Finding the right ab-initio and cadet pilot program is your first step toward becoming an airline pilot. Discover all current airline and flight school programs, their selection steps, and how to prepare for each phase.
Ab-Initio programs are entry-level training pathways for candidates without previous flight experience, leading directly to a commercial pilot license (ATPL) and airline qualification.
Airline
ADAC Air Rescue
ADAC Air Rescue is the ADAC Luftrettung helicopter emergency medical service, operating Airbus H135 and H145 helicopters from a nationwide German base network for rapid emergency care and urgent patient transfers with specialist medical crews.
DLR Test: ADAC Air Rescue
ADAC Air Rescue uses the DLR Test as stage 1 of its ab-initio helicopter-pilot selection. Candidates complete computer-based aptitude tasks that assess cognitive, perceptual and coordination skills before progressing in the process.
Airline
Aer Lingus
Aer Lingus is Ireland’s flag carrier and an IAG airline, based at Dublin Airport. It connects Ireland with the UK, continental Europe and North America, using Airbus narrow-body and wide-body aircraft for short-haul and long-haul services.
Aer Lingus Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
Aer Lingus uses Cut-E / Aon online tests at stage 1 of both ab-initio and ready-entry pilot selection. Candidates complete timed cognitive assessments online, where preparation can build familiarity, speed, accuracy and confidence.
Airline
AeroLogic
AeroLogic is a German cargo airline based at Leipzig/Halle Airport. Founded in 2007 as a DHL Express and Lufthansa Cargo joint venture, it operates Boeing 777 freighters on long-haul express routes linking Europe with major global markets.
Step 1: AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio – Level 1
AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio – Level 1 is the first stage of the ab-initio pilot selection process. The on-site Berlin screening may include varied tests, with preparation informed by extensive AeroLogic candidate feedback.
Step 2: AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio – Level 2
Stage 2 of AeroLogic’s ALFA ab-initio selection is held at TFC Käufer in Essen and includes a Piper PA-44 simulator flight. Applicants test in pairs; tasks can vary, and unsuccessful candidates must wait three years before reapplying.
Step 3: AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio – Level 3
AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio Level 3 is the final selection stage in Berlin, combining a small group exercise and interview. Prepare for a demanding committee decision, then move towards AeroLogic’s cadet training and an airline career.
Airline
Air Dolomiti
Air Dolomiti, the Lufthansa Group’s Italian regional airline, was founded in 1989, is headquartered in Verona and operates Embraer 195 jets linking Italian cities with Munich and Frankfurt under the EN code.
DLR: Certificate Cockpit for EFA / LHG (Ab-Initio)
DLR Certificate Cockpit is stage 1 of the ab-initio pilot selection process for European Flight Academy and Lufthansa Group pathways. It is taken on site in Milan, Hamburg or Zurich and is available in German or English.
Airline
American Airlines
American Airlines, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, is a major carrier and founding member of oneworld. Its hubs connect passengers across the United States, the Americas, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean through a mainline and regional network.
American Airlines (AA) Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
American Airlines uses Cut-E / Aon online tests at stage 1 of its ab-initio and ready-entry pilot selection processes. The assessment evaluates key aptitude and psychometric capabilities before later recruitment stages.
Airline
Austrian Airlines
Austrian Airlines is Austria’s flag carrier and a Lufthansa Group airline, based at Vienna International Airport. It connects Vienna with European and long-haul destinations through a mixed Airbus, Boeing and Embraer fleet.
Step 1: DLR: Certificate Cockpit for EFA / LHG (Ab-Initio)
DLR Certificate Cockpit is stage 1 of the ab-initio pilot selection process for European Flight Academy and Lufthansa Group pathways. It is taken on site in Milan, Hamburg or Zurich and is available in German or English.
Step 2: LHG Assessment (Lufthansa Group)
The LHG Assessment is stage 2 of the ab-initio pilot selection process for the European Flight Academy and Austrian Airlines. It combines psychological exercises and psychomotor tasks in Hamburg or Zurich.
