United Airlines Opens Flight Training School at Phoenix Goodyear Airport

(02 Feb 2022)  United Airlines officially opened a 340,000 square-foot flight training school at Phoenix Goodyear Airport, last week.

The airline plans to hire at least 10,000 new pilots by 2030, with about 5,000 of those coming from the United Aviate Academy.

"Our pilots are the best in the industry and have set a high standard of excellence," said United Chief Executive Officer, Scott Kirby. "Recruiting and training even more people who have that same level of talent, motivation and skill is the right thing to do and will make us an even better airline. I couldn't be prouder of this first group of students and look forward to meeting the thousands of talented individuals who will pass through these doors in the years to come."

United plans to hire at least 10,000 new pilots by 2030, with about 5,000 of those coming from the United Aviate Academy

Earning a commercial pilot's license in the U.S. can cost about $100,000 and becoming an Airline Transport Pilot requires 1,500 hours of flight time, which requires a significant commitment.

United currently has about 12,000 pilots, and Captains of United's Boeing 787s and 777s can earn more than $350,000 per year. In addition, United pilots receive one of the highest 401(k) matches in the nation – 16% of base pay.

United Aviate Academy expects to train at least 500 students annually as one part of United recruiting as the carrier works toward hiring at least 10,000 pilots by 2030.

Aviation consulting firm Oliver Wyman estimates a worldwide pilot shortage of 34,000 aviators by 2025.

"As a United pilot for more than 32 years, it's exciting to see these new students earning their wings and beginning their aviation careers, and I'm looking forward to them joining me on the flight deck one day," said United Chief Pilot, Mary Ann Schaffer. "We need more pilots and a more diverse pool of young aviators, and United Aviate Academy will help us achieve both goals."

The United Aviate Academy facility features:

- A leased fleet of late-model Cirrus SR-20 series single-engine aircraft;

- Nearly 50,000 square feet of office space;

- Multiple aircraft hangars;

- Dormitory rooms for student housing with ample room for expansion;

- Proximity to many auxiliary airfields in the Phoenix area; and

- Favorable weather for year-round flight training.

United and JPMorgan Chase & Co. have renewed last year's commitment to fund nearly $2.4 million in scholarships for future aviators attending United Aviate Academy.