Ryanair Boosts Portugal Aviation Future with New Engineering Training Partnerships and Jobs

Written By: Binoy Mehera

Binoy Mehera

A curious mind driven by a passion for storytelling, I find inspiration in uncovering hidden perspectives, exploring diverse experiences, and shaping ideas into narratives that leave an impact. With three years of experience in journalism and content creation, I have developed a strong instinct for identifying meaningful stories, blending research with creativity, and presenting information in a way that connects with readers. My storytelling journey is guided by a fascination for culture, travel, lifestyle, and the human experiences that define our world. I aim to create narratives that not only inform but also spark curiosity, evoke emotions, and offer audiences a deeper understanding of every story.

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September 3, 2026 3:43 PM

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Ryanair continues to strengthen its plan to build an aviation engineering talent pipeline by expanding available partnerships within Portugal’s higher education system. Ryanair has over 10 partnerships with universities, polytechnic institutes, vocational schools, and Part-147 aviation training organizations. This pillar of Ryanair’s work will ensure talent remains in Portugal and will allow Ryanair to have a flexible, trained workforce.

These partnerships support Ryanair’s wider growth plans as the airline prepares to expand its fleet to 800 aircraft and serve 300 million passengers annually by 2034. By investing in engineering education and practical training, Ryanair aims to create a strong pipeline of aviation talent capable of supporting its future operations.

The airline’s engineering teams in Portugal are working closely with several leading educational institutions, including engineering schools, universities and technical training providers. Through these collaborations, students gain exposure to real-world aircraft maintenance operations and experience within a professional airline engineering environment.

Ryanair launched its first academic partnership in Portugal in 2024 and has continued to grow its education network since then. The airline has already welcomed 38 engineering interns in Portugal during 2026, providing students with hands-on experience and valuable industry knowledge.

While many airlines face challenges in finding qualified engineering professionals, Ryanair is taking a proactive approach by investing in future aviation specialists. The partnerships are designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements, giving students practical skills while creating opportunities for long-term careers within the airline’s engineering division.

Students participating in these programmes gain experience working with one of Europe’s youngest and most efficient aircraft fleets. The initiatives also provide a direct route into professional engineering roles, helping graduates transition from education into the aviation workforce.

Ryanair continues to expand its recruitment efforts in Portugal, with opportunities available for skilled aviation professionals, including B1 Engineers, aircraft mechanics and sheet metal workers. The airline remains focused on attracting and developing engineering talent to support its growing network and future fleet expansion.

Ryanair’s COO, Neal McMahon said:

“Ryanair is proud to be playing a leading role in developing Portugal’s next generation of aircraft engineers. As we grow to 800 aircraft and 300 million passengers annually, we will have opportunities for highly paid and highly skilled engineering jobs. Through our partnerships with over 10 universities, polytechnics, vocational schools and Part-147 organisations, we are giving students real, hands-on experience in Ryanair’s aircraft maintenance environment – not just classroom theory.

Portugal has fantastic engineering talent and, rather than waiting for qualified engineers to appear, Ryanair is investing directly in developing them through partnerships with universities, polytechnics, vocational schools and Part-147 training organisations across the country.

These partnerships are not box-ticking exercises – they are a direct pipeline into high-quality aviation careers with Europe’s No.1 airline. In 2026 alone, Ryanair has welcomed 38 Engineering interns in Portugal, many of which are based in Porto where Ryanair continues to grow its Engineering operation.

As part of our ‘Decade of Growth’ plan to expand to 800 aircraft, Ryanair continues to grow its Engineering footprint. We are committed to developing future talent from an early stage, rather than simply waiting for established professionals to become available in the market, and we currently have opportunities for B1 Engineers, Mechanics and Sheet Metal Workers. We look forward to welcoming even more ambitious Portuguese talent to Ryanair Engineering and continuing to strengthen our position as a key employer in Portugal’s aviation sector.”