Step 3: Austrian Future Pilots Program – Stage 3 (Optional)
Stage 3 is an optional PIT simulator screening in Vienna for applicants to the Austrian Future Pilots Program. Austrian Airlines assesses coordination, multitasking and pilot-relevant skills; flight costs are covered on Austrian Airlines flights.
Step 4: Austrian Future Pilots Program – Stage 4 (Optional)
Optional Stage 4 of the ab-initio selection process is a two-day DLR FQ in Vienna, with a group exercise, bridge-loading test and interview. Austrian Airlines covers flight costs on its flights; successful candidates proceed to EFA training.
Flight School
Aviation Academy Austria (AAA)
Aviation Academy Austria (AAA) in Wiener Neustadt provides integrated ATPL training as a European Flight Academy partner. Its on-site Basic Qualification Test uses AON-style aptitude testing for prospective ab-initio pilots.
Aviation Academy Austria (AAA) Basic Qualification Test
Prepare for Aviation Academy Austria’s on-site Basic Qualification Test, stage one for private ATPL Integrated training. This AON-style assessment for ab-initio pilots is usually completed in one day, with an interview sometimes held on day two.
Airline
Condor
Condor is a Frankfurt-based German leisure airline founded in 1955. It connects Germany with holiday destinations across Europe, Africa, North America and the Caribbean, operating a modern short- and long-haul Airbus fleet.
Step 1: IP-BQ (Ab-Initio) for Condor Ab-Initio Program (CAP)
Condor CAP uses the IP-BQ Ab-Initio as its on-site first selection stage at Interpersonal in Hamburg. Candidates are assessed in relevant aptitude areas; a pass alone does not guarantee an invitation to the next Condor stage.
Step 2: IP-CQ: Corporate Qualification (Cadet Pilot)
IP-CQ Corporate Qualification is stage two of the ab-initio pilot selection process. It focuses on psychological evaluation and is usually held at Interpersonal in Hamburg for programmes such as Condor CAP, although the venue may change.
Airline
easyJet
easyJet is a UK-based low-cost airline headquartered at London Luton Airport. Operating an all-Airbus fleet, it links major European cities and holiday destinations through a high-frequency, point-to-point network.
easyJet Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
easyJet uses Cut-E / Aon online tests at stage 1 of both its ab-initio and ready-entry pilot selection processes. The online assessment evaluates candidates’ ability to work accurately, efficiently and consistently in a timed digital testing environment.
Airline
Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline, is based at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport. Founded in 2003, it links Abu Dhabi with Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and North America using Airbus and Boeing aircraft on global routes.
Etihad Airways Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
Etihad Airways uses Cut-E / Aon online tests at stage 1 of both ab-initio and ready entry pilot selection, assessing candidates remotely before later recruitment stages. Structured practice builds speed, familiarity and confidence.
Flight School
European Flight Academy (EFA)
European Flight Academy is the Lufthansa Group’s flight school for future commercial pilots, offering integrated training at Bremen, Grenchen and Goodyear after a structured DLR and Lufthansa Group selection process.
Step 1: DLR: Certificate Cockpit for EFA / LHG (Ab-Initio)
DLR Certificate Cockpit is stage 1 of the ab-initio pilot selection process for European Flight Academy and Lufthansa Group pathways. It is taken on site in Milan, Hamburg or Zurich and is available in German or English.
Step 2: LHG Assessment (Lufthansa Group)
The LHG Assessment is stage 2 of the ab-initio pilot selection process for the European Flight Academy and Austrian Airlines. It combines psychological exercises and psychomotor tasks in Hamburg or Zurich.
Flight School
FFL Fachschule für Luftfahrzeugführer
FFL Fachschule für Luftfahrzeugführer is a German pilot-training provider associated with the Condor Ab-Initio Program (CAP). Its known screening route includes the IP-BQ, where above-average performance and application documents shape progression.
IP-BQ (Ab-Initio) for Condor Ab-Initio Program (CAP)
Condor CAP uses the IP-BQ Ab-Initio as its on-site first selection stage at Interpersonal in Hamburg. Candidates are assessed in relevant aptitude areas; a pass alone does not guarantee an invitation to the next Condor stage.
