Eastern Kentucky University officially has joined Allegiant Air’s Accelerate Pilot Pathway Program, offering EKU students a fast-track to the airline industry.
EKU’s aviation program, known for its 100% job placement rate, now is part of the Accelerate Pilot Pathway program, which also includes Purdue University, Kent State University and the University of North Dakota.
“Our partnership with Allegiant Air is a significant milestone for EKU Aviation,” EKU President David McFaddin said in a news release issued Monday announcing the agreement. “Joining their Accelerate Pilot Pathway program expands opportunities for our students and demonstrates the competitiveness of our program nationwide. We are excited to offer our students a direct path to success in the airline industry.”
Upon entering their senior year, students may be hired as a cadet and provided a conditional job offer as an Allegiant first officer. Cadets will receive company benefits such as pass travel on Allegiant flights, participation in visits to Allegiant’s headquarters in Las Vegas, Nevada, and access to Allegiant’s training centers. Once a cadet reaches their required hours of flight training, Allegiant agrees to sponsor their attendance in an Airline Transport Pilot Certification course, and upon completion, will join Allegiant as a first officer.
“We are thrilled to welcome EKU into our Accelerate Pilot Pathway Program,” said Tyler Hollingsworth, Allegiant’s senior vice president of Flight Operations. “Their dedication to preparing the next generation of aviation professionals aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering growth and opportunity for aspiring pilots.”
Following a news conference, Allegiant provided a presentation and meet and greet with EKU Aviation students, then toured the Central Kentucky Regional Airport. The airport, which is home to EKU’s Aviation program, is rated as the third busiest general aviation airport in the state.
EKU Aviation offers several concentrations for students interested in the airline industry, including Professional Flight, Aerospace Management, Aerospace Technology and Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
