Montreal-based Air Transat and Canada’s CAE have teamed up to launch the Ascension Academy, a new cadet training programme that provides aspiring pilots with the training to become qualified seconds-in-command with Air Transat.
The Ascension Academy is currently accepting applications for training commencing in February 2024. Successful applicants will receive a conditional letter of employment from Air Transat for a second-in-command position. Following the competition of training and the security of a type rating, Ascension Academy graduates will become fully qualified Air Transat second-in-command pilots from Air Transat’s Montreal (YUL) and Toronto (YYZ) hub airports.
“The Ascension Academy is a new programme that will develop the next generation of Air Transat’s pilots,” said Marc Gilbert, Vice President, Flight Operations at Air Transat. “This programme will enable us to recruit and train pilots in advance of the increased demand anticipated over the next years. One of the advantages of the Ascension Academy is that we will have a pipeline of pilots trained to our exacting standards with the specialised knowledge and skill to operate Air Transat’s fleet to destinations throughout our network. Our strong company and positive employee experience will certainly attract many candidates.”
“We are thrilled to launch the Ascension Academy programme with Air Transat and partner with a leading Canadian airline on a proactive training approach to meet future demand for pilots,” said Nick Leontidis, Group President, Civil Aviation, CAE. “CAE forecasts a need for 63,000 new commercial pilots in North America over the next 10 years, and cadet programmes like the Ascension Academy will be key to attracting the talent needed to keep the industry flying.
“The Ascension Academy programme will not only secure a steady pipeline of qualified pilots of Air Transat, but it will also set a clear pathway for those who aspire to an exciting career in the flight deck,” added Leontidis.
Image: CAE and Air Transat Ascension Academy