Airline
Finnair
Finnair, Finland’s flag carrier, is a Helsinki-based network airline linking Finland and Northern Europe with destinations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North America. A oneworld member, it operates through Helsinki Airport.
Finnair Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
Finnair uses Cut-E / Aon online tests at stage 1 of both ab-initio and ready-entry pilot selection. Candidates complete online aptitude testing before later selection stages, with preparation focused on speed, accuracy and consistent performance.
Airline
flydubai
flydubai is Dubai’s government-owned low-cost airline, flying Boeing 737s from Dubai to destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Central Asia and South Asia. The carrier began operations in 2009.
flydubai Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
flydubai uses Cut-E / Aon online tests at stage 1 of its ab-initio and ready-entry pilot selection processes. Candidates complete cognitive assessments remotely, where speed, accuracy and consistent performance are key.
Airline
German Airways
German Airways is a Cologne-based operator with roots in WDL Aviation, flying Embraer E190 aircraft on charter, ACMI/wet-lease and selected scheduled services. Its WingsUp programme offers a pathway for aspiring airline pilots.
Step 1: German Airways WingsUp – Phase 1
German Airways WingsUp – Phase 1 is the on-site first stage of the ab-initio pilot selection process in Cologne. It assesses cognitive ability, multitasking and psychomotor skills, plus English, mathematics, physics and general knowledge.
Step 2: German Airways WingsUp – Phase 2
German Airways WingsUp Phase 2 is an on-site PA-44 Seminole simulator flight at TFC Käufer in Essen. Used as Stage 2 of the ab-initio pilot selection, it focuses on simulator readiness and structured aircraft handling.
Step 3: German Airways WingsUp – Phase 3
German Airways WingsUp Phase 3 is the on-site final stage of the ab-initio pilot selection process in Cologne, combining an interview and, where scheduled, a group exercise to assess communication, motivation and personal fit.
Airline
Iberia
Iberia is Spain’s flag carrier, a founding member of oneworld and part of International Airlines Group. From Madrid-Barajas, it links Spain and Europe with an extensive long-haul network, led by Latin America and operated with Airbus aircraft.
Step 1: Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 1
Prepare for Iberia Cadet Program Stage 1, an online half-day written theory test in the ab-initio pilot selection process. Practise Mathematics, Physics, Numerical Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning with focused Easyflight Training resources.
Step 2: Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 2
Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 2 is an online AON Psychometric Test in the ab-initio pilot selection process. Timed aptitude exercises may assess reasoning, attention, coordination, spatial skills and personal suitability.
Step 3: Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 3
Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 3 is an on-site group dynamics (group exercise) assessment at the Iberia campus in Madrid, used in the ab-initio pilot selection process. Prepare with focused guidance for communication, teamwork and self-presentation.
Step 4: Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 4
Iberia Cadet Program Stage 4 is an online personal interview with the FREJerez team, conducted in English to assess your English level. It forms part of Iberia’s ab-initio pilot selection process and calls for focused aviation-English preparation.
Step 5: Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 5
Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 5 is the final interview in the airline’s ab-initio pilot selection process. It takes place at Iberia headquarters in Madrid and focuses on a candidate’s motivation, communication and professional fit.
Airline
Luxair
Luxair is Luxembourg’s national airline, based at Luxembourg Airport and serving European business and leisure destinations with a mixed Boeing, Dash 8 and Embraer fleet. Its Pilot Cadet Program uses English-language DLR selection stages.
Step 1: Luxair Pilot Cadet Program (Ab-Initio) – Stage 1: DLR BU
Stage 1 of Luxair’s ab-initio Pilot Cadet Program is the English-language DLR BU in Hamburg. Candidates complete aptitude tests covering cognitive, psychomotor and aviation-relevant skills before progressing in the selection process.
Step 2: Luxair Pilot Cadet Program (Ab-Initio) – Stage 2: DLR FQ
Luxair uses the DLR FQ as stage 2 of its ab-initio pilot cadet selection. This English-language, on-site psychological qualification assesses candidates’ self-presentation, teamwork, communication and interview readiness.
