Mesa Airlines Launches New Time Building Program for Aspiring Pilots

Mesa Airlines unveiled its new Independent Pilot Development (IPD) program on October 9—offering aspiring pilots a more streamlined approach to building flight time.

Amelia Walsh

Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at 02:52 PM ET

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Key Takeaways:

Mesa Airlines launched its Independent Pilot Development (IPD) program to offer aspiring pilots a "pay as you go" method for building flight time, costing $60 per hour in minimum 50-hour blocks.
The program utilizes new Pipistrel Alpha 2 aircraft and is designed for pilots with commercial certificates and instrument ratings, aiming to be the fastest way to achieve required flight hours.
IPD participants gain a competitive edge through airline training materials, mentorship, and a preferred interview with Mesa Airlines upon reaching 1,500 flight hours, or the option to apply to any airline.
The program directly addresses the pilot shortage faced by regional carriers, including Mesa, by accelerating time building and aiding in recruitment efforts.

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Regional carrier Mesa Airlines unveiled its new Independent Pilot Development (IPD) program on October 9—offering aspiring pilots a more streamlined approach to building flight time.

Mesa’s “pay as you go” program requires pilots to purchase a minimum of 50-hour blocks at $60 an hour, which includes fuel and is based on a two-pilot flight deck occupancy. According to the airline, the program is offered to pilots who have obtained their commercial pilot certificate and instrument rating.