FAQ

The full program typically takes around 2 years to complete, although the exact duration may vary depending on how quickly you pass the required exams set by the Civil Aviation Administration (CAA).

Yes, the training is internationally recognized. BAA Training is an Authorized Training Organization (ATO), and graduates receive an MPL, which qualifies them to work as a First Officer.

No, the Pilot Runway program is intensive and fast-paced compared to other training programs. Classes take place daily—including weekends—and usually run for 6 to 8 hours a day.

On top of that, students are expected to spend a significant amount of time on self-study. You also cannot miss more than 20% of the lectures for any subject without a justified reason, as per the Student Code of Conduct. So, due to the demanding schedule and strict attendance rules, it’s not possible to balance this program with a job.

The total cost of the Pilot Runway program is €115,000 and the assessment fee is €1,000.

As a Pilot Runway cadet, you’ll have the option to finance your training through an airline-backed loan. This means that after making an initial payment yourself, the remaining cost is covered by the airline you’ll eventually fly for. You’ll only begin repaying the loan once you start working as a First Officer.

To qualify for the loan, you’ll need a guarantor—someone who agrees to take on the responsibility if you’re unable to repay it.

Before you commit, we’ll guide you through the full financial plan, step by step—so you’ll know exactly what to expect. If you're eligible, you could start your training with a much smaller upfront cost and repay the rest once you're working as a First Officer.

Your grades in Math and Physics won’t impact your chances during the selection process. However, having a solid foundation in these subjects from school will definitely come in handy—both during the selection and throughout your training.

English is the international language of aviation, so a strong grasp of it is essential. All exams, assessments, and communication during training will be conducted in English—both on the ground and in the air.

The selection process includes stages of tests and interviews. The skill test checks your  knowledge in physics, mathematics, and logic, as well as certain specific abilities. To prepare, it’s a good idea to brush up on these subjects as well as practice with joystick - and pedal-based computer games to sharpen your coordination and reaction time.

Getting familiar with basic aircraft instruments - like altitude, speed indicators, radar, compass, artificial horizon, heading indicator, and radio frequencies - will also give you a valuable edge during both the test and your future training.

Short-term memory is another key skill to work on. You can improve it by playing memory-boosting online games. It also helps to become comfortable using a keyboard, as quick and accurate typing can be useful throughout the process. 

When it comes to the interview, be ready to clearly explain why you want to become a pilot and what steps you’ve already taken toward that goal. Your motivation and understanding of the profession will be a big part of your success. 

We recommend doing some research beforehand - read up more about our partner airlines, and learn as much as possible about what the job actually involves. This will help you make an informed choice and show the interviewers that you’re genuinely committed and well-prepared for this career. 

Unlike university admissions, which often rely on your high school diploma results, the Pilot Runway selection process takes a more holistic approach. Your acceptance is based on your performance across all stages: document screening, tests, and interviews.

Once you’ve submitted the required documents and met the basic eligibility criteria, you’ll move on to the next stage—similar to university entrance exams. This includes personality assessments, skill tests, and interviews with selection specialists and psychologists.

It's a more in-depth process designed to evaluate not just your academic background, but also your potential to become a successful airline pilot. 

One of the biggest advantages of the Pilot Runway program is the job guarantee. Our current airline partners—Avion Express, AirExplore, and SmartLynx Airlines—guarantee successful graduates a First Officer position with their crew. That’s the charm of Pilot Runway: complete the training, and you’re cleared for takeoff into your pilot career.

Yes, after successfully completing the MPL training program, you'll receive a permanent employment contract with the airline. Just like any standard job, there's no set end date—it’s a long-term position as a First Officer.

No, you don’t need a university degree to become an airline pilot. What really matters to airlines are your professional qualifications—specifically, your commercial pilot license and aircraft Type Rating. These are what qualify you to fly, and they’re entirely separate from a university degree.

There is no official age limit to apply for the Pilot Runway program. Everyone who meets the entry requirements is welcome to go through the selection process.

However, it’s worth noting that as age increases—especially beyond 35—success rates for the initial assessment, like the psychotechnical and psychomotor tests, tend to decrease. Older candidates may also face more challenges during the intensive training phase.

That said, motivation, preparation, and strong performance at each stage remain the key factors, regardless of age.

At the moment, the Pilot Runway program is open only to citizens of Bulgaria, Romania, Lithuania, Poland, and Slovakia.

This is due to current partnerships and regulations, but we’re always exploring opportunities to expand access in the future - so stay tuned!

ACMI stands for Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance. It’s a type of airline model where they provide these four elements to another airline that needs extra support—often during busy travel seasons or to cover specific routes.

For pilots, ACMI offers a unique way to gain international flying experience. Since aircraft and crew are often deployed across different countries and airline networks, it’s a fast-paced environment where you can build flight hours, adapt to various operations, and grow professionally—especially early in your career.