Brussels Airlines Partners with Skywings to Accelerate Pilot Recruitment and Training

Saturday, April 13, 2024

Brussels Airlines has embarked on a new collaboration with Skywings Flight Training, located in Antwerp, to streamline the recruitment and training of cadet pilots. This innovative program enables the airline to recruit pilots before they begin their training at Skywings, where they will be trained to meet the stringent standards of Brussels Airlines and learn the airline’s specific procedures.

This partnership marks a period of expansion for Brussels Airlines as it adds new aircraft and destinations to its network and seeks to hire extensively across various roles. As part of this growth, the airline has also introduced a “Multi Pilot Licence-program” with Skywings. This program recruits candidates in tandem with the airline from the outset. During their training, cadets begin working toward a Multi Pilot Licence (MPL), which is necessary for operating the multi-pilot aircraft that make up Brussels Airlines’ fleet. Training includes simulator sessions and thorough familiarization with the operational procedures of Belgium’s national carrier.

Upon completing their training, these pilots are eligible to join Brussels Airlines as first officers on the A319 and A320 fleet, thereby bypassing traditional selection processes or initial airline-specific training.

“This collaboration is a real win-win for all parties involved. The flight training becomes more affordable for the candidates and is a high-speed ticket to a career at Brussels Airlines. At the same time, it allows us to make trainings more efficient so we can welcome our colleagues on board as soon as possible.”
​- Filip Aerts, Head of Flight Operations, Brussels Airlines

Each year, the partnership aims to welcome 20 to 30 pilots from Skywings to Brussels Airlines. However, the airline continues to recruit pilots from other flight schools, given the current high demand for pilots.

“Through our partnership with Brussels Airlines, Skywings Flight Training is excited to offer a Multi Pilot License program that turns aspiring pilots into professionals in just 19 months. Together, we’re committed to not only providing top-tier training but also to fostering a future where our graduates seamlessly transition to their careers at Brussels Airlines.”
​- Pieter Brantegem, Chief Commercial Officer, Skywings Flight Training

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