Emirates Flight Training Academy Graduates 58 Cadet Pilots
58 talented cadet pilots have graduated from the Emirates Flight Training Academy (EFTA) in Dubai, marking the institution’s fourth successful graduation. The ceremony, attended by dignitaries, families, and aviation enthusiasts, celebrated the cadets’ successful completion of rigorous training both on the ground and in the skies.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, presented certificates to the graduates, welcoming them into the world of aviation.
Sheikh Ahmed emphasized the crucial role played by the Emirates Flight Training Academy in nurturing top aviation talent globally, supporting Dubai’s vision as a sustainable aviation hub, and contributing to the country’s Emiratisation goals.
Sheikh Ahmed stated, “Our cadet pilots fly the Emirates flag globally, represent our nation’s aviation ambitions, contribute collectively to the industry’s workforce and expand its pilot pipeline. Today, we not only celebrate their individual triumphs but their collective impact. Congratulations to our graduates, and I hope to fly with them soon. They will steer our fleet into the future.”
Emirates senior executives, including Adel Al Redha, Chief Operating Officer, and other distinguished guests, attended the graduation ceremony. The event also hosted H.E. Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, and H.E. Major General Ahmad Muhammad Bin Thani, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Ports Affairs, Dubai Police.
Captain Abdulla Al Hammadi, Divisional Vice President of Emirates Flight Training Academy, expressed pride in the graduates, stating, “Today, our graduates are ready to serve Emirates, the nation, and the world of aviation.
They have come far, both personally and professionally, since they embarked on their journey with us, and have completed one of the most rigorous pilot training courses in the world with resilience and professionalism. They are the future of aviation.”
Cadet graduate Fatima Al Ghumlasi, representing her class, spoke passionately about her journey as a proud female Emirati pilot. She emphasized that the training at EFTA went beyond flying skills, encompassing life skills, attention to detail, communication, and discipline of body, mind, and emotions.
The ceremony also recognized outstanding achievements, with cadets Ibrahim Al Blooshi and Mayed Mohammed applauded for their exceptional performances, and Nouf Hassan named the most diligent cadet.
Emirates Flight Training Academy currently boasts over 300 cadets, and with the completion of its fourth graduation, the academy has transformed a total of 162 cadets into highly skilled aviators, addressing the increasing demand for pilots in the global aviation industry.
According to Boeing, the demand for new commercial airline pilots is projected to reach 649,000 between 2023 and 2042, making institutions like EFTA crucial contributors to mitigating the global pilot shortage.
