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
PTC rectangle

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
ODU RT


For further information:
recruitment@jotaaviation.com

 

Advertisement
General Atomics LB
HMG Paints develops apprenticeship pathways

Aerospace Defence

HMG Paints develops apprenticeship pathways

11 February 2026

As National Apprenticeship Week reaches its 19th year, HMG Paints is continuing its commitment to workforce development within the sector through a showcase of the various development pathways found within apprenticeships in the business.

ACS UK wins two tier-one airline contracts

Aerospace

ACS UK wins two tier-one airline contracts

11 February 2026

Aircraft interiors specialist, ACS UK, has secured two significant new contracts with tier-one global airlines, covering the design and manufacture of bespoke, customised monuments for widebody aircraft.

International Group launches IADA

Aerospace

International Group launches IADA

11 February 2026

The International Group announced yesterday that it has launched an aerospace and defence division - International Aerospace & Defence Alloys (IADA) - a dedicated business focused on high-integrity alloys for aerospace and defence programmes.

Bruderer UK and Brandauer invest to mark 60 years

Aerospace

Bruderer UK and Brandauer invest to mark 60 years

10 February 2026

Telford based Bruderer UK and Brandauer are marking 60 years of precision production with a £700,000 investment.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
AFD Systems expands its workforce

Aerospace

AFD Systems expands its workforce

10 February 2026

Advanced engineering and manufacturing specialist, AFD Systems, has invested in its continued growth with the recruitment of three new employees.

EgyptAir takes delivery of first of 16 A350-900s

Aerospace

EgyptAir takes delivery of first of 16 A350-900s

9 February 2026

EgyptAir has taken delivery of its first of 16 Airbus A350 900 on order, becoming the launch operator for the type in North Africa.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner