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Application via an approved training partner
Ryanair Future Flyer Academy selection: stages, tests and how to prepare
This page covers two Ryanair cadet routes. The Future Flyer Academy is a mentored route through approved partner flight schools for people with little or no flying experience, with a conditional job offer on enrolment. The Airline Flight Academy B737 cadet route is for pilots who have completed initial flight training and ends in a one-day sim assessment. Selection is run by each partner school: Bartolini Air combines an online aptitude test with a one-day assessment covering maths, physics, English, a group exercise and an interview, while Skyborne uses online psychometrics and an online interview. All facts checked 25 October 2026.2134
Ryanair Careers states it is inviting applications for the B737 Cadet Programme through Airline Flight Academy; Future Flyer Academy applications go through partner flight schools. Checked 25 October 2026.1
- Future Flyer Academy Definition
- The Ryanair Future Flyer Academy (formerly the Ryanair Mentored Programme) lets people with little or no prior aviation experience enrol in one of Ryanair’s part-sponsored flight training programmes to obtain a Commercial Pilot Licence, with a direct path to becoming a future Ryanair pilot.2
- Future Flyer Academy Partners
- Training is delivered by approved partner schools, including locations in Dublin, Cork, Paris, Rome, Lodz, Cheltenham and Bournemouth.2
- Conditional Job Offer
- Successful graduates receive a conditional job offer upon enrolment and benefit from a fast-tracked recruitment process.2
- Type Rating Inclusion
- The ab-initio and Gateway 1 programmes include the Boeing 737 Type Rating, which is subject to a training costs agreement.2
- Ab-Initio Duration
- The integrated ab-initio course can be completed in 16 months or more at an approved partner school.2
- Ab-Initio Experience
- No previous flying experience is required for the zero-to-hero full-time ab-initio course.2
- Gateway 1 Requirements
- Applicants must hold a PPL with 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command and have completed EASA ATPL theoretical exams.2
- Gateway 2 Requirements
- Candidates must hold an EASA Frozen ATPL licence, CPL and ME/IR ratings to complete the APS MCC course.2
- Bartolini Air: EU Entry Age
- Applicants for the EU scheme must be at least 17 years old.3
- Bartolini Air: UK Entry Age
- Applicants for the UK scheme must be at least 17 years old.3
- Bartolini Air: EU Nationality
- Applicants for the EU scheme must hold an EU passport.3
- Bartolini Air: UK Right to Work
- Applicants for the UK scheme must hold a UK passport or be eligible to live and work in the UK.3
- Bartolini Air: Education Requirement
- Candidates must have completed secondary or high school education, or an equivalent qualification.3
- Bartolini Air: Medical Requirement
- Students must be able to obtain an EASA Class 1 medical certificate before their first flight.3
- Bartolini Air Cost
- At Bartolini Air the Ab Initio Integrated course, including AUPRT and APS MCC, costs EUR 83,990 under the EU scheme and EUR 73,990 under the UK scheme. The UK price is for UK citizens and people with the right to live and work in the UK who are willing to be based in the UK with Ryanair for at least five years (5-year bond). EU scheme cadets sign a training agreement with a 4-year bond. The Boeing 737 type rating is delivered by Ryanair under a Training Costs Agreement with no upfront payment and no salary deductions.3
- Bartolini Air Assessment Fee
- The RFFA Integrated assessment costs EUR 350 and is non-refundable.3
- Skyborne Self-Funding
- The Skyborne programme is explicitly noted as a self-funded course.4
- Skyborne Course Price
- The total course breakdown price at Skyborne is £131,400.4
- Skyborne Age Requirement
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old on the first day of the training course.4
- Skyborne Education
- Candidates need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths, English Language and Science.4
- Skyborne Medicals
- A valid unrestricted UK CAA Class 1, EASA Class 1 and FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate is required before commencement.4
- Skyborne Locations
- Training phases take place at Bournemouth Airport, Gloucestershire Airport and Vero Beach, Florida.4
- Application Channel
- Applications for the Ryanair Future Flyer Academy can only be made through partner flight schools.2
- Cadet Programme Partner
- The B737 Cadet Programme is run through the Airline Flight Academy (AFA), a flight training partner for Ryanair Group.1
- Cadet Licence Requirement
- Candidates must hold a valid EASA CPL Frozen ATPL or a limited number of UK CAA licences for the G Reg fleet.1
- Cadet Training Completion
- Applicants must have fully completed all phases of initial flight training before applying for the type-rating programme.1
- Cadet AUPRT Requirement
- A certificate of satisfactory completion of EASA Advanced Upset Prevention and Recovery Training is mandatory.1
