Italy’s Professional Aviation, the country’s largest aviation academy, welcomed a new group of 18 cadets from Air Arabia Academy in July 2025. This event marks the third batch of Air Arabia cadets to begin their core flying phase at the Italian campus, showing a growing partnership between the Middle East and Europe in pilot training. The collaboration aims to address the global need for skilled airline pilots and to give cadets a unique, international training experience.
Arrival of the 18 Cadets: A New Chapter in International Pilot Training
On July 21, 2025, Professional Aviation announced The arrival of the third group of 18 Air Arabia Academy cadets through its official social media channels. By July 23, aviation news outlets confirmed that these cadets had started their training at the academy’s campus in Bologna, Italy. This intake follows a previous group of 17 cadets earlier in the year, showing a steady increase in the number of trainees and a deepening partnership between the two academies.
The arrival of these 18 cadets is not just a routine event. It represents a significant step in international cooperation in aviation training. As reported by VisaVerge.com, this partnership is seen as a model for cross-border pilot training, helping to solve the worldwide shortage of pilots and raising the standards of aviation education.
Key Players and Their Roles
Professional Aviation, based in Bologna, is Italy’s largest aviation academy. It offers both integrated and modular pilot training for fixed-wing (airplanes) and rotary-wing (helicopters) aircraft. The academy is known for its modern fleet, which is equipped with advanced Garmin avionics, and its ability to provide training all year round.
Air Arabia Academy, formerly known as T3 Aviation Academy, is the official training arm of Air Arabia. Based in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪, it is recognized as a leader in competency-based aviation learning. The academy prepares cadets to meet the highest international standards, focusing on both technical skills and adaptability.
Commander Nadhem AlHamad, CEO of T3 Aviation Academy, shared his thoughts on the partnership:
“This collaboration marks a significant milestone in T3’s mission to train pilots globally. Professional Aviation’s unique Italian environment and state-of-the-art resources will provide cadets with an unparalleled training experience aligned with international standards.”
Background: How the Partnership Began
The roots of this partnership go back to November 2024, when T3 Aviation Academy and Professional Aviation announced a strategic agreement. The goal was to allow Air Arabia cadets to complete their primary flight training in Italy starting in early 2025. This move was designed to meet the growing demand for highly qualified airline pilots and to give cadets exposure to different airspace and operational environments. By training in Italy, cadets would develop stronger technical and adaptive skills, making them more competitive in the global job market.
Training Program: What the Cadets Experience
The training program for Air Arabia Academy cadets at Professional Aviation is carefully structured to ensure the highest standards. Here’s how the process works:
Cadet Profile
– Age: 17–35 years old
– Education: At least a high school diploma (10+2 or equivalent)
Selection Process
– Multi-stage selection, including:
– Interviews to assess motivation and communication skills
– Medical exams to ensure fitness for flying
– Computer-based aptitude tests to measure technical ability
– English proficiency assessments, since aviation uses English as the main language
Only candidates who meet all these requirements move on to the flight training phase.
Training Structure
– Cadets start with ground school and simulator training at Air Arabia Academy in the UAE 🇦🇪.
– They then travel to Professional Aviation in Italy 🇮🇹 for the core flying phase, using the academy’s advanced fleet and facilities.
– Training in Italy follows European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards, which are recognized worldwide.
– After finishing the core flying phase, cadets return to Air Arabia Academy for type rating and airline-specific training, mainly on the Airbus A320.
Outcome
– Graduates who meet Air Arabia’s standards can become First Officers (co-pilots) with the airline.
Quantitative Data: Growth and Expansion
The July 2025 intake included 18 cadets, following a previous batch of 17 earlier in the year. This brings the total number of Air Arabia cadets trained at Professional Aviation in 2025 to at least 35, with more groups expected as the partnership grows. The steady increase in numbers shows the success of the program and the strong demand for international pilot training.
Why This Matters: Impacts on Cadets, Airlines, and Italy
For Cadets
– Exposure to European Airspace: Training in Italy gives cadets experience with European airspace and operational standards, making them more attractive to airlines around the world.
– Advanced Resources: Cadets have access to modern aircraft, advanced simulators, and experienced instructors.
– Diverse Flight Scenarios: Flying in different weather and airspace conditions helps cadets develop better decision-making and adaptability.
For Air Arabia
– Pipeline of Qualified Pilots: The partnership helps Air Arabia quickly train and hire skilled pilots, supporting the airline’s growth and reliability.
– International Standards: By training cadets in Europe, Air Arabia ensures its pilots meet high international standards.
For Professional Aviation and Italy
– International Reputation: Hosting foreign cadets strengthens Professional Aviation’s reputation as a top training center.
– Economic Benefits: The program brings international students and investment to Italy, supporting the local economy.
– Aviation Hub: Italy’s role as a center for aviation training is enhanced, attracting more partnerships in the future.
Step-by-Step Guide for Prospective Cadets
For those interested in joining this program, here’s a simple outline of the steps involved:
- Apply to Air Arabia Academy: Submit your application and supporting documents.
- Complete the Selection Process: Pass interviews, medical exams, computer tests, and English assessments.
- Begin Ground School: Start with classroom and simulator training in the UAE 🇦🇪.
- Transfer to Italy: Move to Professional Aviation in Bologna for the core flying phase.
- Complete Flight Training: Log required flight hours and pass assessments under EASA standards.
