ESA

Train for the job in the best possible conditions,
and give yourself every chance of success

Our programmes

Internationally recognised training of the highest standard

Ab initio training

Airline pilot

18 months full-time

XPNo previous experience required
Open to any high-school graduate
School approved by the European authority
100% taught in English

Leads to a European licence, valid to apply with airlines across Europe and beyond.

Explore the programme

Your rating

CPL-IR-ME

in 5 months

Illustration of an aircraft wing in flight

Everything included, no hidden costs:

96 flight hours
Exam fees
Accommodation
Flights

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Exclusive programme

Find The Right Seat

Our career placement programme supports every student from the end of training through to joining an airline. Individual mentoring, advanced courses and a professional network you will not find elsewhere.

90%

Placement rate

6 months

Average time

School life

News

Érine receiving her CPL-IR-ME course completion certificate at Cretan Eagle Aviation

2 April 2026

Érine completes her training in 18 months

Érine has finished her course, with the CPL commercial pilot licence and the IR and ME ratings in hand. Eighteen months: that is the advertised length of the Airline Pilot programme, and that is exactly how long it took. Certificate presented at Cretan Eagle Aviation. Next come the airline selections. Well done Érine!

Graduates of the 2025 Bachelor-Pilot class, in uniform

14 March 2026

Graduation ceremony for the class of 2025

The second class to graduate from the dual Bachelor-Pilot programme, a year after the first. Gowns, caps, families in the front row. The moment is shared with family, and that is what gives it meaning. Graduates leave with two qualifications: the Bachelor Universitaire de Technologie awarded by CY Cergy Paris Université, and the CPL professional pilot licence with IR and ME ratings. Enough to enter the profession with a real safety net.

Salomé and her instructor with the first solo flight certificate, at Cretan Eagle Aviation

4 March 2026

Salomé flies her first solo

First solo for Salomé: the first flight alone at the controls, the one you never forget. Certificate in hand alongside her instructor, at Cretan Eagle Aviation. One milestone passed, and the rest of the programme ahead. Well done Salomé!

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Far more than pilot training: a choice of excellence, and the experience of a life lived internationally.

Why choose ESA

The schedule is kept

We deliberately cap each class at 12 students so the flying schedule is strictly respected and everyone still gets individual attention.

International immersion

Training abroad opens the door to an exceptional career, and to an exceptional life.

International commercial airport

Being immersed in the world of commercial aviation from day one means picking up straight away the habits of the professional you are about to become.

Dedicated residence

Designed to build a family spirit during your downtime and study sessions, a comfortable and secure residence welcomes you just five minutes from the airport.

Airline selection preparation

This stage is missing from most courses, yet it is what makes you feel ready from your very first airline interview.

Going further

In depth

Modular training: what is it for?

Find out why our full modular course is a sound way to reach your goal of becoming an airline pilot. A flexible alternative to the integrated route, it lets you progress step by step towards the ATPL, combining freedom, financial safety and a tailored approach.

Read the article

The medical examination

Before starting pilot training, a Class 1 medical examination is mandatory. It covers detailed checks: eyesight, hearing and general health.

Read the article

Become an airline pilot while continuing your studies

A dual-degree programme to secure your employability

Our partners