- United's Military Pilot Program offers conditional First Officer job placements to full-time, active-duty U.S. military pilots.
- Pilots don't need an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (ATP) at application; they can earn it before joining United.
- United has seen immense growth, ordering 100 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and aiming to hire 10,000 pilots this decade.
United's Investment in Military Talents: A Win-Win Initiative
CHICAGO —United has launched an innovative initiative, the United Military Pilot Program, tailored to U.S. military pilots. This groundbreaking program assures them a position as a First Officer with the airline, contingent on meeting all hiring criteria. Unted's unique recruitment scheme will allow military pilots a seamless transition, giving them and their families ample time to transition to civilian life.
Eligibility for the program demands successful candidates to undergo an interview and complete all essential flight training and certifications. A standout feature of this initiative is that United does not mandate candidates to possess an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (ATP) right from the start. They can earn this certification before commencing their roles at United, providing flexibility and timing that suits them and their loved ones.
Scott Kirby, United's CEO, expressed his enthusiasm, noting, "The launch of this program epitomizes our dedication to those who've dedicated themselves to our nation. The expertise and skillset they bring are invaluable to us, benefiting both the airline and the pilots."
Active-duty military pilots keen on this opportunity can delve deeper and apply directly through United's platform. Those with prior military flying experience who meet United's core hiring criteria and are nearing availability, or those currently in reserve roles, are urged to apply as First Officers immediately.
Highlighting United's commitment to military personnel, the airline boasts a robust force of over 16,000 pilots. This includes more than 3,000 individuals with service histories in the U.S. Armed Forces. The airline's dedication extends to its entire workforce, employing approximately 7,700 military veterans and 1,500 individuals still in active duty, spread across a variety of roles, with many in leadership positions.
United Captain Michael Bonner, with previous affiliations to the U.S. Air Force and Navy, remarked, "Transitioning from military to civilian commercial piloting can be daunting. But with this initiative, we're offering the necessary support and resources for a smooth transition to the United cockpit." He further encouraged active-duty pilots and those nearing retirement to be part of the largest widebody fleet in the U.S.
United's ambition is palpable. As a fragment of their expansive 'United Next' strategy, the airline broke records last December by ordering 100 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with options for another 100. Given their current trajectory, United predicts the addition of approximately 700 new aircraft by 2032. This massive acquisition translates to unparalleled growth, with United setting its sights on onboarding 50,000 new team members by 2026. Prioritizing the hiring of adept pilots, the airline has already employed over 4,000 pilots in the past two years and has plans to recruit over 10,000 more in the coming decade.
