Airlines Hiring Non-Type Rated First Officers in 2026

Opportunities for Low-Hour and Newly Licensed Pilots

For newly licensed commercial pilots, one of the biggest challenges entering the airline industry is securing the first airline job without an aircraft type rating. Fortunately, several airlines and cadet programs in 2026 continue to recruit non-type rated First Officers, providing type rating training after hiring.

These programs represent one of the most important pathways for pilots with Frozen ATPL licences and relatively low flight hours.

Below are some of the airlines and programs currently offering opportunities for non-type rated pilots.

Wizz Air – A320 Cadet First Officer Pathway

One of the most visible opportunities for non-type rated pilots is offered by Wizz Air through its cadet pilot pathways.

The airline recruits cadet-level First Officers and provides Airbus A320 type rating training after selection. Candidates typically need a Frozen ATPL licence, Class 1 medical and English proficiency, but a type rating is not required at the time of application.

Wizz Air continues expanding its fleet and aims to operate hundreds of aircraft across Europe in the coming years, creating ongoing demand for new pilots.

LOT Polish Airlines – Cadet Pilot Recruitment

LOT Polish Airlines also offers cadet-level recruitment opportunities for pilots without a type rating.

Applicants may be considered with around 200 hours total flight time and a Frozen ATPL licence, with type rating training provided as part of the program.

These programs are designed specifically to help low-time pilots transition into multi-crew airline operations.

Lufthansa Group – European Flight Academy Cadet Program

The Lufthansa Group continues to operate one of the most structured airline cadet pathways through the European Flight Academy.

The program trains pilots from initial selection through airline employment within Lufthansa Group carriers after completing training and assessments.

Cadet programs like this remain one of the most reliable pathways for pilots entering the airline industry without previous jet experience.

TUI Airways – MPL Cadet Program

Another pathway for inexperienced pilots is offered through the MPL cadet program operated by TUI Airways.

The Multi-Crew Pilot Licence program trains candidates from early experience levels and prepares them specifically for airline operations on Boeing 737 aircraft.

Although highly competitive, MPL programs provide a structured pathway directly into airline operations.

Middle East Cadet Pathways

Several Middle Eastern airlines also operate cadet programs for pilots with little or no airline experience.

For example, Emirates operates a national cadet pilot programme designed to train new pilots from early stages of training toward airline operations.

These programs often involve airline-sponsored training followed by structured progression into First Officer roles.

Why Cadet Programs Are Growing in 2026

The aviation industry continues to face long-term pilot shortages in certain regions, particularly as older pilots retire and airline fleets expand.

Because of this, airlines increasingly invest in training pipelines and cadet programs, allowing them to develop pilots internally rather than relying entirely on experienced recruits.

These programs allow airlines to train pilots according to their own operational procedures and standards.

What Airlines Expect from Low-Experience Candidates

Even though type ratings may not be required initially, airlines still evaluate candidates carefully.

Common requirements include:

• Frozen ATPL licence (EASA or equivalent)• Multi-engine instrument rating• MCC or APS MCC training• Class 1 medical certificate• Strong English communication skills

Selection processes often include aptitude tests, technical interviews, simulator assessments and HR interviews.

Outlook for Aspiring Airline Pilots

For newly licensed pilots in 2026, opportunities exist — but competition remains high.

Cadet programs and non-type rated First Officer positions are often the most accessible entry points into airline flying. Candidates who prepare early for airline assessments and technical interviews significantly improve their chances of securing a position.

As airline fleets continue to expand globally, these training pipelines will remain a key gateway for the next generation of airline pilots.