Air New Zealand selected 30 cadets to be part of its first pilot training program. Now, the first group of cadets is on their way to begin their training journey.

Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran said that the airline was proud to send its first group of high-performing, diverse individuals on their journey towards becoming a pilot.

Foran said:

“The cadetship reduces barriers for individuals of all backgrounds to become a pilot.”

The expedited training pathway not only helps aspiring Kiwi pilots embrace an incredible career but also plays a crucial role in ensuring we have a pipeline of pilot talent joining the Air New Zealand whānau.

This initial cohort will then be followed by four additional cohorts at intervals of approximately eight weeks. The cadets are expected to spend 12 months in Arizona, completing their initial training. After a 2-week break in New Zealand they will then travel to Dubai to complete their ATR type rating.

Air New Zealand is expecting to welcome its first group of cadets for its internal training program at the end 2025.

Answering the call

In June of this year, the airline announced the Mangōpare Air New Zealand Pilot Cadetship, a new accelerated pathway to becoming a pilot for Air New Zealand.

The programme, which covers most of the costs for training, aims to encourage Kiwis to pursue a career on the flight deck.

The airline received over 2,000 applications for the training program, which takes aspiring pilots through a 14-month accelerated journey to their future careers.