77 Cadets Graduate from Emirates Flight Training Academy, Ready to Soar

After months of intensive training, 77 cadets celebrated their successful graduation at the Emirates Flight Training Academy’s (EFTA) sixth ceremony. This milestone adds to EFTA’s growing record of producing highly skilled pilots, with over 300 cadets having graduated to date.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline & Group, led the ceremony. He praised the graduates, saying they now carry the responsibility of connecting the world, upholding the highest safety standards, and shaping the future of aviation. “Each graduate today is a testament to potential and perseverance. Congratulations, graduates – you have made us proud,” he said.

Among the graduates, 52 are part of the UAE National Pilot Cadet Programme (NCPP), while 25 come from 15 other countries. Over the past five years, most EFTA graduates have gone on to fly or train with Emirates on its widebody aircraft fleet.

The NCPP is the UAE’s largest initiative of its kind, designed to develop future generations of Emirati pilots. Fully sponsored by Emirates, NCPP cadets follow a clear path from training to flying with the airline after completing their type rating.

EFTA combines academic learning, modern flight technology, and leadership development to train pilots capable of operating sophisticated aircraft. Strong partnerships with Emirates’ flight training division ensure that cadets’ training meets the airline’s standards and operational requirements.

Five cadets were specially honoured for outstanding achievements: Abdulrahman Alnuaimi, Falah Alhosani, Giada Macario, Shaheer Bhatti, and Saeed Abdulla, recognised for his diligence.

Located in Dubai South, EFTA’s campus provides cadets with private apartments and facilities such as a pool, gym, and recreation rooms. The environment allows them to focus on their rigorous training with minimal distractions.