Airline
Police Helicopter (Germany)
German police helicopter operations are run by state police aviation units, not one commercial airline. Cadet applicants for the German Police Helicopter Squadron complete a DLR assessment at DLR in Hamburg.
DLR Test: German Police Helicopter Squadron Cadet Program
Stage 1 of the German Police Helicopter Squadron’s ab-initio pilot selection takes place at DLR Hamburg. It evaluates cognitive, technical, perceptual, memory, spatial and psychomotor abilities for Police Helicopter (Germany) candidates.
Flight School
RWL German Flight Academy
RWL German Flight Academy is an Approved Training Organisation at Mönchengladbach Airport, offering airline-pilot training from first flight through ATPL theory and practical licence modules in a professional aviation setting.
DLR: Certificate Cockpit for EFA / LHG (Ab-Initio)
DLR Certificate Cockpit is stage 1 of the ab-initio pilot selection process for European Flight Academy and Lufthansa Group pathways. It is taken on site in Milan, Hamburg or Zurich and is available in German or English.
Airline
Ryanair
Ryanair is a Dublin-based Irish low-fare airline group flying a predominantly Boeing fleet on a high-frequency network of more than 200 destinations across Europe and nearby markets. It offers pilot pathways from cadet training to ready-entry roles.
Ryanair Future Flyer Academy (Irish Low-Cost Carrier)
Ryanair Future Flyer Academy Gateway 0 begins with the same online Cut-E / AON assessment, taken at home after applying through a certified partner flight school. One bundle supports aptitude, English and possible later selection stages.
Flight School
Speedbird Pilot Academy (British Airways)
British Airways’ Speedbird Pilot Academy is a fully funded UK cadet pathway for aspiring commercial pilots. Selected applicants complete professional flight training and, after meeting all required standards, can progress towards a British Airways pilot career.
Speedbird Pilot Academy Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
Stage 1 of the Speedbird Pilot Academy ab-initio selection process uses Cut-E / Aon online tests. This bundle provides realistic practice, instant feedback and performance analysis to help applicants improve speed, accuracy and confidence.
Flight School
TFC Käufer
TFC Käufer is a German flight school based at Essen/Mülheim Airport, providing ab-initio and modular EASA pilot training. For its admissions route, the school accepts the DLR Certificate Cockpit for EFA/LHG as recognised assessment evidence.
DLR: Certificate Cockpit for EFA / LHG (Ab-Initio)
DLR Certificate Cockpit is stage 1 of the ab-initio pilot selection process for European Flight Academy and Lufthansa Group pathways. It is taken on site in Milan, Hamburg or Zurich and is available in German or English.
Airline
Wizz Air
Wizz Air is a Hungarian ultra-low-cost airline group founded in 2003. From bases across Europe and the Middle East, it flies an Airbus fleet on an extensive short-haul network, with a strong presence in Central and Eastern Europe.
Step 1: Wizz Air Pilot Academy (WAPA) – Stage 1
Wizz Air Pilot Academy Stage 1 is an online TestAir 360 screening for ab-initio applicants. It evaluates reasoning and logic, mathematics, physics and English, providing an early measure of the academic and cognitive skills needed for pilot training.
Step 2: Wizz Air Pilot Academy (WAPA) – Stage 2
Wizz Air Pilot Academy Stage 2 is an online psychological assessment for ab-initio pilot candidates. Usually supervised via Microsoft Teams, it includes hundreds of psychological questions and explores suitability for pilot training.
Step 3: Wizz Air Pilot Academy (WAPA) – Stage 3
Wizz Air Pilot Academy (WAPA) Stage 3 is an on-site group exercise in Budapest for ab-initio pilot applicants. It runs on the same day as Stage 4, making combined preparation for the group exercise and interview highly recommended.
Step 4: Wizz Air Pilot Academy (WAPA) – Stage 4
Wizz Air Pilot Academy Stage 4 is the final individual interview at the Wizz Air Training Center in Budapest. Held on the same day as Stage 3, it assesses motivation, personal fit, aviation basics and mental-math skills.
