Gloucestershire Airport, UK – 4th November, 2024:
Skyborne Airline Academy has announced an exciting new collaboration with DHL, the world leader in logistics, to launch a fully funded Integrated Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) programme, designed to support employees of DHL Air (UK).
The first group of trainees, based at DHL Air’s East Midlands hub, has already begun their UK CAA Integrated ATPL training at Skyborne. Upon completion of the programme, the cadets are set to take on the role of First Officers, operating DHL Air (UK)’s fleet of Boeing aircraft.
Lee Woodward, CEO of Skyborne, emphasizes the academy’s commitment to inclusivity within the aviation industry, stating, “At Skyborne, we’re strong advocates of making pilot training accessible for all, regardless of background. Our partnership with DHL Air (UK) continues this drive to remove financial barriers to entry and encourage greater diversity in our industry.”
Debbie Moore, Head of Talent Management and Development at DHL Air (UK), shared her enthusiasm for this groundbreaking initiative, saying, “We’re delighted to be partnering with Skyborne for our first-ever sponsored flight training initiative. With graduates from the academy already flying with DHL, we knew we were making the right choice. This cadet pilot programme gives an opportunity of a lifetime to our team members who could not otherwise afford the dream. Thanks to our funding and Skyborne’s expertise, our employees can pursue a pilot career with confidence.”
This partnership has already begun to change lives, as evidenced by two trainees who are embarking on their aviation journeys.
Jordan Brown, who spent six years in DHL Air (UK)’s HR department, shared his excitement, saying, “I am excited to start my flight training with Skyborne. I’ve been working at DHL within the HR department for the past six years, and now DHL has given me the opportunity of a lifetime, which never felt within reach, to fly our aircraft worldwide. I’m incredibly grateful to both DHL and Skyborne and look forward to completing my Integrated ATPL and returning to DHL Air (UK).”
Similarly, Jamie McKenzie, who has dedicated nine years to DHL, with his most recent role as Aircraft Handling Specialist, highlighted his gratitude for this opportunity. He said, “I’ve always dreamt of a flying career, but I never believed I’d be able to achieve it. I’ve been working at DHL for the last nine years, most recently as an Aircraft Handling Specialist on board our aircraft. Now I will begin my journey towards flying the aircraft I used to load. I’m incredibly thankful to DHL and Skyborne for providing me with this opportunity of a lifetime.”
This collaboration with DHL Air (UK) is Skyborne’s second fully airline-funded training programme in the last year, showcasing the academy’s commitment to fostering growth and diversity within aviation.
For further details about the partnership and programme, visit Skyborne Airline Academy’s website.
