Emirates Flight Training Academy (EFTA) has celebrated the graduation of 77 flight cadets, marking another milestone in the UAE’s aviation talent pipeline. The ceremony included 52 Emirati graduates from the Emirates Group’s UAE National Pilot Cadet Programme.
This latest cohort brings EFTA’s total graduate count to over 300 skilled pilots since its establishment.
Emirates Sets Ambitious Pilot Recruitment Target
Adel Al Redha, Deputy President and COO of Emirates Airline, confirmed the carrier’s aggressive growth plans during the graduation event. Emirates aims to recruit 5,000 pilots over the next 8 to 10 years.
This expansion reflects the airline’s confidence in Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub. With demand for commercial pilots rising across the industry, Emirates is investing heavily in homegrown talent through EFTA.
Related: Emirates Hiring 1,500 Pilots by 2027: Complete Salary & Requirements Guide
Graduate Diversity Reflects Global Reach
The graduate pool demonstrated EFTA’s international appeal:
- 52 Emirati nationals through the UAE National Pilot Cadet Programme
- 25 international graduates representing 15 different countries
This mix supports Emirates’ dual objective: developing local Emirati talent whilst maintaining its multinational crew composition.
Top Performers Recognised at Graduation
EFTA honoured five cadets for outstanding performance throughout their training:
- Abdulrahman Alnuaimi – Exceptional Achievement
- Falah Alhosani – Exceptional Achievement
- Giada Macario – Exceptional Achievement
- Shaheer Bhatti – Exceptional Achievement
- Saeed Abdulla – Most Diligent Cadet
Giada Macario shared her experience with Khaleej Times: “After three years of training at EFTA, both on the ground and in the sky, graduating and getting recognised was the best gift.”
She added that despite long training days with classes running until 4pm, the determination to succeed kept cadets motivated. “We knew that at the end, this is the result.”
What Training Involves at EFTA
EFTA’s programme combines ground school and flight school components. Ground school consists of three phases, with each phase requiring students to pass four to five subjects.
Graduate Yousif Al Ali offered perspective on the academy’s challenge level: “They say it’s hard, but no, it’s not hard. It just takes time and you have to put effort into the subjects.”
Following graduation, cadets will complete additional type-rating training on Boeing and Airbus aircraft before joining Emirates’ operational fleet.
Related: How Much Do Emirates Pilots Earn? 2025 Salary Guide & Hiring Drive
International Students Now Welcome at EFTA
EFTA initially operated exclusively for Emirati nationals. The academy has since expanded enrollment to accept international students, broadening access to one of the region’s premier pilot training facilities.
This shift aligns with Emirates’ broader recruitment strategy and the global shortage of qualified commercial pilots. Aviation industry projections estimate a need for 600,000 new pilots worldwide by 2040.
Related: UAE Aviation Jobs: 600 New Positions & 8% Salary Rise Expected in 2025
Key Takeaway
Emirates Flight Training Academy’s latest graduation of 77 pilots – including 52 Emiratis – demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to developing aviation talent locally. With Emirates targeting 5,000 new pilots over the next decade, EFTA graduates are positioned for lucrative careers with one of the world’s largest international airlines. The academy’s expansion to international students signals growing opportunities for aspiring pilots globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pilots graduated from Emirates Flight Training Academy?
77 flight cadets graduated in the latest EFTA ceremony. This included 52 Emirati nationals from the UAE National Pilot Cadet Programme and 25 international graduates from 15 countries.
How many total graduates has EFTA produced?
EFTA has now graduated over 300 pilots since its establishment. The academy continues to expand its output to meet Emirates’ ambitious recruitment targets.
What is Emirates’ pilot recruitment target?
Emirates aims to recruit 5,000 pilots over the next 8 to 10 years. This aggressive expansion supports the airline’s growing fleet and route network.
Can international students train at Emirates Flight Training Academy?
Yes. EFTA initially accepted only Emirati nationals but has since opened enrollment to international students. Graduates from 15 different countries were represented in the latest class.
What happens after graduating from EFTA?
Graduates undergo additional type-rating training on Boeing and Airbus aircraft. This prepares them for operational flying with Emirates on the airline’s wide-body fleet.
How long is the pilot training programme at EFTA?
The training programme spans approximately three years. It combines ground school (three phases with four to five subjects each) and flight school components.
What salaries can EFTA graduates expect at Emirates?
Emirates First Officers can expect starting salaries around AED 31,000-34,000 monthly. Captains earn significantly more, with total packages reaching AED 98,750 monthly for senior pilots. All salaries are tax-free.
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