Apply as a student at a partner university
The earliest opportunity to gain admission to the AviateSM program is to apply while at university. If your dream is to become a United Captain, get started on this path.
We’re looking for talented candidates who:
- Reflect our leadership qualities, including the ability to model character, think creatively, deliver results and foster teamwork
- Share our commitment to the principles of core4 service behaviors: Safe, Caring, Dependable and Efficient
- Demonstrate a passion for the industry and a lifelong dedication to excellence and achievement
Aviate’s partner universities announced soon
Your process
Details and requirements
Step 1
Meet minimum eligibility requirements
- Complete two semesters of full-time coursework at a partner university Get notified when they’re announced
- Pursue approved aviation major, resulting in R-ATP eligibility
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and uphold your university’s student code of conduct
- Hold a minimum of a Private Pilot Certificate
Step 2
Apply
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Submit an application along with a written letter of recommendation from a leader in your university flight program
- Applications opening early 2020
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Complete the selection process, which includes:
- A panel interview
- Personality and cultural fit assessments
- A technical skill interview
When you join Aviate, you’ll immediately gain access to:
- A direct path to United. Aviate participants 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 hundreds of United destinations
- Coaching. Aviate participants are paired with United pilots, creating a structured format for critical leadership and career development
- Aviate pilot leadership program. Aviate participants are equipped to become future United Captains through leadership, business acumen and decision-making skills development
- Development events and programs. Aviate participants are provided a breadth of resources to learn and grow throughout Aviate
- United leadership interaction. Aviate participants are key to our future and have opportunities to meet senior leadership and United Captains
- Site tours. Aviate participants have opportunities to visit and tour our advanced and complex operational facilities
Step 3
Build toward your R-ATP Certification
- Gain valuable experience teaching as a CFI at an Aviate university partner
- Build toward R-ATP minimum of 1,000 hours
Step 4
Fly with a United Express® partner
Gain invaluable experience flying with one of our United Express Aviate partners, which include:
- Enjoy expedited time in service with Aviate: minimum service requirements of 2,000 flight hours and 24 months with a United Express Aviate partner
Step 5
Transition to United as a First Officer
- Once you complete your minimum transition requirements with United Express, you’ll be eligible to transition to United as a First Officer
- When a First Officer position opens with United and you’re at the top of the priority list, you’ll receive a job offer
- The sooner you apply to the Aviate program, the higher priority you’ll have for a quicker transition from United Express to United
- Once you join United as a First Officer, begin your dream career toward the left seat in the cockpit as a United Captain
Any questions?
We’re here to address any questions you may have. Please provide your information and question in the space provided, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
