easyJet is re-launching its ‘Generation easyJet Pilot Training’ programme for the first time in two years – since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic – with the aim of recruiting more than 1,000 new pilots over the next five years.
The new advertising campaign backing the launch features real-life easyJet pilots to show that everyone has the potential to turn their skills and passions to becoming an airline pilot.
Captain Iris de Kan, is seen in one of the ads with 5-year-old daughter Kiki. Photos: easyJet
Mother of two, Captain Iris de Kan, is seen in one of the ads with 5-year-old daughter Kiki, illustrating that parents with multi-tasking skills could make excellent pilots.
Captain Iris de Kan said, “It’s important that girls have visible role models so we can combat job stereotypes and show that anyone with the motivation and passion can turn their skills to being an airline pilot. I love the responsibility and challenge that comes with my job – but it’s not as challenging as juggling the demands of a five-year old and a little baby at home!”
easyJet Senior First Officer Aaron Moseley went from being a DJ to pilot
easyJet Senior First Officer Aaron Moseley went from being a DJ to training to become a pilot for easyJet seven years ago.
SFO Aaron Moseley said, “I’m really proud to be a black man who is also a role model for the next generation. Growing up, I never had the chance to see or know a black airline pilot. I’m proud to be able to go into schools to talk to young people and show that you can develop skills through all kinds of experiences like music and sport that they can channel into becoming a pilot, and have the opportunities to achieve their dreams too.”
Former gymnast and now Senior First Officer with easyJet, Nina Le
Former gymnast and now Senior First Officer with easyJet, Nina Le is featured performing a split leap on the tarmac, showcasing her fantastic reactions and hand-eye coordination – key skills.
SFO Nine Le said, “Combining my love of travel with the practical skills I learnt on the gym floor really does make being a pilot the perfect match! I love my job and would really encourage anyone who loves a challenge – and of course great views – to consider it!”
The pilot training courses for Generation easyJet will be run by CAE.
Johan Lundgren, CEO of easyJet, said, “We are delighted to be reopening our pilot training programme again for the first time since the pandemic hit and will see us recruit over 1,000 new pilots in the coming years.
“easyJet has long championed greater diversity in the flight deck and this series of ads aims to highlight the extraordinary breadth of skills our pilots have and show that pilots can be found in all walks of life.
“We continue to focus on challenging gendered stereotypes of the career having doubled the number of female pilots flying with us in recent years. We also acknowledge that whilst we have made progress, there is still work to do. Increasing diversity in all of its forms in the flight deck is a long-term focus for easyJet and so we will continue to ensure we lead the industry on this issue.”
To apply to the Generation easyJet Pilot Training Programme, candidates must:
- Be aged 18 or over to commence training (by course start date
- The right to work with unrestricted access across EEA, EU, UK and Switzerland
- Hold a minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) Grade C or above, including maths, science and English language
- Be fluent in English (verbal and written)
- Minimum height 5ft 2in (157cm) with maximum commensurate with Airbus flight deck requirements
- Be able to obtain an EASA or CAA Class 1 medical as required for the relevant license.
