Delta has not stated if the change to its hiring guidelines is a result of the pilot shortage. [Courtesy: Delta Air Lines]
Key Takeaways:
Delta Airlines has eliminated the mandatory bachelor's degree requirement for first officer pilot candidates, making it "preferred" instead.
The change aims to remove hiring barriers, acknowledging that valuable experience can be gained through life and leadership without a traditional college degree.
Delta now aligns with other major U.S. airlines, such as Southwest, United, and American Airlines, which also do not require pilots to hold a four-year degree.
While the degree requirement has been updated, the 1,500-hour flight minimum for pilots remains in effect.
Delta Airlines (NYSE: DAL) will no longer require pilots to hold a bachelor’s degree, the airline announced this week.
“After a comprehensive review of our pilot hiring requirements, Delta has decided to make a four-year college degree ‘preferred’ rather than required for first officer candidates, effective immediately,” the company said in a statement.
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Based in Texas, Ashley is the former Marketing Manager at FLYING and focuses deeply on training and education. She graduated from the Baylor Institute for Air Science with a Bachelor's in Aviation Science and holds an MBA specializing in Marketing. She is an also instrument rated private pilot and licensed FAA dispatcher.
