Florida Flight School Allows FO Pathway for CFIs

Epic Flight Academy, of Smyrna, Florida, has announced its addition to the United Airlines Aviate Program. Epic's students and flight instructors are now able to build time for their career at the school as they train and work, and eventually move on to United as a First Officer once they meet the minimum pilot standards. 

Epic is a part 141 FAA-certified flight school, where student applicants are invited to sit for an interview with United Airlines for acceptance into the program. If selected, students obtain an Aviate coach, a United pilot, once they complete their training at the school. Once rated, students will, as many flight schools offer, move on become flight instructors as they begin working towards the all-important 1500-hour requirement. If they stay on with Epic to build up sufficient experience, Aviate offers a few options as a final step prior to transitioning to a full United-brand flight deck. Participating United Express carriers like GoJet, Mesa, CommutAir, and Air Wisconsin will be the student's first carrier job, eventually allowing them to transition to United as a First Officer. 

"We are thrilled to partner with Epic Flight Academy and are confident they will be an invaluable asset to Aviate due to their innovative approach to the aviation market, prestigious reputation and rigorous training. We look forward to working with them and welcoming more First Officers to the United family," said Captain Curtis Brunjes, Managing Director of Aviate & Pilot Strategy at United Airlines.

FMI: www.epicflightacademy.com, www.united.com