Which European Cities Will Emirates Target for Pilot Recruitment Roadshows?

The global carrier Emirates has launched a series of pilot recruitment roadshows across Europe. These events are scheduled throughout February. They specifically target experienced commercial pilots in the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The initiative is a key part of the airline’s ongoing global talent acquisition drive. It aims to support the airline's significant wide-body fleet expansion plans.

Targeting European Talent

The roadshows offer direct access to the Emirates recruitment team. Prospective applicants can gain detailed insights into career progression and compensation. The sessions also cover the lifestyle benefits of being based in Dubai.

Key Roadshow Locations

The UK leg of the tour includes four major cities in February:

• Manchester
• Belfast
• London Heathrow
• London Gatwick

In mainland Europe, the airline is hosting February recruitment events in two major hubs:

• Brussels, Belgium
• Amsterdam, Netherlands

Emirates is seeking candidates for several key roles. These include Direct Entry Captains, First Officers Type Rated, and First Officers Non-Type Rated. An Accelerated Command Programme is also available for qualified pilots.

Driving the Fleet Expansion

This aggressive hiring campaign is essential for Emirates' future operations. The airline is actively preparing for a major fleet upgrade and expansion. Emirates has a substantial order book of new-generation wide-body aircraft. This includes 65 Airbus A350-900s. It also features over 200 aircraft from the Boeing 777X family. These new jets will operate alongside the existing fleet of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s.

Recruiting experienced commercial pilots is critical to manage this growth. The airline is also undertaking an extensive retrofit program. This program will upgrade the cabins of 219 existing aircraft.

Global Pilot Demand Context

Emirates’ recruitment drive highlights the intense competition for flight crew worldwide. The aviation industry faces a significant global pilot demand challenge. Consulting firm Oliver Wyman estimates a pilot shortfall 2026 will be the largest on record. This shortfall could reach 24,000 pilots globally.

Industry analysts like CAE forecast a need for 267,000 new commercial pilots over the next decade. This is driven by retirements and sustained traffic growth. The current market favors qualified pilots. Airlines are offering enhanced compensation and faster career paths. Emirates is positioning itself to capture top talent from key European aviation markets. The roadshows offer a clear pathway to long-haul pilot careers with a major international airline.

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