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 (ADAC Luftrettung) is Germany’s leading HEMS provider, operating Airbus H135/H145 helicopters nationwide. Pilot selection includes a tailored DLR assessment and new pathways for Nachwuchs helicopter pilots.
DLR Test: ADAC Air Rescue
ADAC Air Rescue uses a DLR aptitude test as stage 1 of its ab‑initio helicopter pilot selection. Conducted on-site in Hamburg, it screens cognitive skills, multitasking and technical basics. Prepare with Easyflight Training’s CBT bundle.
Airline
Aer Lingus
Aer Lingus is Ireland’s flag carrier and part of IAG. From its Dublin hub, with Cork and Shannon services, it links Europe and North America using Airbus A320-family, A321LR and A330 aircraft, offering Avios via AerClub.
Aer Lingus Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
Aer Lingus uses Cut-E / Aon online aptitude tests as Stage 1 for ab-initio and ready entry pilots. Timed modules assess reasoning, attention, working memory and accuracy, often with SJT/personality screens under strict time pressure.
Airline
AeroLogic
AeroLogic is a German all-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 intercontinental services connecting Europe with Asia and North America.
Step 1: AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio – Level 1
AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio Level 1 is stage one of AeroLogic’s ab-initio pilot selection. This on-site Berlin screening can include varied computer-based aptitude tests, including reasoning, memory, attention and technical knowledge.
Step 2: AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio – Level 2
AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio Level 2 is an on-site simulator stage at TFC Käufer in Essen. Applicants fly the Piper PA-44 in pairs; task content can vary, and a failed attempt requires a three-year wait before reapplying.
Step 3: AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio – Level 3
At AeroLogic ALFA Ab-Initio Level 3 in Berlin, candidates complete a small group exercise and interview before a four-person committee. The final selection stage is demanding: the overall pass rate is approximately 15–18%.
Airline
Air Dolomiti
Air Dolomiti is the Lufthansa Group’s Italian airline, based in Verona. It connects Italian cities with Munich and Frankfurt, using Embraer 195 jets and blending Italian hospitality with a broad European network.
DLR: Certificate Cockpit for EFA / LHG (Ab-Initio)
DLR Certificate Cockpit is stage 1 of the EFA and Lufthansa Group ab-initio selection. The on-site test is held in Milan, Hamburg or Zurich in German or English, with Easyflight Training preparation available in both languages.
Airline
American Airlines
American Airlines, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the world’s largest carriers, operating an extensive domestic and international network through major hubs including Dallas/Fort Worth, Charlotte, Miami, Phoenix, and Los Angeles.
American Airlines (AA) Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
American Airlines uses Aon/cut-e online aptitude and psychometric tests as Stage 1 for both ab-initio and ready-entry pilots. Expect short, time-pressured tasks in numerical, verbal, logical, attention, memory, SJT and personality.
Airline
Austrian Airlines
Austrian Airlines is Austria’s flag carrier and a Lufthansa Group airline. From its Vienna hub, it connects Austria with Europe and selected long-haul destinations, combining full-service travel with a strong regional network.
Step 1: DLR: Certificate Cockpit for EFA / LHG (Ab-Initio)
DLR Certificate Cockpit is stage 1 of the EFA and Lufthansa Group ab-initio selection. The on-site test is held in Milan, Hamburg or Zurich in German or English, with Easyflight Training preparation available in both languages.
Step 2: LHG Assessment (Lufthansa Group)
The LHG Assessment is stage 2 of the Lufthansa Group’s European Flight Academy ab-initio pilot selection. Held on site in Hamburg or Zurich, it combines psychological exercises, interview elements and location-specific psychomotor tests.
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 simulator-relevant skills, and covers flight costs on Austrian Airlines.
Step 4: Austrian Future Pilots Program – Stage 4 (Optional)
Austrian Future Pilots Program Stage 4 is an optional, on-site final selection in Vienna: a two-day DLR FQ with group exercise, DCT bridge-loading test and interview. Austrian Airlines covers flight costs; success leads to flight training at EFA.
