Program Offers Accelerated Path To The Right Seat

Mesaba Airlines and Kansas State University at Salina are partnering to put K-State Aviation professional pilot students on an accelerated track to becoming flight officers with the Eagan, MN-based subsidiary of Northwest Airlines.

The partnership will offer student pilots who complete a number of required courses an employment interview with Mesaba. Applicants who successfully complete the interview process may be granted a conditional offer of employment based on the airline's needs. Mesaba is currently hiring captains and first officers in a number of locations.

"This accelerated bridge agreement with Mesaba is an excellent avenue for our flight students to connect with another quality airline," said Kurt Barnhart, professor and head of K-State Aviation. "Getting the right job or your first job flying is all about connections, and this builds upon the solid connection between K-State Aviation and Mesaba Airlines," Barnhart said.

Founded in 1944, Mesaba Airlines is the longest-standing regional airline in the United States. In 2007, the airline entered into a relationship with longtime partner Northwest Airlines, becoming a subsidiary of the Delta merger partner.

FMI: www.mesaba.com, www.k-state.edu