If you’re aspiring to be a pilot but don’t know how to get started, or you feel daunted by the hefty costs, this might be of interest.
Up until October 8, 2023, Alaska Airlines is accepting applications for its Ascend Pilot Academy program based in Portland, Oregon.
The Ascend Pilot Academy is a new flight training program designed for aspiring commercial pilots with little or no flying experience.
Students will complete an intensive training and experience-building program before joining Horizon Air as a First Officer. Horizon Air is an American regional airline and a subsidiary of the Alaska Air Group.
According to Alaska Airlines, the program is designed to help all aspiring pilots, including those who may need financial support to make their dream of a flying career a reality.
Those accepted onto the program will receive a stipend of $26,463 towards their commercial pilot certificate and up to $3,500 to cover the Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument Certificate (CFII).
The program, which is located at the Hillsboro Aero Academy in Hillsboro & Redmond Oregon, can be finished within three to three-and-a-half years.
Once all training, certificate and flight experience requirements have been completed, graduates must commit to a minimum of two years working as a pilot for Horizon Air.
The airline states that an opportunity to join Alaska Airlines as a First Officer is available as part of the Pilot Pathways program once eligibility is met.
Full details, including requirements, complete benefits and rewards can be found here.