Private aviation company Flexjet and Florida-based Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University are trying to drum up interest in business aviation jobs over commercial or military paths.
“In the past, those interested in aviation careers have looked to the airlines and the military. However, business aviation employs more individuals than the US airlines, the Air Force and the Air National Guard combined, and offer a wide range of opportunities to build challenging and fulfilling careers,” said Flexjet chairman Kenn Ricci.
“Through the Flexjet Innovation and Career Center, we hope to offer educational and training opportunities to students at one of America’s leading aeronautical academic programs while informing them about careers in business aviation," he added.
Flexjet's partnership with Embry-Riddle dates to 2017, with the aim to offer graduate pilots from Embry Riddle a path to "eventually become captains in our aircraft".
Competition for pilots in the US is hotting up, with major commercial carriers encountering shortages and being faced with contract and salary demands by staff.
“Embry-Riddle is honoured to partner with Flexjet to provide students with real-world learning opportunities and introduce them to exciting new career possibilities,” said university president P Barry Butler.