Pegasus Airlines Pilot Selection: The Full Picture
Pegasus at a Glance
Fleet
~130
A320neo / A321neo
Destinations
153
54 countries
Main Hub
SAW
Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen
Questions
224
In our Prep Pack
Company Profile
Pegasus Airlines is Turkey's leading low-cost carrier, headquartered at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side of the Bosphorus. Founded in 1990 as a charter joint venture with Aer Lingus, Pegasus was acquired by ESAS Holding in 2005 and relaunched as a scheduled LCC. It now ranks as Turkey's second-largest airline by fleet size (behind Turkish Airlines but ahead of AJet, SunExpress, and Corendon) and is Europe's seventh-largest airline by seat capacity. The airline operates a "network LCC" model — using Istanbul as a connecting hub between Europe, the CIS, Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia, capturing transit traffic that pure point-to-point carriers cannot serve.
Fleet & Scale
The fleet is one of the youngest in the world. As of early 2026, Pegasus operates approximately 130 aircraft: 9 Boeing 737-800s (legacy fleet), 9 Airbus A320ceos, 46 A320neos, and 60+ A321neos, with an average fleet age of just 4.5–4.9 years — earning it the world's second-youngest fleet award from ch-aviation in 2025. The airline serves 153 destinations across 54 countries, carrying over 37.5 million passengers annually. CEO Güliş Öztürk has positioned Pegasus as a digitally-focused carrier with the motto "Your Digital Airline" and strong sustainability commitments targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Growth Trajectory — 737 MAX 10 & Smartwings
The growth trajectory is ambitious. In December 2024, Pegasus placed a historic order for 200 Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft (100 firm, 100 options) — the largest single order in the airline's history, valued at approximately USD 36 billion at list prices, with deliveries starting from 2028. This was followed in December 2025 by the acquisition of Smartwings and Czech Airlines for EUR 154 million, marking Pegasus's first entry into the Central European market. Combined with existing A321neo orders, Pegasus is building toward a 250+ aircraft operation spanning two brands across Turkey and Europe.
Hiring Outlook
For pilots, the combination of fleet expansion, the Smartwings integration, and the 737 MAX 10 transition means significant hiring demand across the next decade. The airline employs approximately 6,900 people and is actively recruiting both Turkish and international pilots to support growth. The selection process is conducted in Istanbul and is notably direct — fewer stages than Gulf or Lufthansa Group carriers, with a strong emphasis on the simulator check and board interview.
Online Application & Document Review
Apply via flypgs.com or recruitment agencies — licence, hours, documents screened
Board Interview
Panel interview in Istanbul — HR + 2 captains, English + Turkish questions, height/weight check (~40 minutes)
A320 Simulator Assessment
Full-flight A320 simulator — PF and PM roles, normal + emergency procedures (~2 hours)
English, Behavioural & Psychological Evaluation
English proficiency testing, behavioural assessment, psychological screening
Medical & Background Checks
SHGM Class 1 medical, licence validation, background verification
Stage 1: Online Application & Document Review
Application Channels
Pegasus recruits through two channels: directly via the careers section on flypgs.com, and through specialist aviation recruitment agencies (such as Aviation Agent Asia, which has handled multiple Pegasus recruitment campaigns for international pilots). The application requires standard documentation: CV, licence copies, medical certificate, logbook summary, and passport. Pegasus accepts SHGM (Turkish DGCA), EASA, FAA, and ICAO-compliant licences.
Minimum Requirements
For Captains, minimum requirements include an ATPL, English proficiency Level 4 or above, recent experience on the Airbus A320 family, minimum flying hours as specified by the licence-issuing country, born after January 1, 1965, and a clean personal and flight record. For First Officers, similar standards apply with adjusted hour requirements. The airline also evaluates type-rating currency — candidates with a current A320 type rating are strongly preferred, though non-type-rated applicants with relevant multi-crew jet experience are considered.
Timeline Expectations
The document review is thorough but can be slow. Candidate reports indicate that the period between application submission and first contact varies significantly — from as little as 2 weeks to 5–7 months, depending on fleet demand and the volume of applications being processed. Pegasus tends to recruit in waves aligned with seasonal demand and fleet delivery schedules rather than continuously, so timing matters. If you apply during a quiet period, expect a longer wait.
Stage 2: Board Interview
Panel Composition
Candidates who pass the document screening are invited to Istanbul for a board interview. The panel typically consists of one HR representative (or psychologist) and two Pegasus captains. The interview lasts approximately 40 minutes and follows a structured format that begins with height and weight measurement — a standard requirement in Turkish aviation recruitment that may surprise international candidates unfamiliar with the practice.
Bilingual Questioning
The questioning starts in English and transitions to Turkish for Turkish-speaking candidates. For international pilots, the entire interview may be conducted in English. The English section covers standard competency-based questions: motivation for joining Pegasus, previous operational experience, CRM scenarios, decision-making under pressure, and knowledge of Pegasus operations. The captains on the panel assess technical competence through focused questions on A320 systems, general ATPL knowledge, and operational procedures. Expect direct questions about specific aircraft systems — Pegasus captains are known to probe until they find the limits of your knowledge.
Behavioural Assessment
The behavioural and psychological component evaluates personality fit, stress management, and interpersonal skills. One Glassdoor reviewer from November 2024 described the process as starting with basic measurements, followed by English questions, then Turkish questions, lasting about 40 minutes total. The overall atmosphere is described as professional but direct — Turkish aviation culture values straight communication and operational competence over polished interview performance.
"Four steps total. They measure your height and weight, then a general talent test. If you pass, there's an English speaking interview, and after that the final interview. The whole thing is efficient — no wasted time." — Glassdoor, Pegasus Airlines interview, Istanbul, February 2025
Stage 3: A320 Simulator Assessment
Format & Duration
The simulator assessment is conducted in an Airbus A320 full-flight simulator in Istanbul and lasts approximately 2 hours. Candidates are assessed in both Pilot Flying (PF) and Pilot Monitoring (PM) roles across scenarios that include normal operations and emergency procedures. The assessment is designed to evaluate the full range of pilot competencies — not just stick-and-rudder skills but procedural compliance, communication, CRM, decision-making, and workload management.
Type-Specific — Not Raw Data
Based on Pegasus's own assessment documentation and candidate reports, the simulator profile covers standard departure and arrival procedures, instrument approaches, engine failure management, and non-normal situations requiring structured decision-making. Candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency with Airbus A320 procedures and flows — this is a type-specific assessment, not a generic raw-data exercise. If you are not current on the A320, invest in simulator preparation before attending. Several preparation providers (including Easyflight Training and specialist A320 assessment courses) offer sessions specifically calibrated to the Pegasus simulator profile.
Competency-Based Grading
The assessment criteria are structured around defined pilot competencies with minimum acceptable grades in each area. These competencies include: application of procedures, aircraft flight path management (manual and automated), communication, leadership and teamwork, problem solving and decision making, situation awareness, and workload management. Candidates who fall below the minimum in any single competency area may not progress, regardless of strong performance in other areas — the system is designed to identify well-rounded pilots, not specialists.
"The sim assessment is about 2 hours. You fly as PF and PM. They want to see solid A320 handling, good SOPs, and CRM — how you communicate, how you manage workload, how you handle an engine failure. Be current on the type. This is not a raw-data test — they expect Airbus procedures." — Candidate report, Pegasus assessment, pilot forum, 2024
Stage 4: English, Behavioural & Psychological Evaluation
English Proficiency
Depending on when the board interview and simulator take place, English proficiency testing, behavioural assessment, and psychological evaluation may be conducted separately or integrated into the assessment day. Pegasus requires a minimum of ICAO English Level 4 — candidates without a valid ELP certificate may be tested during the assessment process. For international pilots, English is the working language in the cockpit, though Turkish is used in some ground communications and internal briefings.
