Learn to fly at one of our Aviate partner universities

The partner university process — Details and requirements below

Step 1Meet minimum eligibility requirements

  • Working toward or graduated with at least one of the following from an Aviate university partner:
  • Completed at least two semesters of full-time coursework at an Aviate university partner
  • Be in good standing with your university and uphold their student code of conduct
  • Hold a minimum of a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating
  • Must have a legal right to work in the United States without sponsorship
  • Must be able to travel freely within the United States and without restriction to all destinations United serves
  • Hold a valid FAA medical certificate that was originally issued as a first- or second-class medical certificate

Step 2Apply to Aviate

When you join Aviate, you’ll gain access to:

  • A direct path. Aviate participants can transition to United as a First Officer upon successful completion of the Aviate program and hiring requirements
  • Travel privileges. Aviate participants enjoy travel privileges to United destinations around the world
  • Coaching. Aviate participants will have the opportunity to participate in a coaching program and receive mentorship from United pilots
  • Culture. You’ll gain deeper connections with our United team, with access to senior leadership, site visits and tours, and an inside look at our inclusive culture

Submit an application

Apply now

Complete the selection process, which includes:

  • A panel interview
  • Personality and cultural fit inventory
  • A technical skill interview

Step 3Build toward your R-ATP certification

Build toward R-ATP minimum of 1,000 hours.

While we have many quality partners where you can gain valuable experience, you can also work as a commercial pilot at another operator, instruct at your local airport or build hours in any other manner that you would like. Our partners include:

Step 4Fly with an Aviate United Express carrier or Part 135 operator

Flying with our Aviate-participating United Express (UAX) carriers or Part 135 operators provides invaluable flying experience.

Secure your path to a United First Officer position by completing 1,200 PIC (Pilot in Command) hours with an Aviate-participating UAX carrier or Part 135 operator.

For full details, see Chapter 5 of the APG.

Step 5Transition to United as a First Officer

Once minimum transition requirements are complete and are met, you’ll be eligible to transition to United as a First Officer.

You must also meet the following to be eligible for transition:

  • Current passport with at least six-months of validity remaining at time of employment
  • Legal right to work in the United States without sponsorship
  • Must be able to travel freely within the United States and without restriction to all countries United serves
  • Meet all additional First Officer hiring requirements

You will be assigned a First Officer class date and start at United within four (4) months of meeting the PIC hours requirement.

Any questions?

Full details regarding Aviate eligibility and transition requirements can be found in the Aviate Program Guide (APG). For questions not covered in the APG, please provide your information and question in the space provided, and we’ll get back to you soon.