- Cadet APS MCC Requirement
- A certificate of satisfactory completion of EASA APS MCC is required, as standard MCC will not be accepted.1
- Cadet Modular Hours
- Modular course candidates need 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command, or 70 hours if completed during integrated training.1
- Cadet Right to Work
- Candidates must hold an unrestricted right to live and work in the EU and/or UK.1
- Cadet Selection Location
- The selection procedure takes place in Dublin or other training centres used by the airline.1
- Cadet Assessment Components
- The one-day assessment includes a B737-800 simulator session, technical interview and personnel interview.1
- Cadet Result Notification
- Applicants are contacted within 7 working days after the selection day with their assessment results.1
- Online aptitude test (Bartolini Air)
- Bartolini Air describes its online aptitude step as an AON cut-e aptitude test and lists numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, spatial orientation and multitasking as common areas to prepare; it provides no dedicated mock tests.3
- Funding summary
- Ryanair describes the Future Flyer Academy as part-sponsored: the integrated course fee is paid to the partner school, while the Boeing 737 type rating is delivered by Ryanair under a Training Costs Agreement. Skyborne UK describes its own course as self-funded.2
Interview and group exercise
Ryanair selectors look for individuals with ambition, attitude, and professionalism. They value a strong work ethic, a proactive approach to learning, and a commitment to safety and operational excellence. Excellent communication and Crew Resource Management (CRM) skills are essential, as is the ability to remain calm and perform under pressure. Adaptability, resilience, a positive attitude towards feedback, and strong teamwork skills are also critical qualities.
To prepare for interviews, reflect on specific instances where you demonstrated leadership or effective teamwork in challenging situations. Structure your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide clear, concise narratives. Ensure your examples highlight how you handled pressure and collaborated with others to achieve a safe and efficient outcome.
For group exercises, practise active listening and inclusive communication strategies. Observe how you contribute to collective problem-solving while respecting diverse viewpoints. Review past group projects to identify strengths and areas for improvement in collaboration and conflict resolution, ensuring you can demonstrate a collaborative mindset during the assessment.1
What you can practise here
Ensure your passport validity and right to work are documented clearly, as these are strict eligibility filters for both routes.
For the Future Flyer Academy, dedicate time to revising secondary-level maths and physics concepts without relying on calculators. Prepare for the interview by reflecting on teamwork experiences and demonstrating a commitment to safety and continuous learning.
If applying for the AFA Cadet route, review your current aircraft systems thoroughly for the technical assessment. Make sure your flight school report is complete: it must be written in English and signed by your Head of Training.
The practice plan for this selection includes Mathematics, Physics, Mechanical reasoning, Arithmetic: mixed problems, Time arithmetic (hours and minutes), English grammar, English vocabulary, Group exercise practice and Interview preparation. A Pass unlocks the practice modes in that plan and runs for a week, a month, three months or a year, with no subscription and no automatic renewal.
Questions candidates ask
How do I apply for the Ryanair Future Flyer Academy?
Applications must be submitted directly to approved partner flight schools rather than through Ryanair careers pages. The partner school will then contact you to provide information about their specific recruitment process.
What are the entry requirements for ab-initio candidates?
You generally need an EU or UK passport, secondary education, and the ability to obtain an EASA Class 1 medical. You must be at least 17 years old and have a good level of English. Some partners require you to be 18 on the first day of training.
What does the Future Flyer Academy assessment involve?
It depends on the partner school. Ryanair says ab-initio and Gateway 1 students go through psychometric and aptitude testing that can be done online at home, plus a one-day assessment at a partner school. At Bartolini Air that day covers maths, physics, English communication, a group exercise and an interview. Skyborne UK instead uses online psychometric, numeracy and aptitude assessments followed by an online competency-based interview.
Can I use a calculator during the maths test?
For the maths assessment at Bartolini Air you may use pen and paper but calculators are not permitted. Bartolini Air recommends practising mental arithmetic and understanding the principles so you can apply them to practical problems.
