frequently asked questions

Envoy Air is a regional airline and a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group. It operates more than 180 aircraft and runs around 1,000 daily flights to over 160 destinations, primarily providing regional services for American Airlines under the American Eagle name. In addition to flying, Envoy also supports American with ground handling services at select airports.

Originally formed in 1998 as American Eagle Airlines following the merger of several regional carriers, the company has grown into one of the largest regional airlines in the world. Headquartered in Irving, Texas, Envoy plays a key role in feeding passengers into American Airlines’ major hub network.

In 2014, the company rebranded from American Eagle Airlines to Envoy Air to better distinguish itself from the broader American Eagle brand, which includes multiple regional carriers operating on behalf of American Airlines.

The Envoy Cadet Program is a career pathway designed to guide aspiring pilots from flight training all the way to the flight deck of a regional airline.

Run by Envoy Air, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group, the program partners with selected universities and flight schools, such as Skyborne to identify and support student pilots early in their training.

As a cadet, you receive structured mentorship from experienced airline pilots, financial incentives such as bonuses, and a clearly defined route to becoming a First Officer flying for Envoy under the American Eagle network. The program is designed to make the transition from training to a professional airline career more predictable and supported.

Once you meet the required flight experience and qualifications (including ATP minimums), you can transition directly into new-hire pilot training with Envoy, putting youon a pathway that can ultimately lead to opportunities with American Airlines.

Joining the Envoy Cadet Program through Skyborne Airline Academy combines high-quality flight training with a structured, airline-aligned career pathway, giving you both the skills and the direction to move into a professional cockpit.

One of the biggest advantages is the integrated training-to-airline approach.

Skyborne’s FAA Part 141 program is designed to take you from zero hours through to commercial readiness in a focused, full-time environment. At the same time, your connection to Envoy Air means you’re not just training, you’re working toward a clearly defined role as a future airline pilot.

Another key benefit is mentorship and career support. As part of the cadet program, you gain access to guidance from Envoy pilots and recruiters, helping you stay on track, prepare for interviews, and understand what’s expected at each stage of your career.

There are also financial incentives, with Envoy offering eligible cadets up to $15,000 in bonuses, helping to offset the cost of training and early career progression.

Finally, the program offers a clear pathway to the airlines. After completing your training and building the required flight hours, you can transition to flying for Envoy under the American Eagle network, with the long-term opportunity to progress within the American Airlines Group system.

No. You are able to apply to Envoy once you complete your PPL. Your application will be reviewed by an Envoy recruiter where they will review your qualifications and skills.

While employment is not automatic, successful completion of the interview and required standards can lead to a First Officer position at Envoy.

The length of the program depends on when ATP or R-ATP minimums are met. Timelines vary based on your training pace, total flight hours, and experience level and will not be completed until ATP or R-ATP minimums are met.

• FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument and Multi-Engine Ratings
• 1,500 hours total flight time (or the appropriate restricted ATP minimums)
• First-Class FAA Medical Certificate
• FCC Radio License

Envoy Air is a fully owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group and operates exclusively within the American Airlines network under the American Eagle. Unlike many regional airlines that fly for multiple carriers, Envoy is fully integrated into one of the world’s largest airline systems, providing a clear and structured pathway into mainline aviation.

For aspiring pilots, this means more than just a regional flying job, it’s a direct entry point into the American Airlines ecosystem. With strong cadet pathways, structured development, and long-term career progression opportunities, Envoy offers a focused route from training to the flight deck and beyond.