Who is eligible for Skybound funding?
Skybound funding is available to aspiring commercial pilots who meet the eligibility and training readiness criteria for our fully funded Zero-to-ATPL programme.
Phase 1 Criteria (Pilot Fundamentals & Eligibility Assessment)
Essential:
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Age 17+ at the time of application
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UK or EU passport holder
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Proficient in English (ICAO Level 4+)
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Ability to obtain a valid Class 1 aviation medical
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Willingness to prepare and demonstrate basic pilot knowledge to advance to Stage 2
Advantageous (but not required):
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Prior exposure to aviation (trial flights, simulator use, or logged flying hours)
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Completed PPL ground school exams (or equivalent theory study)
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Strong academic performance in maths, physics, or related subjects
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Evidence of disciplined self-study (e.g. preparing for exams, online learning)
Phase 3 — Interview
Essential:
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Successful completion of Phase 1 (Pilot Fundamentals & Eligibility Assessment) and Phase 2 (Aptitude)
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Demonstrated motivation and long-term commitment to an airline career
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Professional conduct, reliability, and integrity throughout the application process
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills (clarity, confidence, teamwork)
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Evidence of resilience under pressure and ability to adapt to challenging situations
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Self-awareness and willingness to learn from feedback
What can strengthen your application:
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Examples of leadership, teamwork, or responsibility from academic, work, or extracurricular settings
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Clear understanding of the demands of professional pilot training and airline standards
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Familiarity with structured interview techniques (e.g. STAR)
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A demonstrated passion for aviation (e.g. simulator use, trial flights, or industry involvement)
Phase 2 Criteria — Aptitude Assessment
Essential:
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Successful completion of Phase 1 (Pilot Fundamentals & Eligibility Assessment)
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UK or EU passport holder
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Proficient in English (ICAO Level 4+)
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Eligible and able to obtain a valid Class 1 aviation medical
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Demonstrated aptitude in core pilot competencies, including:
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Multi-tasking
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Situational awareness
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Problem-solving
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Numerical reasoning
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What can strengthen your application:
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Experience in team-based environments (e.g. sports, military, structured work roles)
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Previous use of cognitive or aptitude training tools
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Evidence of strong performance in academic, technical, or analytical subjects
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Exposure to fast-decision environments (e.g. gaming, simulation, or high-pressure jobs)
Phase 4 — Due Diligence
Essential:
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Successful completion of Phases 1–3 (Knowledge, Aptitude, Interview)
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Verification of eligibility: UK or EU passport holder, age 18+
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Proof of ability to obtain and maintain a valid Class 1 aviation medical
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Confirmation of financial suitability for the Future Earnings Agreement (FEA)
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Compliance with height and weight standards required for safe operation of training aircraft
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Willingness to commit to the full Zero-to-ATPL programme (approx. 18–24 months full-time training)
What can strengthen your application:
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Evidence of stable personal circumstances to support training commitment (e.g. ability to relocate, long-term planning)
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Clear financial history (no bankruptcies or restrictions)
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Strong references or endorsements from academic, professional, or aviation backgrounds
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Proactive approach to meeting requirements (e.g. already holding a valid Class 1 medical at the time of application)