Emirates Flight Academy Welcomes 85 New Pilots in 2024

Emirates Flight Training Academy Celebrates Largest Graduation Ceremony in Aviation History

DUBAI – The Emirates Flight Training Academy (EFTA) held its fifth graduation ceremony on December 18, 2024, celebrating a landmark achievement in aviation education with its largest graduating cohort to date. This event not only marks the graduation of 85 talented cadets but also coincides with the introduction of an Advanced Diploma in Pilot Licensing Training (Aeroplane), following the academy’s official accreditation by the UAE National Qualifications Centre (NQC).

Emirates Pilots Graduation Ceremony: A Celebration of Achievement

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, headlined the ceremony, where he presented certificates to the graduating cadets. The event brought together senior leadership, families of graduates, current cadets, and faculty members, creating a sense of community and celebration.

In his keynote address, Sheikh Ahmed emphasized the academy’s strategic vision and transformative impact on the aviation industry. “EFTA was built on a clear vision and robust strategy,” he stated, highlighting the significance of the NQC recognition in validating their commitment to developing future-ready aviation professionals.

85 Cadets Graduate: A Diverse Cohort Ready for the Skies

The Emirates Flight Training Academy proudly celebrated the graduation of 85 cadets, which includes 67 UAE Nationals and 18 international students. This latest cohort brings the total number of EFTA graduates to an impressive 271 professionally trained pilots.

Among the graduates, four outstanding cadets were recognized: Humaid Al Hammadi, Abdulla Raeisi, Alessandro Muffolini, and Sarah Shah, with Abdulla Alkaabi receiving special recognition for his exceptional diligence. These cadets have transformed from school leavers with no prior flying experience to world-class professional pilots through rigorous training.

Captain Abdulla Al Hammadi, Divisional Vice President of EFTA, remarked, “This graduation represents more than a ceremony—it embodies the fulfillment of collective dreams.” The academy is proud to see its cadets equipped with the skills and preparedness necessary for a successful career in aviation.

New Diploma Program: Elevating Aviation Education

EFTA has introduced an Advanced Diploma in Pilot Licensing Training, providing graduates with 94 credit hours that can pave the way to Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at universities worldwide. The latest graduating class completed a comprehensive 113-week training program, which included over 1,100 hours of ground-based instruction and 270 hours of flight training using a modern fleet of 32 training aircraft based in Dubai South.

This new diploma program aligns with the General Civil Aviation Authority’s (GCAA) objectives and reinforces EFTA’s commitment to developing skilled aviators. By integrating rigorous academic education with practical training, EFTA continues to set the standard in pilot education.

Future Prospects: EASA Accreditation on the Horizon

Looking ahead, EFTA is progressing towards obtaining European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) accreditation, expected in early 2025. This significant milestone will enable graduates to secure dual licensing from both the GCAA and EASA, significantly enhancing their global career opportunities.

Cadet Faris Ahmed, representing the Class of 2024, shared his inspiring journey, stating, “My father’s passion for aviation motivated my journey. These years have been life-changing, characterized by intense training, unwavering support, and the formation of lifelong bonds.” He emphasized the thorough preparation that cadets undergo, from simulator training to their exhilarating first solo flights.

As the Emirates Flight Training Academy embarks on this new chapter, it continues to empower the next generation of aviation professionals, shaping the future of the industry both locally and globally.

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