- Return for Type Rating: Go back to Air Arabia Academy for Airbus A320 training and airline integration.
- Start Your Career: Upon successful completion, join Air Arabia as a First Officer.
Expert Opinions and Multiple Perspectives
Aviation industry experts see this partnership as a smart way to address the global pilot shortage. By working together, Air Arabia Academy and Professional Aviation set a strong example for other airlines and training centers. The program not only helps fill pilot jobs but also raises the quality of training by exposing cadets to different flying environments.
Cadets themselves have shared positive feedback on social media, saying that training in Italy 🇮🇹 gives them valuable experience and opens up more career opportunities. They mention the benefits of learning in a new country, working with advanced equipment, and meeting students from different backgrounds.
Regulatory authorities in both Italy 🇮🇹 and the United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪 have approved the collaboration, making sure it meets all safety and quality standards set by EASA and the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). This official support adds to the program’s credibility and ensures that graduates are well-prepared for airline jobs.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Developments
The partnership between Professional Aviation and Air Arabia Academy is set to expand. More intakes are planned for late 2025 and 2026, which could increase the number of cadets sent each year. Both academies are also looking at ways to improve the program, such as adding more advanced simulation technology and developing joint training materials.
Other airlines and training organizations are watching this collaboration closely. Many see it as a possible solution to the worldwide pilot shortage and as a way to raise the quality of pilot training through international cooperation.
Contact Information and Resources
For those interested in learning more or applying, here are the official contacts:
- Professional Aviation: [email protected] | www.professionalaviation.it
- Air Arabia Academy: [email protected] | www.airarabia.academy | +971 6 508 8360
For official information on pilot licensing and training standards in Europe, readers can visit the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) website.
Broader Implications: What This Means for the Aviation Industry
The arrival of these 18 cadets at Professional Aviation is more than just a training milestone. It reflects a larger trend in the aviation industry, where airlines and training centers are working together across borders to solve common problems. The global pilot shortage is a serious issue, with many airlines struggling to find enough qualified pilots to keep up with growing demand.
By sending cadets to train in Italy 🇮🇹, Air Arabia Academy is giving its future pilots a broader education. They learn to fly in different types of airspace, handle new challenges, and adapt to various rules and procedures. This kind of training makes them better prepared for real-world airline jobs, where flexibility and quick thinking are essential.
For Italy 🇮🇹, hosting international cadets boosts the country’s reputation as a leader in aviation education. It also brings economic benefits, as students spend money on housing, food, and other services during their stay. The partnership helps build stronger ties between Italy 🇮🇹 and the United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪, showing how countries can work together for mutual benefit.
Challenges and Solutions: Addressing the Pilot Shortage
The aviation industry faces a growing shortage of pilots, driven by increasing air travel and retirements among older pilots. Training new pilots takes time and resources, and not all countries have the same level of training facilities or expertise.
This partnership offers a solution by pooling resources and sharing knowledge. Air Arabia Academy can send its cadets to Italy 🇮🇹, where they benefit from advanced equipment and experienced instructors. In return, Professional Aviation gains international students and strengthens its global connections.
By working together, both academies can train more pilots, faster and to a higher standard. This helps airlines like Air Arabia keep up with demand and maintain safe, reliable operations.
Voices from the Cadets: Real-Life Experiences
Cadets who have gone through the program often share their stories online. They talk about the excitement of flying in a new country, the challenges of adapting to different weather and airspace, and the friendships they make with fellow students from around the world.
One cadet wrote, “Training in Italy 🇮🇹 was an amazing experience. The instructors were very supportive, and I learned so much about flying in different conditions. I feel much more confident about starting my career as a pilot.”
These personal stories highlight the real impact of the program, beyond just technical training. Cadets gain life skills, cultural awareness, and a sense of achievement that will help them throughout their careers.
Conclusion: A Model for the Future
As of July 23, 2025, the arrival of 18 Air Arabia Academy cadets at Italy’s Professional Aviation marks a major step forward in international pilot training. The partnership is growing, with more cadets expected in the coming years. By working together, Air Arabia Academy and Professional Aviation are helping to shape the next generation of airline pilots, setting a high standard for others to follow.
This collaboration shows how international partnerships can solve big challenges, like the global pilot shortage, while giving students a richer, more complete education. With continued support from industry leaders and regulators, the program is well-positioned to play a key role in the future of aviation training.
For more details on pilot licensing and training requirements in Europe, visit the EASA official website.
Anyone interested in a career in aviation, or in learning more about this unique program, can reach out to Professional Aviation or Air Arabia Academy using the contact information above. The future of aviation depends on well-trained, adaptable pilots—and programs like this are leading the way.
Learn Today
Core Flying Phase → Main practical flight training segment at Professional Aviation for cadets after ground school.
EASA → European Union Aviation Safety Agency, regulating pilot training standards across Europe.
Type Rating → Specialized training for pilots to fly a specific aircraft model, like Airbus A320.
Modular Training → Pilot training divided into separate courses allowing flexible learning stages.
Competency-Based Learning → Training focused on developing specific skills and abilities rather than theory alone.
This Article in a Nutshell
In July 2025, Italy’s largest aviation academy welcomed 18 Air Arabia cadets for core flight training. This collaboration strengthens pilot skills by combining Middle Eastern and European aviation expertise, meeting global demands with advanced resources and EASA standards, setting a model for cross-border pilot education.
— By VisaVerge.com
