flynas has announced plans to qualify and graduate up to 300 Saudi pilots by the end of 2027 through its "Future Pilots" programme and employment-linked scholarships under the Wa’ed Track of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Programme.

The initiative aims to increase the localisation of pilot roles while supporting the airline's rapid expansion, including fleet growth backed by orders for 280 aircraft.

Since its launch in 2007, the Future Pilots programme has combined academic studies with theoretical, practical and flight training to develop Saudi aviation talent to international industry standards.

The programme has already produced around 300 co-pilots by 2024, enabling flynas to achieve 100% Saudisation of the co-pilot position.

The airline now plans to expand training to prepare Saudi nationals for pilot roles across all career levels, including progression to captain.

flynas said the initiative aligns with its long-term growth strategy and the Kingdom's expanding aviation sector, supporting the objectives of Saudi Arabia's National Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030.

These national plans aim to establish the Kingdom as a global aviation hub while creating skilled employment opportunities for Saudi citizens.

The employment-linked scholarship programme under the Wa’ed Track combines funded education, specialised aviation training and guaranteed career pathways, providing participants with the qualifications and experience needed to build long-term careers in one of Saudi Arabia's priority economic sectors.

The airline said the programme reinforces its commitment to developing national talent while meeting future workforce requirements. -TradeArabia News Service