Several airlines around the world offer free or subsidized pilot training programs to attract and develop future pilots, particularly for those who are committed to working for the airline once they complete their training. These programs are typically competitive and may require candidates to meet certain criteria.

Here are some airlines that offer or have offered free or subsidized pilot training:

1. Emirates (UAE)

• Emirates Flight Training Academy: Emirates offers a pilot cadet program where selected candidates can undergo training to become commercial pilots. While the program isn't entirely free, the airline covers a significant portion of the training costs. Successful cadets are then employed by Emirates as pilots.

• Eligibility: Applicants need to meet certain academic and physical requirements, and they must be willing to commit to working for Emirates after completing the training.

2. Qatar Airways (Qatar)

• Qatar Airways Cadet Pilot Program: Qatar Airways offers a cadet program where the airline covers the cost of training. Upon successful completion, pilots are employed by Qatar Airways.

• Eligibility: The program is highly competitive, and applicants need to meet specific criteria, including academic qualifications and physical fitness standards.

3. Singapore Airlines (Singapore)

• Singapore Airlines Pilot Trainee Program: Singapore Airlines offers a cadet pilot program where the airline sponsors the training, but it may require a commitment to work for the airline for a certain number of years after graduation.

• Eligibility: Applicants typically need to have completed at least secondary education, be physically fit, and meet certain age requirements.

4. Cathay Pacific (Hong Kong)

• Cathay Pacific Cadet Pilot Program: This program offers fully sponsored training, but candidates need to meet high standards and commit to working with the airline upon completion. Cathay provides a structured training program that covers the costs for selected individuals.

• Eligibility: Applicants must meet educational and physical requirements, and successful candidates are expected to stay with Cathay Pacific for a specified period.

5. Jet Airways (India) (Previously)

• Jet Airways Cadet Pilot Program (Note: Jet Airways ceased operations in 2019 but was planning to resume operations in 2024, and historically, they had a program where selected candidates would undergo training with the airline covering most of the costs). However, candidates would need to sign a bond to commit to working for Jet Airways post-training.

6. British Airways (UK)

• British Airways Pilot Training Program: British Airways previously offered a program where the airline would sponsor pilots in training. They have an Apprentice Pilot Scheme that covers much of the cost, with a commitment to work for the airline once the training is complete. However, this program is extremely competitive, and not all applicants are selected.

• Eligibility: Requirements include specific academic qualifications, age limits, and a commitment to stay with the airline after training.

7. Ryanair (Ireland)

• Ryanair Pilot Training Program: Ryanair offers a pilot recruitment program in which selected candidates undergo sponsored flight training through its partnership with flight training providers. After completing the training, pilots are hired by Ryanair.

• Eligibility: Candidates need to meet certain qualifications, including education and age requirements. The program is typically open to candidates who already have a private pilot license (PPL) and want to advance to an airline career.

8. Flybe (UK)

• Flybe Pilot Training Scheme: Flybe (before ceasing operations in 2020) offered training programs with significant sponsorship, allowing candidates to train at reduced costs. They also provided a pathway to employment with Flybe after completing the training.

9. Airline Training Partnerships (Various Airlines)

• Some airlines offer partnerships with flight schools where the airline covers a significant portion of training costs in exchange for a commitment to work for them once the training is completed. Examples of this can vary depending on airline routes and partnerships, and many regional airlines offer similar programs.

Key Considerations:

• Commitment: Most of these programs require a commitment to work for the airline for a specified number of years after completing the training. Failing to do so may result in paying back part or all of the training costs.

• Eligibility: Selection for these programs is highly competitive, and airlines typically have strict requirements regarding academic performance, physical fitness, age, and language proficiency (English is often required).

• Training Duration: The length of the training program can vary, but it typically lasts between 18 months to 3 years, depending on the airline and the type of license being pursued.

If you are interested in such programs, it's best to regularly check the respective airline's careers page for the most up-to-date information on any available cadet pilot or trainee programs.