Pilots training at Sling Pilot Academy in southern California now have a direct path to SkyWest Airlines thanks to the newly established Elite Partnership with the Utah-based airline.
Sling Pilot Academy has locations at Zamperini Field Airport (KTOA) in Torrance, and Gillespie Field Airport (KSEE) in San Diego. The academy uses a fleet of glass-cockpit Sling NGT in an accelerated program designed to train applicants from zero-time to commercial pilot certification. Graduates have the opportunity to become instructors at the academy to build their experience to the required 1,500 hours for airline employment.
The academy was created four years ago to train pilots for careers at the airlines. The academy fleet includes 26 aircraft and 4 ATDs (aviation training devices), consisting of all-new Sling NGTs, Tecnam P2006T twins, and a Super Decathlon for spin/aerobatic and upset recovery training.
There is already an existing history of graduates gaining employment at SkyWest, according to Wayne Toddun, co-CEO of Sling Pilot Academy.
“With this new partnership we expect to supply even more graduates to SkyWest and we know they will do well,” Toddun said. “SkyWest Airlines has a fantastic reputation for quality training. Many of our graduates have also expressed that the experience gained flying and teaching in our all-glass cockpit Sling NGT trainers made it easier for them to transition into flying commercial aircraft at SkyWest.”
As an Elite Partner, eligible Sling Pilot Academy students can also enjoy additional benefits such as $15,000 tuition reimbursement through certain program milestones, exclusive workshops, and access to a direct SkyWest liaison committed to Sling Pilot Academy students.
SkyWest’s Pilot Pathway Program is designed to provide a clear path for students to launch their pilot careers and offers company benefits including enhanced seniority, access to experienced pilot mentors, interview prep, and guaranteed final interview for a first officer position at SkyWest.