Personality & Behavioural Screening
The behavioural and psychological evaluation goes beyond the interview-format questions from Stage 2. Pegasus assesses personality traits relevant to multi-crew operations: stress tolerance, adaptability, conflict resolution, authority gradient management, and cultural flexibility (important given Pegasus's diverse route network spanning Europe, CIS, and Middle East). The format may include standardised personality inventories (questionnaire-based) and/or structured behavioural observation exercises.
CASE Test — Cadets Only
For cadet candidates entering through the MPL programme (see below), this stage is replaced by the CASE (Computer Assisted Selection and Evaluation) psychometric battery — a 90–120 minute computerised test covering 9 modules with 3 phases each, evaluating cognitive abilities, psychomotor skills, spatial orientation, attention, memory, and multitasking under progressive workload. Direct entry pilots do not take the CASE test but undergo equivalent evaluation through the board interview and separate psychological assessment.
Stage 5: Medical & Background Checks
SHGM Medical
Candidates who pass all assessment stages must obtain a SHGM (Sivil Havacılık Genel Müdürlüğü — Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation) Class 1 Medical Certificate. The Turkish aviation authority is the regulatory body for all commercial aviation in Turkey, and all pilots operating for Turkish-registered carriers must hold a valid SHGM-recognised medical. Candidates with existing EASA or FAA Class 1 medicals can typically have these recognised or converted, though the specific process depends on the issuing authority and may require additional examinations.
Licence Validation
Foreign licence holders must also complete the SHGM licence validation process, which involves submitting their foreign ATPL/CPL for verification and obtaining a Turkish licence endorsement or conversion. This process can take several weeks and should be initiated as early as possible once a conditional offer is made. Pegasus provides guidance on the validation process, but candidates are ultimately responsible for ensuring their documentation is complete and compliant.
Background Checks & Timeline
Background checks include verification of previous employment, flight record review, and standard security screening. The overall process from conditional offer to start date — including medical, licence validation, and background checks — typically takes 4–8 weeks for pilots already based in Turkey or holding EASA licences, and potentially longer for pilots converting from other regulatory frameworks.
Pegasus Cadet MPL Programme
Programme Structure
Pegasus operates a Multi-Pilot License (MPL) cadet programme designed to train future pilots from zero flight experience. The programme — marketed as "Pegasus Pilot Training Program" — is structured to produce Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 qualified pilots through a comprehensive training pipeline that includes ground school, simulator training, and supervised line flying. Entry requirements include a bachelor's degree from a Turkish university (or YÖK equivalency certificate for foreign university graduates), English proficiency (IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL iBT 75+, or iTEP Academic Plus 3.5+), and meeting age and medical requirements.
CASE Psychometric Test
The cadet selection process is significantly different from direct entry. Candidates first complete English placement tests, followed by the iTEP exam (Listening and Speaking sections). Those who pass receive an invitation for the CASE (Computer Assisted Selection and Evaluation) psychometric assessment — a demanding 90–120 minute computerised battery consisting of 9 modules with 3 phases each, evaluating cognitive capacity, psychomotor coordination, spatial orientation, attention, memory, and multitasking under progressively increasing workload. The CASE test is similar to SkyTest modules used in Lufthansa Group selections and is considered the primary filter for the cadet programme. There are no breaks between modules.
Training Pathway to Line Operations
Successful CASE candidates proceed to a Board Interview and, upon passing, enter the training programme which includes ground school, simulator training at the Pegasus facility, and a Base Check on an actual aircraft. This leads to LIFUS (Line Flying Under Supervision) — typically 100 hours or 40 sectors under the supervision of an experienced captain — after which cadets begin flight duties as Second Officers. The programme recruits annually, with the most recent recruitment cycle starting in June 2025. Cadets should budget approximately USD 100,000–120,000 for the self-sponsored programme.