Flight School
Aviation Academy Austria (AAA)
Aviation Academy Austria (AAA) is a partner of the European Flight Academy providing ab initio ATPL training. Its on-site Basic Qualification Test uses AON/Cut-E tasks, includes the ADEPT-15 personality test, and may include a follow-up interview.
Aviation Academy Austria (AAA) Basic Qualification Test
AAA’s Basic Qualification Test is the first on-site selection stage for prospective ab-initio pilots applying for private ATPL Integrated training. This AON/Cut-E-based assessment is held at the AAA flight academy and usually takes one day.
Airline
Condor
Condor is a German leisure airline based in Frankfurt, operating Airbus A330neo long-haul and Airbus narrowbodies to Europe, North America, the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean. Pilot selection commonly runs via Interpersonal IP-BQ/IP-CQ in Hamburg.
Step 1: IP-BQ (Ab-Initio) for Condor Ab-Initio Program (CAP)
Stage‑1 IP‑BQ for Condor’s Ab‑Initio Program (CAP) is held at Interpersonal in Hamburg and screens math, logic, spatial, memory/attention and English. Only above‑average results and strong application documents usually lead to an IP‑CQ invite.
Step 2: IP-CQ: Corporate Qualification (Cadet Pilot)
Stage 2 of ab-initio pilot selection, IP-CQ assesses psychological suitability through structured interview, group tasks and reflections. Usually held at Interpersonal in Hamburg (locations may vary). Used by airlines such as Condor.
Airline
easyJet
easyJet is a leading European low-cost airline based at London Luton, operating an all-Airbus A320 family fleet from hubs like London Gatwick, Geneva and Milan. It serves 150+ airports across 30+ countries with reliable, efficient service.
easyJet Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
easyJet’s Cut-E / Aon online assessment is stage 1 for ab-initio and ready entry pilots. It features adaptive, time-limited modules testing numerical, verbal, logical, spatial, attention, memory, multitasking and work style.
Airline
Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, operates from Abu Dhabi with a modern A350, 787 and A380 fleet. It serves Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and North America, and recruits pilots via Cut-E/Aon online assessments.
Etihad Airways Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
Master Etihad Airways Cut-E / Aon Online Tests with realistic practice, instant feedback, and performance analysis. Stage 1 for ab-initio and ready entry pilots in a timed, aviation-focused online environment.
Flight School
European Flight Academy (EFA)
European Flight Academy is the Lufthansa Group’s flight school, offering integrated ab-initio ATPL training at Bremen and Grenchen. Selection combines DLR aptitude testing with a Lufthansa Group assessment of interpersonal and psychomotor skills.
Step 1: DLR: Certificate Cockpit for EFA / LHG (Ab-Initio)
DLR Certificate Cockpit is stage 1 of the EFA and Lufthansa Group ab-initio selection. The on-site test is held in Milan, Hamburg or Zurich in German or English, with Easyflight Training preparation available in both languages.
Step 2: LHG Assessment (Lufthansa Group)
The LHG Assessment is stage 2 of the Lufthansa Group’s European Flight Academy ab-initio pilot selection. Held on site in Hamburg or Zurich, it combines psychological exercises, interview elements and location-specific psychomotor tests.
Flight School
FFL Fachschule für Luftfahrzeugführer
FFL Fachschule für Luftfahrzeugführer is associated with Condor’s Ab-Initio Program (CAP). Applicants complete the IP-BQ Ab-Initio assessment at Interpersonal in Hamburg before Condor may invite them to the next selection phase.
IP-BQ (Ab-Initio) for Condor Ab-Initio Program (CAP)
Stage‑1 IP‑BQ for Condor’s Ab‑Initio Program (CAP) is held at Interpersonal in Hamburg and screens math, logic, spatial, memory/attention and English. Only above‑average results and strong application documents usually lead to an IP‑CQ invite.
Airline
Finnair
Finnair is Finland’s flag carrier, operating a modern Airbus fleet from its Helsinki hub. A Oneworld member, it connects Northern Europe with Asia, North America and the Middle East, known for punctuality, safety and Nordic service.
