Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace

Jota Aviation launch pilot cadet programme

Southend Airport based Jota Aviation has become the latest airline to launch a pilot cadet programme which offers talented newly qualified pilots the opportunity to fulfil their dream of becoming a commercial airline pilots.

Typically, a pilot can expect to pay for the cost of a type rating before flying for a commercial airline and the huge expense is often prohibitive. In an industry now struggling with a shortage of existing pilots combined with a maturing workforce, airlines have recognised the need to develop young individuals by offering incentives and both funded and self-funded pilot schemes.

Advertisement
ODU RT

The essential entry requirement for the programme meant only candidates with a valid frozen ATPL licence, a valid ME Instrument Ratings and current class 1 medical certificates were eligible to apply. Most applicants had low flying hours, which is often the case for new pilots and can make it challenging to secure their first flying job.  Over a three-month period, Jota Aviation interviewed candidates for the programme with the ultimate goal of becoming a type-rated First Officer flying its fleet of Avro RJ aircraft. Of the many candidates interviewed, three cadets were carefully selected for the course which started in December 2018. 

The cadets undertook an extensive training programme which consisted of ground training, emergency and safety training, examinations and simulator assessments before they were finally issued an AVRO RJ type rating and ready to fly for Jota Aviation as First Officers.

Head of Training for Jota Aviation, Steve Speight said: “I have experienced the great success of cadet programmes over many years and the current crop of pilots have performed very well during training and show great promise. This is an outstanding opportunity for young pilots to fly a demanding aircraft in varied and exciting environments and I look forward to further cadet recruitment.”

Charter Airline, Jota Aviation now employs over 120 people at its London Southend Airport Facilities and has an excellent track record for developing its workforce through on the job training and support programmes.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle


For further information:
recruitment@jotaaviation.com

 

Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner
Cranfield recognised with Gold Employer Recognition Award

Aerospace Defence

Cranfield recognised with Gold Employer Recognition Award

30 January 2026

Cranfield University has successfully revalidated its prestigious Gold Employer Recognition Scheme status, awarded by the Ministry of Defence to organisations that support the Armed Forces community and share the values in the Armed Forces Covenant.

IATA reports strong passenger and cargo demand in 2025

Aerospace

IATA reports strong passenger and cargo demand in 2025

29 January 2026

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released 2025 full-year and December 2025 global passenger market and air cargo performance data showing record high demand.

Farnborough International confirms headline speakers for SSWS

Aerospace Events

Farnborough International confirms headline speakers for SSWS

29 January 2026

The first wave of speakers has been announced for the next instalment of Sustainable Skies World Summit (SSWS), taking place 17th–18th March 2026 at Farnborough.

Funding of £20m set to find Britain’s next defence unicorn

Aerospace Defence Security Space Events

Funding of £20m set to find Britain’s next defence unicorn

29 January 2026

The search for the UK’s next defence unicorn has kicked off with the launch of a bespoke £20 million fund to offer accelerated contracts to small, innovative British startups who have had limited or no business with the Ministry of Defence.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Metis launches Skyperion Lightweight

Aerospace Defence Security

Metis launches Skyperion Lightweight

29 January 2026

Lincoln based specialists in Radio Frequency (RF) and drone detection technologies, Metis, have launched their latest detection product, Skyperion Lightweight.

WEAF and ADS integrate to create ADS South West

Aerospace

WEAF and ADS integrate to create ADS South West

29 January 2026

The West of England Aerospace Forum (WEAF), which operates on behalf of the South West’s aerospace and advanced manufacturing ecosystem, will transition to form ADS South West.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB