Wizz Air has launched an ambitious plan to train 1,200 new pilots by 2028. This bold move includes recruiting 240 pilots based in the UK, underlining the airline’s commitment to strengthening its footprint across Europe.
With air travel demand rebounding strongly, Wizz Air emphasizes that a skilled pilot workforce is essential for sustainable, scalable growth. The airline views this initiative as a strategic investment that will support its expanding route network and long-term ambitions.
Strategic Recruitment and Training Offer
The program targets a six-month selection phase followed by two years of intensive training. During this period, candidates will receive full support and become eligible for certification as Wizz Air pilots.
Wizz Air promises a clear, competitive compensation structure:
- £40,000 during training
- £60,000 following training completion
- Up to £90,000 after two years
- Captains may command £145,000 to £200,000 annually
Such financial terms aim to draw not only young aviation aspirants but also professionals seeking a career shift.
UK Focus and Broader Reach
Of the 1,200 new pilots, 240 will be recruited in the UK, reflecting Wizz Air’s plans to intensify its presence there. Presently, the airline employs over 250 pilots in the UK and more than 2,800 across its global operations. This new wave of recruitment will significantly enhance capacity in key markets.
Beyond the UK, Wizz Air is also expanding recruitment into Ireland for the first time, with the airline present at upcoming “Pilot Careers Live” events in Dublin and London. These events offer prospective candidates a chance to meet recruiters, learn about the training path, and explore aviation careers.
Enabling Aviation Growth
This large-scale training initiative aligns with Wizz Air’s broader growth strategy. The airline aims to expand its fleet and network aggressively, aspiring to operate 500 aircraft by 2030. To reach that target, adding well-trained pilots is a critical enabler.
By investing in home-grown talent, Wizz Air can increase operational resilience, reduce reliance on external hiring, and align crew growth with route expansion. Local recruitment in UK and European markets also helps strengthen aviation ecosystems and support regional economies.
Attracting Career Changers
Wizz Air is particularly keen to appeal to those looking to switch careers. The airline emphasizes that the program is accessible to qualified candidates, regardless of prior aviation experience.
This opens a pathway for people from diverse professional backgrounds to enter aviation. The promise of structured development, competitive pay, and a defined progression to captaincy make the proposition especially compelling.
This approach also contributes to workforce diversity and injects fresh perspectives into the industry—a benefit both to the airline and its future operations.
Meeting the Team & Recruitment Events
Prospective pilots can meet Wizz Air’s recruitment teams at Pilot Careers Live events in Dublin on October 18 and London on November 1. At these events, candidates can:
- Engage with airline representatives
- Learn about the full training program
- Get guidance on application and career pathways
Such face-to-face interactions help clear doubts and foster trust between the airline and aspirants.
Industry Impacts & Outlook
Wizz Air’s plan to train 1,200 pilots is more than a recruitment push. It signals long-term confidence in the aviation sector’s recovery. The airline bets that demand for air travel will continue to grow, especially in underserved regions and secondary cities.
By prioritizing pilot development, Wizz Air bolsters its operational backbone and differentiates itself in a competitive low-cost market. The move may also trigger similar initiatives by other carriers vying for top talent.
Although Wizz Air faces operational challenges—including grounded planes due to engine issues—it remains determined to expand capacity and restore growth momentum. The pilot training scheme could offset some constraints by ensuring a steady pipeline of crew for future expansion.
In summary, Wizz Air’s pledge to train 1,200 new pilots by 2028, with 240 in the UK, reaffirms its growth ambitions. The program offers accessible training, competitive remuneration, and strong career progression. As the airline scales its fleet and network, this bold investment in people could reshape aviation recruitment standards across Europe.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