Finnair Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
Finnair uses the Cut-E / Aon online assessment as Stage 1 for both ab-initio and ready entry pilot selection. Timed, adaptive cognitive tests assess reasoning, attention, memory and multitasking in a secure, browser-based environment.
Airline
flydubai
flydubai is Dubai’s fast‑growing low‑cost airline, operating an all‑Boeing 737 fleet from DXB to the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia, the Indian Subcontinent and Europe, with modern cabins, rapid expansion and close connectivity with Emirates.
flydubai Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
flydubai’s Stage 1 selection uses Cut-E / Aon online aptitude tests for both ab-initio and ready entry pilots. Expect fast-paced cognitive tasks in numerical, verbal, logical, spatial, attention and memory, with strict timing.
Airline
German Airways
German Airways is a Cologne-based German charter and ACMI airline in the Zeitfracht Group. Its Embraer E190 fleet serves flexible European operations, while the WingsUp programme provides a pilot pathway for aspiring aviators.
Step 1: German Airways WingsUp – Phase 1
German Airways WingsUp – Phase 1 is an on-site, computer-based selection in Cologne. It evaluates cognitive ability, multitasking, psychomotor skills, English, maths, physics and general knowledge as Stage 1 of the ab‑initio process.
Step 2: German Airways WingsUp – Phase 2
German Airways WingsUp – Phase 2 is the ab‑initio Stage 2 simulator check: a PA‑44 Seminole flight at TFC Käufer in Essen. Candidates demonstrate precision, CRM and capacity in a structured screening of core piloting skills.
Step 3: German Airways WingsUp – Phase 3
German Airways WingsUp – Phase 3 centers on a structured interview and, if scheduled, a short group exercise in Cologne. Expect competency-based questions, motivation and teamwork checks. Used by German Airways for ab-initio selection.
Airline
Iberia
Iberia, Spain’s flag carrier and IAG member, hubs at Madrid-Barajas. It operates an all-Airbus fleet (A320 family, A330, A350) and leads Europe–Latin America links, hiring via Cadet and Ready Entry multi-stage pathways.
Step 1: Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 1
Stage 1 of the Iberia Cadet Program is an online, half-day written theory test covering Math, Physics, Numerical and Verbal Reasoning. Timed tasks assess core aptitude, and a university degree is required to apply.
Step 2: Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 2
Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 2 features the online AON Psychometric Test assessing reasoning, attention, coordination, spatial awareness, multitasking and personality. Train with Easyflight’s matching CBTs for realistic, timed preparation.
Step 3: Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 3
Stage 3 of Iberia’s ab-initio cadet selection is the Group dynamics (group exercise), held on-site at the Iberia campus in Madrid, assessing teamwork, communication, problem-solving and behavior in collaborative tasks.
Step 4: Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 4
Stage 4 of the Iberia Cadet Program is a Personal interview to test your English level. Conducted online with the FREJerez team, this English-language session evaluates communication, accuracy, and confidence for ab‑initio candidates.
Step 5: Iberia Cadet Program – Stage 5
Stage 5 of the Iberia Cadet Program is the Final interview in Madrid. At Iberia HQ, HR and flight-ops leaders assess motivation, values alignment, teamwork, safety mindset, English, and basic technical awareness for ab‑initio pilots.
Airline
Luxair
Luxair is Luxembourg’s national airline, based at Luxembourg Airport. It links the Grand Duchy with European business centres and leisure destinations, operating Boeing 737 and Dash 8 aircraft and developing pilot talent through its cadet programme.
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 are shortlisted from their application before invitation and complete computer-based aptitude and knowledge tests.
Step 2: Luxair Pilot Cadet Program (Ab-Initio) – Stage 2: DLR FQ
Luxair’s Ab-Initio Stage 2 uses the DLR FQ: a two-day, psychology-led assessment in English at DLR Hamburg covering structured interview, group exercise/debate, reflections, the DCT stress test, and, where applicable, a brief simulator task.
Airline
Police Helicopter (Germany)
German police helicopter aviation is a public-safety service, not a commercial airline. Cadet applicants for the German Police Helicopter Squadron face a DLR assessment in Hamburg before specialist training for demanding airborne police duties.
