Dubai, UAE – September 2025: flydubai, the Dubai-based airline, has opened applications for its Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering Apprenticeship, a unique opportunity for motivated Emirati high school graduates to start a career in aviation. The airline’s initiative reflects its commitment to supporting the next generation of UAE Nationals and helping them build long-term careers in the aviation sector.
The fully sponsored four-year apprenticeship programme is part of the UAE National Development Programme. It is managed by flydubai’s Maintenance and Engineering Department and aims to provide young UAE Nationals with essential technical skills, hands-on training, and practical experience. Upon completion, participants can qualify as certified Aircraft Technicians, with approval from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel
Opportunities for Emirati Youth
Nasser Binkherbash, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at flydubai, said:
"At flydubai, we remain committed to investing in the development of UAE National talent and creating opportunities for the next generation to build long-term careers in aviation. Our GCAA-approved training programmes allow us to train and certify homegrown talent to support our growth plans."
The programme is open to UAE Nationals between 17 and 24 years old who meet the eligibility criteria. Successful applicants will undergo intensive training in both theory and practical work for up to four years. The training is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required to work on modern aircraft and prepare them for a successful aviation career.
Structure of the Apprenticeship Programme
The apprenticeship is structured in stages to gradually develop participants’ skills:
-
Theoretical Training:
Apprentices will start with classroom-based learning to understand aviation systems, maintenance procedures, and safety standards. This foundational knowledge is critical for any aviation technician. -
Practical Training:
After completing the theory, students will move to hands-on training as Aircraft Technician trainees. They will work on operational aircraft under the supervision of experienced engineers. Each apprentice will maintain a detailed logbook to track their progress, recording every task and skill they acquire. -
Certification:
Upon completing the apprenticeship and meeting company standards, participants can apply for the GCAA Basic Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Licence (AMEL). With this certification, graduates can begin their professional journey with flydubai as fully certified Aircraft Technicians.
Benefits of the Programme
-
Fully Sponsored Training: All training costs are covered by flydubai, including access to resources, tools, and guidance from experienced professionals.
-
Industry-Recognized Certification: Apprentices receive GCAA-approved certification, making them eligible for employment in aviation across the UAE.
-
Career Pathway: Successful candidates can start their career with flydubai, gaining long-term growth opportunities within the airline.
-
Hands-on Experience: Apprentices will work on live aircraft, learning real-world skills that prepare them for the challenges of aviation engineering.
Bridging Education and Industry
Binkherbash highlighted the importance of the programme in connecting education with practical industry experience:
"The successful enrolment of our first batch has shown how vital this programme is in preparing Emirati youth for aviation careers. With the new batch, we look forward to welcoming more young people passionate about engineering, aviation, and innovation."
flydubai’s apprenticeship programme is designed not only to provide technical knowledge but also to instill a sense of professionalism, responsibility, and innovation in the participants. By blending classroom learning with hands-on work, the programme ensures that apprentices are ready to meet the high standards of the aviation industry.
Supporting Emirati Talent Across Aviation
The Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering Apprenticeship is part of flydubai’s wider commitment to develop UAE National talent. The airline has several initiatives aimed at professional growth:
-
Ab Initio Pilot Training Programme (MPL): Training Emirati cadets to become professional pilots.
-
Cadet Pilot Programme: Providing structured training for future airline pilots.
-
Internships and Work Placements: Offering young UAE Nationals opportunities to gain practical experience across different departments.
These programmes reflect flydubai’s long-term strategy to create skilled homegrown talent, strengthen the workforce, and support the airline’s ambitious growth plans.
How to Apply
Applications for the new batch of the Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering Apprenticeship open in September 2025. Interested candidates can visit careers.flydubai.com to learn more about the eligibility criteria, application process, and programme details.
Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate motivation, passion for engineering, and a strong interest in aviation. This is an opportunity not only to gain technical knowledge but also to build a rewarding career with one of the UAE’s leading airlines.
About flydubai
flydubai is a Dubai-based airline committed to connecting people and supporting the UAE’s vision for skilled national talent. The airline has grown rapidly since its establishment and continues to invest in programmes that nurture Emirati talent, strengthen the aviation sector, and provide career opportunities across multiple disciplines.
By offering initiatives like the Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering Apprenticeship, flydubai aims to inspire young UAE Nationals to pursue careers in aviation, ensuring that the country has a highly skilled workforce for the future.
The flydubai Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering Apprenticeship is a fully sponsored, four-year programme for Emirati youth aged 17–24. It offers theoretical and practical training, GCAA-approved certification, and the chance to begin a career as a certified Aircraft Technician with flydubai. This programme strengthens the link between education and the aviation industry, supports UAE National talent, and contributes to the growth of the country’s aviation sector. Applications open in September 2025 through the official flydubai careers portal.
