New Zealand Cadets Begin US Pilot Training

Air New Zealand has selected 30 Kiwi cadets for its inaugural pilot training programme. The first cohort of six have departed for the United States, commencing their training journey to pursue their dreams of becoming a pilot.

In June 2024, the airline announced the Mangōpare Air New Zealand Pilot Cadetship, a new accelerated pathway to becoming a pilot for Air New Zealand. Covering most of the training costs, the programme aims to inspire Kiwi to pursue a career in the flight deck.

The airline received more than 2,000 applications to the training programme, which sets aspiring pilots on an accelerated 14-month journey toward their future careers. It has now selected its cadets with 30 individuals.

Among those heading to Arizona today to begin their training is Paige Ward, 28, a former senior lab technician from Christchurch. For Paige, the idea of becoming a pilot felt out of reach – until she saw the opportunity to apply for the cadetship.

"I always had that pull to become a pilot – it's a dream job. But the financial barriers, like the high cost of training, led me to pursue a science degree instead. When I saw Air New Zealand launched the cadetship, I took a chance and applied. The idea of that first flight as a pilot is so exciting."

"The cadetship opens the door for individuals from all walks of life by reducing barriers to becoming a pilot,” said Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran. “The expedited training pathway not only helps aspiring Kiwi pilots embrace an incredible career but also plays a crucial role in ensuring we have a pipeline of pilot talent joining the Air New Zealand whānau."

The first cohort of cadets just departed, followed by four subsequent cohorts in approximately eight-week intervals. The cadets will spend 12 months in Arizona completing their initial training. After a two-week break back in New Zealand, they will then go to Dubai to complete the ATR-type rating (specific aircraft training).

Air New Zealand expects to welcome its first cohort of cadets into its internal training at the end of 2025.