DLR Test: German Police Helicopter Squadron Cadet Program
The DLR Test for the German Police Helicopter Squadron is stage 1 of the ab-initio pilot selection process, held on site at DLR in Hamburg. It evaluates cognitive, technical and psychomotor abilities for police helicopter pilot training.
Flight School
RWL German Flight Academy
RWL German Flight Academy trains EASA airline pilots in Mönchengladbach, Germany, with modern aircraft, simulators, and structured ATPL programs. The school accepts the DLR Certificate Cockpit for selection, including EFA/Lufthansa Group applicants.
DLR: Certificate Cockpit for EFA / LHG (Ab-Initio)
DLR Certificate Cockpit is stage 1 of the EFA and Lufthansa Group ab-initio selection. The on-site test is held in Milan, Hamburg or Zurich in German or English, with Easyflight Training preparation available in both languages.
Airline
Ryanair
Ryanair is Europe’s largest low-cost airline, operating an all‑Boeing 737 fleet from dozens of bases across Europe and North Africa. It focuses on high-frequency, point‑to‑point routes, reliable on‑time performance and efficient operations.
Ryanair Future Flyer Academy (Irish Low-Cost Carrier)
Ryanair Future Flyer Academy Gateway 0 starts with a home-based AON/Cut-E online test, identical for AFTA, Aviomar, Astonfly, Bartolini Air and Skyborne. Further selection steps may include online interviews and on-site assessments.
Flight School
Speedbird Pilot Academy (British Airways)
British Airways’ Speedbird Pilot Academy is a fully funded UK cadet route from zero experience to the BA flight deck. Highly competitive intakes use Aon/Cut‑E online tests, interviews and assessments to select future First Officers.
Speedbird Pilot Academy Cut-E / Aon Online Tests
British Airways’ Speedbird Pilot Academy uses Aon/Cut‑E online psychometric tests as Stage 1 of ab‑initio selection, assessing reasoning, attention, multi‑tasking and behaviour through timed modules completed remotely.
Flight School
TFC Käufer
TFC Käufer is a German EASA ATO offering integrated ATPL(A), modular ratings and MCC/APS MCC on modern aircraft and simulators. The school follows airline-oriented syllabi and accepts the DLR Certificate Cockpit as assessment for entry.
DLR: Certificate Cockpit for EFA / LHG (Ab-Initio)
DLR Certificate Cockpit is stage 1 of the EFA and Lufthansa Group ab-initio selection. The on-site test is held in Milan, Hamburg or Zurich in German or English, with Easyflight Training preparation available in both languages.
Airline
Wizz Air
Headquartered in Budapest, Wizz Air is a fast-growing Central and Eastern European ultra-low-cost carrier operating an all-Airbus A320 family fleet across 50+ countries, with bases from Budapest to Abu Dhabi and a structured WAPA cadet pathway.
Step 1: Wizz Air Pilot Academy (WAPA) – Stage 1
Stage 1 of Wizz Air Pilot Academy uses TestAir 360 Screening online, assessing reasoning and logic, math and physics, and English. Practice opens after application with a $130 fee. Real tests are tougher, so professional preparation is recommended.
Step 2: Wizz Air Pilot Academy (WAPA) – Stage 2
Online psychological assessment for Wizz Air Pilot Academy Stage 2, supervised on Microsoft Teams. Expect hundreds of standardized questions plus a short interview, profiling traits, resilience, teamwork and cockpit suitability.
Step 3: Wizz Air Pilot Academy (WAPA) – Stage 3
Stage 3 of the Wizz Air Pilot Academy is an on-site group exercise at the Wizz Air Training Center in Budapest, scheduled the same day as Stage 4 interviews. Prepare teamwork, leadership, and communication; combine Stage 3+4 prep for best results.
Step 4: Wizz Air Pilot Academy (WAPA) – Stage 4
Stage 4 of the Wizz Air Pilot Academy is held on-site at the Wizz Air Training Center in Budapest and takes place the same day as Stage 3. The focus is a final individual interview covering personal fit, aviation basics, motivation, and mental math.
