easyJet has named Skyborne as an official UK training partner, after the low-cost carrier outlined a total five-year hiring target of 1,000 new pilots.

Of those, 500 will train through Skyborne Airline Academy on the Integrated ATPL (Air Transport Pilot’s Licence) route under the easyJet FlightCrew Futures Programme, while the remaining 500 will train through easyJet’s existing partner, CAE, on the Multi Pilot Licence (MPL) route.

Skyborne’s integrated ATPL is a conventional ab initio airline-pilot route that leads to a frozen ATPL and includes substantial flight training in light aircraft before type rating and airline line flying. By contrast, CAE’s MPL is a competency-based programme built around easyJet’s operation from the outset, with more emphasis on simulator and airline-specific training.

Both courses are self-funding and cost around £115,000, but successful applicants for the easyJet Flightcrew Futures programme will receive a conditional job offer as first officers.

The Integrated ATPL training will be conducted at Skyborne sites in Gloucestershire, Bournemouth and Vero Beach, Florida. Trainees will receive mentorship from the airline throughout the process, which includes ground school, flight training and APS MCC.

“Our new partnership with easyJet as an official UK training partner for the Flightcrew Futures programme marks a significant step, and we’re proud to support this next chapter in its pilot training approach. Our new five-year agreement is a true testament to our ability to train pilots of the highest quality and standards in the industry, and we take pride in this fact,” said Lee Woodward, chief executive at Skyborne.

“Many of Skyborne’s graduates have already earned their seats in the flight deck with easyJet, and through our dedicated team of experts, we’re committed to delivering 500 of the most talented and skilled individuals over the next five years, who will go on to fly passengers across Europe and beyond.”

Daniele Grassini, director of training and standards for easyJet, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Skyborne to offer more opportunities to become a pilot at easyJet, where we offer the highest standards of industry-leading training and unrivalled opportunities for professional development and progression.

“We would encourage anyone who is motivated and passionate about aviation to apply for this exciting and highly rewarding career, and look forward to welcoming even more Skyborne graduates on board in the coming years.”