Karachi( The COW News Digital)Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has initiated a new recruitment program aimed at addressing the shortage of pilots, launching an open call for 24 cadet pilots under a structured hiring scheme.
According to Express News, the national flag carrier has announced that this fresh recruitment drive is part of PIA’s efforts to reinforce its operational capacity and meet the growing demand for qualified flight crew. The cadet pilots will be hired on a two-year contractual basis, as part of the Cadet Pilots Program 2025.
As per the criteria set by the airline, candidates must possess at least 200 hours of flying experience, along with a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) issued by Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). These conditions are mandatory and non-negotiable, indicating the airline’s commitment to maintaining safety and regulatory standards.
Additionally, selected candidates will be required to sign a financial bond equivalent to USD 15,000, ensuring their commitment and tenure with the airline. The bond reflects the training investment PIA will make in the new recruits and seeks to prevent early resignations that could disrupt operational planning.
The airline had previously started a separate hiring process for 20 pilots, which is still underway. However, this new batch of 24 cadet pilots is being recruited under a distinct scheme to accelerate the resolution of staffing shortages within the cockpit crew.
PIA has invited interested candidates to submit their applications directly to its Human Resources (HR) department, emphasizing that the airline seeks enthusiastic, skilled, and committed individuals ready to serve in the national aviation sector.
This move comes as PIA continues its efforts to revamp its operations and restructure its workforce to remain competitive regionally and globally. Aviation experts view the initiative as a positive signal of recovery and modernization, after years of setbacks due to financial and regulatory challenges.
The recruitment of cadet pilots is expected to bolster flight operations, reduce delays, and improve passenger service by addressing a critical gap in pilot availability — an issue affecting many airlines globally post-pandemic.
PIA has assured transparency and merit-based selection in the recruitment process, inviting young aviators to be part of what it calls the next generation of national aviation excellence.
