AEROITALIA CADET PROGRAM

From the partnership between Aeroitalia, Aeroitalia Aviation Academy, and Urbe Aero Flight Academy comes the unique ATPL Cadet Programme designed to select, train, and launch the airline pilots of the future.

Why choose this programme?

• Integrated pathway: comprehensive ab initio training up to obtaining the commercial pilot licence and type ratings.
• Airline experience: opportunity for operational entry into Aeroitalia up to reaching the first 500 flight hours on Boeing 737 NG and MAX.
• State-of-the-art tools: practical training at Urbe Aero with a modern digital fleet and ENAC-certified B737 MAX FNPT II flight simulator.
• Continuous monitoring: a constant mentoring process jointly managed by Urbe Aero and Aeroitalia Aviation Academy ensuring the highest standard of training.

The two entry pathways

To meet candidates at different stages of their training, the partnership offers two entry channels dedicated to Urbe Aero students:

1. ATPL Cadet Programme (Ab Initio)

Dedicated to those starting from scratch who want to undertake the full training pathway to become a commercial pilot.

• Phase 1 – Joint selection: Online psychometric tests (Symbiotics ADAPT), group exercises, and an in-person motivational interview.
• Phase 2 – Integrated ATPL: theoretical and practical training held entirely at Urbe Aero Flight Academy.
• Phase 3 – Advanced Training & Type Rating: APS MCC and Type Rating modules managed in close coordination with Aeroitalia Aviation Academy.
• Phase 4 – Operational entry: scheduled entry into the airline up to achieving the first 500 flight hours on Boeing 737.

2. Urbe Aero Candidate Pipeline (APS MCC + Type Rating)

Reserved for those who already hold an ATPL licence (or are in the advanced stages of completing it at Urbe Aero) and wish to access qualification directly for the Aeroitalia fleet.

• Selection: ATPL performance evaluation, Symbiotics ADAPT test, group exercises, and individual interview.
• Training: APS MCC course on B737 MAX FNPT II simulator followed by Type Rating under the direct supervision of Aeroitalia Aviation Academy.

Selection Process

The joint selection process guarantees compliance with the high standards required by the airline and is structured into 3 phases:

1. Online aptitude assessment: psychometric and suitability tests via the Symbiotics ADAPT platform.
2. Group Exercise: group tests to evaluate teamwork skills, communication, and problem-solving.
3. Individual Interview: motivational and personal interview at Aeroitalia Aviation Academy headquarters.

FAQ

Who can apply for the ATPL Cadet Programme?

The ab initio programme is open to all young aviation enthusiasts who have completed secondary education (high school diploma or equivalent), with good proficiency in English and a Class 1 medical fitness certificate issued by an authorized aero-medical centre.

Is previous flight experience required to participate?

No, the ATPL Cadet Programme requires no previous flight experience: the course starts from scratch (ab initio) and will guide you all the way to the cockpit. If you have already completed or are completing your ATPL pathway, you can apply for the Candidate Pipeline (APS MCC + Type Rating).

How are the selection tests conducted?

The selection process is jointly managed by Urbe Aero and Aeroitalia Aviation Academy. It comprises three main phases:

1. Online psychometric tests via the Symbiotics ADAPT suite;
2. Group Exercise to evaluate teamwork capabilities and stress management;
3. In-person motivational and assessment interview.

When will selections open and how do I apply?

Applications and selections will open soon (TBD). It will be possible to submit your application directly via the application form on this website.

Where will theoretical and practical lessons take place?

Theoretical training and practical flight instruction will take place at the Urbe Aero Flight Academy headquarters at Rome Urbe Airport. Subsequent advanced phases (Type Rating & Line Training) will be held at the Aeroitalia Aviation Academy.

What happens at the end of the training pathway?

Cadets who maintain high performance standards throughout the training programme will be guided toward operational entry into Aeroitalia, with an initial programme aimed at achieving the first 500 flight hours on Boeing 737.