February 17, 2026

Leading Edge Aviation to Welcome 20 New Cadets as Jet2.com Relaunches Its Jet2FlightPath Programme 

Leading Edge Aviation is delighted to once again be selected as one of Jet2.com’s Approved Training Organisations (ATOs) for its fully funded pilot training initiative, Jet2FlightPath, following a successful inaugural year. This continued partnership marks another exciting milestone as Jet2.com reopens applications for its groundbreaking programme.

Now entering its second year, Jet2FlightPath has already sponsored 60 exceptional aspiring pilots across three leading training providers, 20 of whom are currently progressing through training at Leading Edge Aviation. With the programme expanding to fund a further 60 candidates this year, even more future aviators will gain access to a fully sponsored Integrated Commercial Pilot Training pathway, a route that typically costs over £100,000. This transformative initiative reflects a shared commitment between Jet2.com and Leading Edge Aviation to break down financial barriers and open the industry’s door to talented individuals from all backgrounds.

Applications for the upcoming intake open on 17th February 2026, with full details on eligibility and application requirements available online.

Open to All: Inclusivity and Opportunity at the Heart of Jet2FlightPath

With inclusivity and opportunity at its core, Jet2FlightPath is open to applicants from all walks of life who meet the entry criteria, including five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above (with Maths, English, and a Science subject required). The programme is specifically designed to attract, support, and develop high‑calibre candidates who will contribute to Jet2.com’s continued growth as one of the UK’s most successful airlines.

Successful candidates will embark on an intensive, fully funded Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) programme at one of Jet2.com’s partner training organisations in the UK or Spain, including Leading Edge Aviation. Upon completion, trainees will progress to a Type Rating on either Boeing or Airbus aircraft before joining Jet2.com’s innovative “Discovery 360 Programme”—an immersive introduction to the airline’s entire operation ahead of joining its expanding pilot workforce.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2 said: 

“We are delighted to reopen applications for Jet2FlightPath after a phenomenal response to the first year of the programme. Our fully-funded pilot training programme helps overcome the cost of training and is already making the dream of flying a reality for many who thought it was beyond their means. We are very proud of the success that the programme is already having in terms of opening up flying for everyone, and we look forward to receiving applications for this year.”

Andy McFarlane, CEO of Leading Edge Aviation, commented:

“We are incredibly proud to play a pivotal role in this remarkable initiative once again. Our first cohort has settled seamlessly into academy life and is already demonstrating the professionalism and passion that define the next generation of aviation excellence. The relaunch of Jet2FlightPath highlights both our organisations’ commitment to making pilot training more inclusive and accessible, and we are honoured to help shape the highly skilled pilots of tomorrow.”

Jet2.com’s strong growth trajectory continues as the airline expands its fleet of 140 aircraft operating across 14 bases, with a projected 20.1 million passengers expected in 2026. Leading Edge Aviation is proud to help support this next chapter, reaffirming its position at the forefront of modern pilot training.

NOTES FOR EDITORS

Media Enquiries

GEORGINA MARSHALL 

Marketing Manager 

07484 402167
Get in touch with Georgina

More about Leading Edge Aviation
Leading Edge Aviation is a rapidly expanding pilot training academy with a fresh approach and an emphasis on holistic training. Offering the highest standards of regulatory technical training, students also benefit from a comprehensive professional and personal development curriculum to enhance non-technical skills.

Leading Edge delivers modular (including Ground School, MECPL, CBIR, MEIR, uMAP (university Modular Airline Preparation), A-UPRT (Advanced Upset Prevention Recovery Training), APC MCC (Airline Pilot Standards Multi Crew Co-operation), LEAP (Leading Edge Airline Preparation) course; a full-time integrated course with BSc degree and a comprehensive graduate airline selection preparation workshop.

Based at London Oxford Airport, Leading Edge students receive wellbeing support, along with the most advanced learning aids. Virtual and mixed reality tech, and neuro training techniques are used to embed and refine new knowledge and skills, creating pilots who enter the industry airline ready, with strong leadership skills.

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