Wizz Air to train 1,200 pilots by 2028, including 240 in the UK

Low-cost carrier Wizz Air said it will train 1,200 new pilots by 2028, including 240 who will be based in the United Kingdom, as part of a broader expansion of its fleet and route network across Europe. The airline said the programme is open to applicants without prior flying experience and is aimed at both aviation enthusiasts and people seeking a career change.

Wizz Air said the selection process for its Pilot Academy typically takes around six months, followed by approximately two years of flight training. Trainees will receive structured ground school education and simulator instruction before progressing to training on real aircraft. The airline said candidates need strong communication and problem solving skills but do not need previous flying qualifications to apply.

The recruitment drive is linked to Wizz Air's longer-term growth target of operating 500 aircraft by 2030. The carrier currently employs about 2,800 pilots, including more than 250 in the UK, and said the new intake will help staff its planned fleet expansion. The programme will also extend recruitment into Ireland for the first time, the company added.

"Our commitment to training 1,200 new pilots, within the...