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 removed the bachelor's degree requirement for first officer candidates, making it 'preferred' instead of mandatory, effective immediately.
This change aligns Delta with other major airlines, such as Southwest, United, and American, which do not require pilots to hold a four-year degree.
Delta states the move aims to remove barriers and recognize the value of life and leadership experience, though the 1,500-hour flight minimum still applies for pilots without a Restricted ATP program.
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.
