Gulf Air welcomes new batch of trainee pilots

Gulf Air continues to invest in developing the next generation of specialized aviation talent, as its second cohort of 11 trainee pilots prepares to begin their training program at BAA Training facilities in Lida-Alguerei, Spain. This cohort marks a new milestone in Gulf Air’s commitment to building a sustainable base of qualified pilots and includes, for the first time, a Kuwaiti female trainee, reflecting the company’s dedication to providing more opportunities for national talent in the aviation sector.

Captain Ayman Al-Shammari, Head of Operations at Gulf Air, stated: “As Gulf Air continues to execute its plans for fleet expansion and route network growth, building a strong base of qualified pilots is essential to support this expansion while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence. Through our partnership with BAA Training, we provide aspiring pilots with internationally recognized training and equip them with the skills and competencies needed to build successful careers in the aviation industry.”

Al-Shammari added: “We are particularly proud that the first Kuwaiti female trainee is joining the program at this important stage in our efforts to provide more opportunities for national talent. Concurrently, our investment in developing local training infrastructure, including the new Approved Training Organization (ATO) facility, will enhance our internal training capabilities and support the qualification of national talent in the aviation sector, contributing to Kuwait’s ambitions to become a regional aviation hub.”

The new cohort will begin its training following the graduation of the first cohort in August 2026. The first cohort is currently undergoing an intensive, comprehensive training program to obtain an Air Transport Pilot License (ATPL) over 18 months. The curriculum includes Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) training, and the first cohort is expected to complete its training in April 2028, after which it will move on to the next phase of its career path toward qualification as airline pilots.

Alongside its international training partnerships, Gulf Air is strengthening its internal training capabilities by developing a new ATO facility in Kuwait. The purpose-built facility will feature a state-of-the-art full-flight simulator and advanced training infrastructure, enabling Gulf Air to gradually establish local pilot training programs, enhance operational readiness, and reduce reliance on training facilities outside Kuwait.

These initiatives come as Gulf Air prepares for a new phase of growth, supported by its fleet expansion and route network development. With the recent delivery of the first of 26 new Airbus aircraft and more to join the fleet soon, demand for qualified, highly skilled pilots is expected to rise significantly in the coming years. Building a sustainable base of specialized aviation talent is therefore a key pillar in supporting the company’s long-term growth ambitions and maintaining operational excellence.

For his part, Parathan Pasupathy, Chief Executive Officer, stated: “Gulf Air is fundamentally a Kuwaiti company, and we focus on driving growth, building capabilities, and attracting talent in Kuwait. As we continue to grow, we look forward to providing more professional opportunities for ambitious and hardworking Kuwaiti youth in aviation, engineering, and administrative roles.”

Jazeera Airways continues to uphold its commitment to supporting Kuwait’s Vision 2035 by investing in national talent, developing specialized capabilities within the aviation sector, and providing long-term career opportunities for Kuwaiti youth. Through its pilot training program, international partnerships, and investments in training infrastructure, Jazeera Airways contributes to shaping the future of Kuwait’s aviation sector and building the skilled workforce needed to sustain its ongoing growth.