The Alpha Trainer 2 is a two seat, high wing, modern carbon fiber aircraft designed to be the ultimate training and time building aircraft. The design is configured by Right Rudder Aviation and built by Pipistrel Aircraft, a new addition to the Textron eAviation portfolio. Mesa Airline Cadets will use the aicraft to build flight time. [Courtesy: Pipistrel]
Key Takeaways:
Mesa Airlines is launching a new pilot development program, acquiring 29 Pipistrel Alpha Trainer 2 aircraft, to directly combat the severe industry-wide pilot shortage.
The program offers qualified pilots an accelerated and cost-effective pathway to accumulate the 1,500 flight hours required for an airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate.
Pilots will have flight costs financed by Mesa (repaid upon employment), gain priority for employment, and receive benefits, providing a direct career path to Mesa Airlines and potential mainline carriers.
Mesa Airlines is taking a bold new step to ease the pilot shortage. The airline announced today that it would purchase 29 Pipistrel Alpha Trainer 2 aircraft to allow pilots in its Mesa Pilot Development (MPD) program to accumulate flight time towards gaining the 1,500 total flight time they need for an unrestricted airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate.
Textron Aviation acquired the assets of Pipistrel Aircraft in April as a strategic move into the electric aircraft market as part of its aviation portfolio. [Courtesy: Pipistrel]
The investment, according to the airline, will make steps towards alleviating the pilot shortage and give pilots a direct pathway to an airline career with no out-of-pocket costs.
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Michael Wildes holds a master’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, and a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science, both from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Previously, he worked at the university’s flight department as a Flight Check Airman, Assistant Training Manager, and Quality Assurance Mentor. He holds MEI, CFI & CFII ratings. Follow Michael on Twitter @Captainwildes.
