Delta Air Lines is expanding its commitment to nurturing the next generation of pilots through the Delta Propel Pilot Career Path Program with the launch of its dedicated Delta Propel Flight Academy. This new initiative, in partnership with Skyborne Airline Academy, marks the fourth pathway within the Propel program, offering aspiring aviators a direct route to a pilot career with Delta. Applications are now open for the inaugural class commencing in June at Skyborne’s Vero Beach, Florida campus.
This academy represents a significant investment by Delta in creating accessible and equitable pathways for individuals seeking a pilot career. As Patrick Burns, Delta’s V.P. – Flight Operations and System Chief Pilot, stated, “The Propel Flight Academy is the latest chapter in our longstanding commitment to invest in and create new, equitable pathways for qualified talent to enter the pilot profession.” He further added, “We look forward to watching a new generation of pilots begin their journey at the Propel Flight Academy and eventually join us in the flight deck to help show Delta customers why no one better connects the world.”
The Delta Propel Pilot Career Path Program, established in 2018, has already seen considerable success through its Company, College, and Community pathways. Nearly 100 pilots have successfully transitioned to flying for Delta from these existing routes, with a further 700 currently enrolled and progressing towards their Delta careers. The addition of the Flight Academy pathway underscores Delta’s proactive approach to pilot recruitment and development, ensuring a steady stream of qualified professionals for the future.
Recognizing the financial commitment involved in pilot training, Delta is offering eligible Propel Flight Academy students up to $20,000 in financial support. Furthermore, Delta will assist with the interest costs on student loans from selected lenders, making pilot training more financially attainable for aspiring candidates.
The Delta Propel Flight Academy will be housed in a newly renovated 12,000-square-foot facility within Skyborne’s established Vero Beach, Florida, campus. This state-of-the-art environment will provide students with an optimal learning experience.
Lee Woodward, CEO of Skyborne Airline Academy, emphasized Skyborne’s commitment to airline-focused training: “At Skyborne, every aspect of our training is designed to prepare students for airline operations in terms of core knowledge and decision making, flight deck procedures and professionalism. Our team is looking forward to taking Delta Propel Flight Academy students through their pilot training journey and into their chosen career with a global airline leader who shares the same values as us in training and customer experience.”
The curriculum at the Delta Propel Flight Academy is designed to provide comprehensive training, encompassing private, instrument, commercial, and certified flight instructor certifications. The training will be delivered with a strong focus on airline operational standards, preparing graduates for the demands of a major airline environment. Upon obtaining their initial certification or rating at the academy, students can apply to the broader Delta Propel Pilot Career Path Program. Successful applicants will be required to meet specific performance benchmarks throughout their training journey.
Following successful completion of the certified flight instructor course, graduates will be offered employment as flight instructors with Skyborne. This role includes full sponsorship from Skyborne for Certified Flight Instructor Instrument and Multi Engine Instructor Ratings, along with a competitive salary and health benefits, until they accumulate 1,500 flight hours. Upon reaching this milestone, these pilots will commence their airline careers as first officers at one of Delta’s Connection Carriers, marking a significant step towards flying for Delta Air Lines.
For more detailed information about the Delta Propel Pilot Career Path Program and the new Flight Academy, please visit propel.delta.com. You can also stay updated by following Propel on Instagram and Facebook.
