PIA Cadet Pilot Program

PIA Jobs 2025: A Guide to the Prestigious Cadet Pilot Program

PIA Cadet Pilot Program, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Corporation Limited, the national flag carrier, has announced a significant “Career Opportunity” as it expands its operations. The airline is seeking to hire highly talented and energetic professionals for the coveted position of Cadet Pilot. This is a prime opportunity for aspiring aviators to join the ranks of the “Great People to Fly With” and build a rewarding career with the national airline.

Industry Overview: The Pride of the Nation’s Skies

For decades, Pakistan International Airlines has been the face of Pakistani aviation, connecting the nation to the world and serving as a symbol of national pride. A career as a pilot with PIA is one of the most prestigious and respected professions in the country. It is a path that demands the highest levels of skill, professionalism, and responsibility. The Cadet Pilot program is the primary gateway for new pilots to enter the airline, offering a structured training path that transforms a qualified pilot into a First Officer, ready to take command of modern commercial aircraft.

Current Market Demand: The Need for a New Generation of Pilots

As PIA expands its operations and modernizes its fleet, there is a critical and ongoing demand for a new generation of well-trained pilots to fill the flight decks. This recruitment drive for 24 Cadet Pilots is a significant induction, reflecting the airline’s growth strategy and its commitment to investing in fresh talent. The selection process is designed to be highly competitive, ensuring that only the most skilled and capable individuals, who can meet the rigorous standards of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and the airline itself, are chosen to wear the PIA uniform.

Required Qualifications & Vacancy Details

PIA is seeking to fill 24 Cadet Pilot positions on a contract basis.

The eligibility criteria for the Cadet Pilot position are strict and non-negotiable. Academically, a candidate must have a minimum of an Intermediate with 1st Division/B Grade or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institute.

Professionally, the candidate must hold a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with an Instrument Rating (IR), issued by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority. They must also have a valid ICAO English Language Proficiency (ELP) level 4. A minimum of 200 flying hours of experience is required.

The candidate must meet the medical standards of the PCAA and should not be more than 35 years of age as of the last date of application submission. The appointment will be on a two-year contract, which is extendable based on the company’s requirements and the individual’s satisfactory performance.

The Selection Procedure: A Multi-Stage Gauntlet

The path to becoming a PIA Cadet Pilot is a rigorous, multi-stage process designed to select the best of the best.

The first stage for all eligible candidates will be a Computer-Based Test (CBT), which will be conducted by an independent testing agency. The test score will be displayed on the candidate’s screen immediately upon completion.

Candidates who secure 70% or more marks in the CBT will be shortlisted and called for the subsequent stages of the recruitment process. This will include a Flying Aptitude Test, a formal Interview, and a comprehensive Medical Examination. After the completion of this entire process, only the successful candidates who have cleared all stages on merit will be informed and offered a position. All provincial, regional, and other applicable quotas will be observed as per the law.

Salary Package and Training Bond

The selected Cadet Pilots will receive a monthly stipend during their initial training period with the airline. Upon the successful completion of the entire training process and the commencement of their first productive flight, they will be offered an attractive salary package that is competitive and commensurate with the role of a commercial airline pilot.

It is important to note that the employment is subject to the execution of a training bond of USD 15,000/- (or its equivalent in PKR). This bond will be on a prorated basis for a period of two years, starting from the pilot’s first productive flight.

Application Process: Your Step-by-Step Guide

The application process is multi-faceted and requires both online and manual submission steps.

First, interested candidates must fill out the prescribed Application Form, which is available on the PIA website. Alternatively, they can apply through the National Job Portal.

PIA Careers Website: https://www.piac.com.pk/corporate/career
National Job Portal (NJP): https://njp.gov.pk

Second, a non-refundable application processing fee of Rs. 2,000/- must be deposited or transferred into the PIACL bank account (HBL Account No. 0048-00179605-03). The proof of payment must be attached to the application form, and the transaction reference number must be entered in the designated section.

Third, a complete hard-copy application package must be sent via post or courier. This package must include:

The completed Application Form.
The proof of payment of the processing fee.
Photocopies of Matriculation, other qualification certificates, and experience letters.
Copies of your Domicile and National Identity Card.
Six recent passport-size photographs with a white background.

This complete package must be sent to the following address:

Manager Recruitment & Placement,PIA Head Office, Karachi Airport, Karachi.Postal Code: 75200

The deadline for the submission of all applications is within 15 days from the date of the publication of this advertisement. Candidates must check the date of the original newspaper ad to calculate the exact closing date.

Important Instructions for Applicants

Applications can also be submitted via email to recruitment@piac.aero, but this must be followed by the submission of a hard copy. By-hand applications will not be accepted.
Any use of external influence or the provision of wrong information will lead to disqualification.

Expert Tips for Applicants

Your Logbook is Your Resume: For a pilot, your logbook is the most critical document. Ensure it is meticulously maintained, up-to-date, and accurately reflects your 200+ flying hours. Be prepared for it to be scrutinized.
Prepare for the CBT: The 70% passing mark for the computer-based test is a high bar. Research the typical syllabus for airline entrance exams, which often includes subjects like aviation knowledge, physics, mathematics, and English.
A Flawless Application Package is a Must: You are applying to be a pilot for the national airline. Your application package must be a reflection of your own precision and attention to detail. Ensure all documents are complete, the form is filled out perfectly, and the fee is paid correctly.
Prepare for the Aptitude Test and Interview: The flying aptitude test will assess your psychomotor skills and spatial awareness. The interview will assess your personality, communication skills, and your motivation for joining PIA. Practice and preparation are key to success in these stages.