Is there a cost for the Future Flyer Academy assessment?
At some partner schools like Bartolini Air, the integrated assessment costs EUR 350 and is non-refundable. Other partners such as Skyborne state they do not charge for selection.
What are the minimum requirements for the AFA B737 Cadet route?
Applicants must hold a valid EASA Frozen ATPL and a Class 1 medical certificate. You also need a valid multi-engine instrument rating and certificates for AUPRT and APS MCC training.
What happens during the AFA selection day?
The day takes place at a sim centre and includes a pre-simulator briefing and company presentation. Candidates undergo a 45-minute simulator assessment, an English test, a technical assessment and a personnel interview.
When will I hear back after the AFA assessment?
Applicants are contacted by phone or email with their results within 7 working days after the selection day. If successful, a team member will call to arrange an upcoming course date.
Do Future Flyer graduates get priority for type rating?
Graduates receive a conditional job offer upon enrolment and benefit from fast-tracked recruitment. They are given preference during initial selection and priority on type rating courses.
What if I fail the final Ryanair assessment?
Comprehensive feedback is provided to the partner school's Head of Training if a student fails. Subject to approval, additional training may be provided before completing a second assessment.2341
About Ryanair Future Flyer Academy
Ryanair Future Flyer Academy is a pilot training programme based in Ireland. It belongs to Ryanair.
This page sets out the selection in 4 stages.
The four phases
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Flight school psychometric and aptitude testing (online)Practise this phase
3/4
One-day assessment at a partner schoolPractise this phase
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Final Ryanair cadet assessment after flight trainingPractise this phase
Ryanair Future Flyer Academy at a glance
Part of Ryanair- Country
- Ireland
- Cadet programme
- Ryanair Future Flyer Academy2
What does Ryanair Future Flyer Academy ask of pilots?
- Ab-Initio Experience
- No previous flying experience is required for the zero-to-hero full-time ab-initio course.2
- Gateway 1 Requirements
- Applicants must hold a PPL with 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command and have completed EASA ATPL theoretical exams.2
- Gateway 2 Requirements
- Candidates must hold an EASA Frozen ATPL licence, CPL and ME/IR ratings to complete the APS MCC course.2
- Bartolini Air: EU Entry Age
- Applicants for the EU scheme must be at least 17 years old.3
- Bartolini Air: UK Entry Age
- Applicants for the UK scheme must be at least 17 years old.3
- Bartolini Air: EU Nationality
- Applicants for the EU scheme must hold an EU passport.3
- Bartolini Air: UK Right to Work
- Applicants for the UK scheme must hold a UK passport or be eligible to live and work in the UK.3
- Bartolini Air: Education Requirement
- Candidates must have completed secondary or high school education, or an equivalent qualification.3
- Bartolini Air: Medical Requirement
- Students must be able to obtain an EASA Class 1 medical certificate before their first flight.3
- Skyborne Age Requirement
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old on the first day of the training course.4
- Skyborne Education
- Candidates need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths, English Language and Science.4
- Skyborne Medicals
- A valid unrestricted UK CAA Class 1, EASA Class 1 and FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate is required before commencement.4
- Cadet Licence Requirement
- Candidates must hold a valid EASA CPL Frozen ATPL or a limited number of UK CAA licences for the G Reg fleet.1
- Cadet Training Completion
- Applicants must have fully completed all phases of initial flight training before applying for the type-rating programme.1
- Cadet AUPRT Requirement
- A certificate of satisfactory completion of EASA Advanced Upset Prevention and Recovery Training is mandatory.1
- Cadet APS MCC Requirement
- A certificate of satisfactory completion of EASA APS MCC is required, as standard MCC will not be accepted.1
- Cadet Modular Hours
- Modular course candidates need 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command, or 70 hours if completed during integrated training.1
- Cadet Right to Work
- Candidates must hold an unrestricted right to live and work in the EU and/or UK.1
Interview and group exercise
Ryanair selectors look for individuals with ambition, attitude, and professionalism. They value a strong work ethic, a proactive approach to learning, and a commitment to safety and operational excellence. Excellent communication and Crew Resource Management (CRM) skills are essential, as is the ability to remain calm and perform under pressure. Adaptability, resilience, a positive attitude towards feedback, and strong teamwork skills are also critical qualities.
