Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway launches in Boca Raton, Florida

Spirit Airlines and Lynn University have announced the launch of the Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway programme at Lynn's Burton D. Morgan College of Aeronautics in Boca Raton, Florida. The collaboration is a first of its kind for Spirit, allowing students to attend a traditional university while gaining valuable experience toward a future career flying the carrier's signature yellow planes.

Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway aims to expand the airline's pipeline of professional pilots by offering mentor-ship, programme guidance and a clearly defined path to become a Spirit First Officer. Lynn students can apply for the programme after completing their sophomore year and obtaining a recommendation from a faculty member in the College of Aeronautics. If successful in Spirit's interview process, they will receive a conditional offer of employment, a Spirit Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) and will be mentored as they work toward completing their degree programme and the flight hours required for an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.

“This opportunity with Spirit Airlines opens another door for Lynn's highly trained students to advance and achieve success in their future aviation careers,” said Mike Petroski, interim dean for Lynn's Burton D. Morgan College of Aeronautics. “The programme allows Spirit access to our pool of talented aeronautic students, who in turn will receive mentor-ship, quality training, and the opportunity to progress to a rewarding career at a commercial airline.”

Spirit flies some of the newest, most fuel-efficient aircraft in the industry across a network of 90+ destinations in the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean. Many more brand-new planes are planned for delivery in 2023, creating opportunities for First Officers to quickly upgrade to captain. Spirit's pilots recently approved a contract that provides a significant pay increase and other enhanced benefits. Spirit also offers its pilots industry-leading training and great quality of life.