
One of the US big three airlines, United Airlines, has launched a new program to provide conditional job offers to active US military pilots. The program is created to assist pilots with a reliable placement opportunity after their active duty with the US military. Military pilots can work their way towards the requirements of the job at United while serving the nation through their active duty roles.
The new program by United
US military pilots can now take part in the one-of-a-kind pilot recruitment program while continuing their active duty time. Unlike conventional recruitment processes, military pilots do not have to hold the Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (ATP) at the time of the employment application.
Photo: United Airlines
Instead, they are required to appear in an interview to show their candidacy. Successful candidates will be offered a conditional position contingent upon completion of their ATP and other training. The program provides the candidates flexibility in terms of the time of their joining. Pilots can fulfill the requirements of their military duties and select a start date with United based on their schedules.
The CEO of United Airlines, Scott Kirby, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch of the new recruitment program by saying,
At United, we are committed to investing in individuals who have served and are serving our country – whose military skills and background are invaluable to our airline. Launching this program is a win-win: our airline gets direct access to some of the best, most talented aviators in the world, and military pilots – and their families – get the time they need to plan their civilian career while still serving.
Adding more pilots to the growing team
United Airlines employs over 16,000 pilots across its network. Nearly 20% of all United pilots are either currently serving in the US military or have served in the past. The airline is one of the largest employers of military veterans. More than 9,000 military veterans and active duty personnel are employed with the carrier in various roles.
Photo: Joe Kunzler | Simple Flying
According to a United Captain, Micheal Bonner, who is the Managing Director of Aviate and Pilot Strategy and has previously served as a US Air Force and Navy pilot,
As a former military pilot, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to transition to a civilian commercial pilot, but through this new program, we’re providing the necessary tools, resources, and support system to ensure a direct path to the United flight deck. Whether you are an active-duty pilot or approaching retirement, I encourage you to join the largest widebody fleet in the U.S.
One of the unique features of the program is that it allows active-duty pilots to plan their retirement with the military before committing to the airline. United has opened the application process for interested candidates and encourages those who are either flying as a reserve or are less than six months away from planned retirement from the military to apply for the First Officer position with United.
What are your thoughts on the new pilot recruitment process for active military pilots launched by United? Tell us in the comments section.
Source: United Airlines Newsroom