To prepare for interviews, reflect on specific instances where you demonstrated leadership or effective teamwork in challenging situations. Structure your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide clear, concise narratives. Ensure your examples highlight how you handled pressure and collaborated with others to achieve a safe and efficient outcome.
For group exercises, practise active listening and inclusive communication strategies. Observe how you contribute to collective problem-solving while respecting diverse viewpoints. Review past group projects to identify strengths and areas for improvement in collaboration and conflict resolution, ensuring you can demonstrate a collaborative mindset during the assessment.1
What you can practise here
Ensure your passport validity and right to work are documented clearly, as these are strict eligibility filters for both routes.
For the Future Flyer Academy, dedicate time to revising secondary-level maths and physics concepts without relying on calculators. Prepare for the interview by reflecting on teamwork experiences and demonstrating a commitment to safety and continuous learning.
If applying for the AFA Cadet route, review your current aircraft systems thoroughly for the technical assessment. Make sure your flight school report is complete: it must be written in English and signed by your Head of Training.
The practice plan for this selection includes Mathematics, Physics, Mechanical reasoning, Arithmetic: mixed problems, Time arithmetic (hours and minutes), English grammar, English vocabulary, Group exercise practice and Interview preparation. A Pass unlocks the practice modes in that plan and runs for a week, a month, three months or a year, with no subscription and no automatic renewal.
Questions candidates ask
How do I apply for the Ryanair Future Flyer Academy?
Applications must be submitted directly to approved partner flight schools rather than through Ryanair careers pages. The partner school will then contact you to provide information about their specific recruitment process.
What are the entry requirements for ab-initio candidates?
You generally need an EU or UK passport, secondary education, and the ability to obtain an EASA Class 1 medical. You must be at least 17 years old and have a good level of English. Some partners require you to be 18 on the first day of training.
What does the Future Flyer Academy assessment involve?
It depends on the partner school. Ryanair says ab-initio and Gateway 1 students go through psychometric and aptitude testing that can be done online at home, plus a one-day assessment at a partner school. At Bartolini Air that day covers maths, physics, English communication, a group exercise and an interview. Skyborne UK instead uses online psychometric, numeracy and aptitude assessments followed by an online competency-based interview.
Can I use a calculator during the maths test?
For the maths assessment at Bartolini Air you may use pen and paper but calculators are not permitted. Bartolini Air recommends practising mental arithmetic and understanding the principles so you can apply them to practical problems.
Is there a cost for the Future Flyer Academy assessment?
At some partner schools like Bartolini Air, the integrated assessment costs EUR 350 and is non-refundable. Other partners such as Skyborne state they do not charge for selection.
What are the minimum requirements for the AFA B737 Cadet route?
Applicants must hold a valid EASA Frozen ATPL and a Class 1 medical certificate. You also need a valid multi-engine instrument rating and certificates for AUPRT and APS MCC training.
What happens during the AFA selection day?
The day takes place at a sim centre and includes a pre-simulator briefing and company presentation. Candidates undergo a 45-minute simulator assessment, an English test, a technical assessment and a personnel interview.
When will I hear back after the AFA assessment?
Applicants are contacted by phone or email with their results within 7 working days after the selection day. If successful, a team member will call to arrange an upcoming course date.
Do Future Flyer graduates get priority for type rating?
Graduates receive a conditional job offer upon enrolment and benefit from fast-tracked recruitment. They are given preference during initial selection and priority on type rating courses.
What if I fail the final Ryanair assessment?
Comprehensive feedback is provided to the partner school's Head of Training if a student fails. Subject to approval, additional training may be provided before completing a second assessment.2341
- 1Cadets, Ryanair Careers
- 2Become a Pilot, Ryanair Careers
- 3Ryanair Future Flyer Academy, Bartolini Air
- 4Ryanair Future Flyer Academy, Skyborne Airline Academy
- 5Ryanair | Wikipedia · accessed 11 Oct 2026
- 6Ryanair Careers: Pilots · accessed 10 Oct 2026
- 7Direct Entry Pilots | Ryanair Careers · accessed 11 Oct 2026
- 8Ryanair homepage · accessed 11 Oct 2026
