Cebu Pacific has announced an exciting new opportunity for aspiring pilots through its Cadet Pilot Program, created in partnership with Cebu-based flight training school, Airworks Aviation. This program offers comprehensive training, mentorship, and a guaranteed position with the airline upon completion.
On June 6, 2024, Cebu Pacific and Airworks Aviation signed a memorandum of agreement to formalize their collaboration on the Cadet Pilot Program. The signing event, held at NUSTAR in Cebu City, saw attendance from notable figures such as Lapu-Lapu City Councilor Joseph Pangatungan and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines Director General Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo.
Program Details and Application Process
The Cadet Pilot Program spans 96 weeks and is self-funded. It aims to train candidates to become licensed commercial pilots. The first application phase runs from June 7 to June 13, 2024, through Cebu Pacific’s official communication channels. Interested applicants can access the application form during this period.
Captain Samuel Avila II, Cebu Pacific’s Vice President for Flight Operations, expressed excitement about the program, stating, “We’re thrilled to offer aspiring pilots the opportunity to become commercially licensed through our Cadet Pilot Program. Currently, we are the only airline in the Philippines with a cadet pilot program. This initiative will allow us to produce highly skilled pilots ready to provide safe, convenient, and reliable flights for every Juan.”
Training Phases and Structure
The program comprises three distinct phases. The first phase involves a four-week Aviation Foundation Course in Pasay City, Metro Manila. In the second phase, cadets will undergo Basic Flight Training at Airworks Aviation Academy located at Mactan International Airport in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, for 68 weeks. The final phase includes 24 weeks of Airline Integration Training back in Pasay City.
Recognizing the financial challenges of pilot training, Cebu Pacific has partnered with the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) to offer exclusive loan options for Cadet Pilot Program participants. These loan options are also available to sponsors, such as parents or guardians, of the cadet applicants.
Selection Process
Candidates who pass the initial application will be invited for a panel interview with Cebu Pacific. Those who succeed in the interview will proceed to a medical assessment at a partner health facility. Upon completing the medical assessments, candidates will be assigned to a training batch, subject to agreement on the program’s terms and conditions.
Airworks Aviation President Vincent Charles Ong highlighted the program’s potential, stating, “For thirty years, Airworks Aviation has grown steadily to enable aspiring pilots to pursue a career in aviation. This cadet pilot program, which we launched together with Cebu Pacific, will allow us to further provide aspiring pilots with the means to fulfill their dreams at the most competitive cost and incentives. Together, we are forging the future of aviation in the country.”
Cebu Pacific’s Cadet Pilot Program represents a comprehensive pathway for aspiring pilots, combining extensive training and financial support. This initiative not only benefits individual participants but also contributes to the broader aviation sector by developing a new generation of skilled pilots.
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