Iberia Announced Launch of Sixth Edition of their Cadet Program

In collaboration with FTEJerez airline pilot school, Iberia has opened a new call for candidates for their sixth edition of their pilot cadet program.

Iberia Launches Sixth Edition of Their Pilot Cadet Program in Partnership With FTEJerez - Courtesy Iberia

On Monday (February 23, 2026), Iberia announced the opening of a new edition of their pilot cadet program in partnership with the FTEJerez (Flight Training Europe) airline pilot school. With this initiative, Iberia seeks to promote the profession of pilot, select the most qualified professionals and help finance their training.  Applications will be accepted until March 8, 2026 through Iberia’s employment website.  The Iberia Cadets programme is aimed at young people with no previous experience as pilots who have the vocation, technical capacity and willingness to take on a profession that is as demanding as it is strategic for the future of the aviation sector.  Iberia’s commitment is to facilitate the incorporation of cadets into the labor market through the airlines of the Iberia Group, allowing them to start their professional career.

In Monday’s announcement, Iberia’s Director of Production, Ramiro Sequeira, said,

“With this programme, Iberia reinforces its commitment to young talent and the technical excellence that our operation demands.  In a scenario in which the sector will increasingly need highly qualified professionals, we are committed to identifying and training the new generation of pilots through a rigorous itinerary that is fully aligned with the company’s high standards. Having a partner like FTEJerez, whose experience and training skills are recognised throughout the industry, allows us to guarantee that those who join Iberia will do so with the preparation, attitude and skills necessary to face the present and future challenges of aviation.”

Also commenting on the launch of Iberia’s sixth Cadet Program edition, FTEJerez’ CEO, Óscar Sordo, said,

“The continuity of the cadet programme with Iberia is a sign of the shared commitment to the development of aeronautical talent.  This new edition reinforces the collaboration between both organizations and highlights the moment of growth that commercial aviation is experiencing, opening a promising future for those who are preparing today to lead the sector tomorrow.”

Applicants must meet a series of minimum requirements, including having completed a university degree with the TFG approved at the time of the call, have European nationality or a permanent work permit in Spain, have no criminal record, accredit a minimum level of English B2 and, if they are not Spanish, have a C2 level of Spanish. Candidates must not have sat for ATPL exams and must meet the minimum (157 cm) and maximum (191 cm) height requirements.  The selected candidates will have access to an integrated training program that will allow them to obtain the air transport license (ATPL).  Iberia finances approximately 50 percent of the cost of the training, interest-free, and promotes close monitoring of the cadets’ performance to ensure the highest standards of preparation.

Source: Iberia