Flydubai responds to global pilot shortage with launch of Ab Initio pilot training
May 22, 2025
Dubai’s budget carrier, flydubai, has launched its Ab Initio Pilot Training programme in collaboration with international partners.
Currently operating a fleet of 88 Boeing 737 aircraft, the airline is in the midst of a significant fleet expansion with 125 Boeing 737 Max aircraft and 30 Boeing 787s on order. To support this growth and expand its talent pool, flydubai’s Multi-Pilot License (MPL) programme is designed to prepare the future workforce for its expanding fleet and network over the next decades. The first batch of cadets is expected to commence training in Q4,2025 with training expected to last 18 to 24 months.
Global pilot shortage
With the global aviation industry facing a pilot shortage amidst growing demand, Boeing projected in 2023 that within the next 20 years, approximately 650,000 pilots will be required globally, including 58,000 in the Middle East. On average that works out at 2,900 new pilots needed each year. In 2024 flydubai recruited in the region of 130 new pilots in 2024. It’s existing 6,400 strong workforce includes over 1,130 pilots.
The training is designed “to identify and train those with little not no prior flying experience,” said Captain Ahmad Bin Huzaim, SVP of Flight Operations at flydubai. Candidates are required to meet various eligibility requirements and will undergo rigorous screening tests online and on-site, including aptitude, cognitive and psychomotor assessments.
Global appeal
The training, which includes simulator and flight instruction as well as line training, is open to aspiring young pilots over the age of 17 and cadets who complete the initial training will qualify at the flydubai Flight Training centre as Boeing 737 pilots.
“The programme will open the doors to homegrown Emirati talent, as well as residents and international applicants, who are passionate about aviation, to pursue a career in one of the most thriving hubs in the world,” said Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO at flydubai.
Plans are afoot to develop the programme beyond pilot training to cover roles across the aviation sector in maintenance and engineering, air traffic control and more.
