The candidates will be the first group to enter Aurigny via the Leading Edge Airline Preparation programme, an integrated pilot training course for aspiring professional aviators, after they have gained their commercial pilot’s licences.
‘Welcoming our first six cadets through the Leading Edge programme is a fantastic milestone for Aurigny and for the future of the industry in Guernsey,’ said Aurigny chief operations officer Philip Smallwood.
‘It ensures a long-term, high-quality source of flight crew for our island’s air services while helping to inspire the next generation of pilots.’
Along with Leading Edge Aviation, which is based at London Oxford Airport, Aurigny has also partnered with transatlantic carrier Norse Atlantic UK, allowing the cadets to gain both operational experience in Guernsey, and eventual long-haul experience.
The training programme will have them progress from flying propeller aircraft like the ATR72-600, to large jets such as Boeing 787s.
‘I think the opportunity to develop my skills as a pilot, flying in the challenging conditions in Guernsey, as well as the opportunity to progress onwards to a huge airline with opportunity for expansion, is perfect for me,’ said young cadet Kian Le Mottee.
The training course is intended to give its students a clearly defined career path from initial training through to becoming a long-haul pilot.
It has been hailed as a new benchmark in the pilot training industry.
Once qualified, cadets will join Aurigny as first officers on the ATR 72, gaining valuable operational experience flying regional routes. Following approximately two years of service, these pilots will progress to Norse Atlantic UK. Pilot recruitment and retention has been a big problem for the local airline, particularly during its problems.
