We are excited to introduce you to Sam, the very first graduate of Allegiant’s Accelerate Pilot Pathway!
Sam’s journey to the right seat began in 2019 at Kent State University. Through the Accelerate Pilot Pathway, Sam was mentored by a Phoenix-based Allegiant pilot named Josh who guided him through his educational journey and schooled him on all things Allegiant.
Sam credits Josh with helping him appreciate the quality of life Allegiant offers pilots and how it’s different from other airlines. Unlike many airlines, Allegiant’s out-and-back model allows pilots to sleep in their own beds every night. They are never required to go on days-long shifts, which means they get to spend more time with the people who matter most.
Sam flew his first official Allegiant flight from Savannah, GA, to Appleton, WI, in October of 2023. Ultimately, he’ll be based in Cincinnati, so be sure to say “hey” if you see him!
What is the Accelerate Pilot Pathway?
Allegiant Travel Company announced the launch of its Accelerate Pilot Pathway April 25, 2023. It’s a program designed for university students who want to become pilots at a major airline. The name “Accelerate” denotes the clear path students can take to work for Allegiant through required training and mentorship.
Allegiant is partnering with universities that have a Part 141 flight training program – including Purdue University, Kent State University, Ohio University, Utah Valley University, Liberty University, University of North Dakota, and Western Michigan University – to offer the Accelerate Pilot Pathway to students who are sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Cadets who enroll in the program are assigned an Allegiant mentor to guide them through their educational journey.
By providing mentorship, conditional employment as a first officer for Allegiant, and assistance with regulatory credentials, the Accelerate Pilot Pathway streamlines the process new pilots face when transitioning from flight school to a major commercial carrier.
Upon entering their senior year, students may be hired on as a cadet and provided a conditional job offer as an Allegiant first officer. Cadets enjoy Allegiant employee benefits such as pass travel on Allegiant flights, participation in visits to Allegiant’s headquarters in Las Vegas, and access to Allegiant’s training centers.
Once a cadet reaches their required hours of flight training, Allegiant sponsors their attendance in an Airline Transport Pilot Certification course, and upon completion, the cadet joins Allegiant as a first officer.
Learn more about the Accelerate Pilot Pathway and how to become a pilot!
