**AEGEAN Airlines Launches New Cycle of Pilot Scholarship Programme**
AEGEAN Airlines is set to continue its commitment to nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals in Greece with the launch of a new cycle of its Pilot Scholarship Programme. This initiative, which began in 2018, aims to provide young aspiring pilots with the necessary training and support to enter the aviation industry.
Since its inception, the Pilot Scholarship Programme has welcomed over 280 participants, with 150 individuals having successfully completed their training and now serving as pilots for AEGEAN and Olympic Air. An additional 88 candidates are currently in training, highlighting the programme's effectiveness in developing skilled aviation professionals.
The new cycle of the scholarship programme will offer 40 young men and women the opportunity to obtain a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). Participants will receive financial assistance that covers the majority of their training costs, significantly reducing the financial barriers associated with becoming a pilot. Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates will also have the prospect of immediate employment with AEGEAN and Olympic Air.
The training is conducted in collaboration with Global Aviation and Egnatia Aviation, ensuring that participants receive high-quality instruction. Following their initial training, candidates will complete their Type Rating training at the AEGEAN | CAE Flight Training Centre, where they will gain the specialized qualifications necessary to operate the specific aircraft they will be flying.
The entire training process lasts up to 20 months and is designed to make access to this demanding profession more attainable. The total cost of training for each aspiring pilot can approach €100,000, making AEGEAN's investment in the Pilot Scholarship Programme, which exceeds €17 million, a significant contribution to the aviation sector in Greece.
In addition to the Pilot Scholarship Programme, AEGEAN Airlines also launched a Scholarship Programme for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers in 2022, further demonstrating its commitment to fostering talent within the aviation industry.
Candidates interested in applying for the Pilot Scholarship Programme can submit their applications until October 16, 2026. The programme is scheduled to commence on January 11, 2027. For more detailed information regarding the terms and conditions of participation, interested individuals are encouraged to visit AEGEAN's official website or contact the airline directly via email.
Through these initiatives, AEGEAN Airlines is not only addressing the growing demand for qualified pilots in the aviation industry but also contributing to the overall strengthening of Greece's air transport sector. The airline's ongoing investment in training and development reflects a long-term strategy to ensure that the next generation of aviation professionals is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the industry.