"I passed the Pegasus CASE test recently. The AvioTest application I used during preparation was very close to the actual exam — the module logic, task combinations, and tempo matched well. The CASE is 9 modules with no breaks, about 90 minutes. Spatial orientation and multitasking are the hardest modules." — Successful Pegasus cadet candidate, AvioTest testimonial, 2025
Pegasus Pilot Assessment Preparation — Sample Questions
Preparing for the Pegasus pilot assessment? Below are three questions from our Pegasus question bank with the coaching frameworks that candidates use to prepare. The first shows the complete answer — all paragraphs, tips, and airline-specific context. Each of the 255 questions in the full pack averages 600 words of structured coaching per answer.
You are conducting an ILS approach to SAW in fog. At 300ft, you see the approach lights but not the runway. What do you do?
Position Assessment — Above DA — At 300 ft on an ILS approach to SAW in fog, you are above the Decision Altitude for a CAT I ILS (DA typically around 200 ft AGL at SAW). You have visual contact with the approach lights but NOT the runway itself. At this point, the approach is still valid — you continue descending toward DA while actively looking for the required visual references. The approach lights visible at 300 ft are a positive sign that visibility is near the CAT I minimum (RVR 550 m), but approach lights alone do not constitute the visual reference required to land.
What You Need at DA — Under ICAO and SHGM regulations (aligned with EASA standards), to continue below DA on a CAT I ILS, the pilot must have in sight at least one of the following: elements of the approach light system, the threshold, threshold markings, threshold lights, the runway end identifier lights, the visual approach slope indicator (PAPI/VASI), the touchdown zone, touchdown zone markings, or touchdown zone lights. Approach lights ARE on this list — but critically, if you can see approach lights only and nothing else at DA, some operators restrict the descent below DA to no lower than 100 ft above the touchdown zone elevation unless the runway or runway markings become visible. Check Pegasus SOP for the specific company limitation — this varies between operators.
Decision at DA — The Critical Moment — At DA, if you see only approach lights: you may continue the approach below DA (per most CAT I rules, approach lights are sufficient to continue), BUT you must see the runway environment (threshold, touchdown zone, or markings) before reaching the visual segment below 100 ft above TDZE. If at any point below DA you lose visual reference or cannot identify the runway, you execute an immediate go-around — no hesitation. The correct callouts at DA: if visual reference is adequate, PM calls 'Runway in sight' or 'Approach lights in sight, continuing'; if not, PM calls 'Go around' and the PF initiates the missed approach. On the A320neo, in Normal Law, the go-around is initiated by pressing the TOGA buttons — pitch 15° nose-up, follow the SRS guidance.
SAW-Specific Considerations — This scenario is routine at SAW during winter fog season (November–March). The ILS on RWY 06L (ISAB, 109.90 MHz) and RWY 24R (ISBH, 110.90 MHz) are CAT I only — there is no CAT II or CAT III capability to fall back on. The published warning that autopilot-coupled approach below 554 ft is not recommended means you may be hand-flying the final segment in 550 m RVR visibility — demanding precise instrument technique.
If you go around, the missed approach for RWY 06 routes you toward rising terrain (Kocaeli hills east of the field) — follow the published procedure precisely. If SAW goes below minimums during the approach, your pre-briefed alternates (IST, ESB, ADB, Yenişehir) become your next destination. The panel wants to see that you understand this is a disciplined DA decision, not a gamble.
Tip: At 300 ft with approach lights only: CONTINUE toward DA (you are above DA). At DA with approach lights only: most CAT I rules permit continuing below DA, but you MUST see runway/threshold before landing. If visual reference is lost below DA: IMMEDIATE go-around. Know SAW ILS: CAT I only, RVR 550 m, no CAT II/III. Mention the RWY 06 missed approach terrain consideration. This tests precision instrument knowledge AND decision discipline.
5 coaching paragraphs + tips · this level of detail for every question
You are operating the last sector of a long day from Antalya back to SAW. It is night, the weather at SAW shows 300ft broken cloud with 1,500m visibility in fog patches, crosswind 18kt gusting 26kt. Your captain, who has been quiet all day, begins the approach without a full briefing. What do you do?
I Would Assess Whether I Can Complete the Sector Safely — If operating the last sector from Antalya to SAW late at night after a long day, I would honestly evaluate my fatigue state. If I am fatigued but manageable — I would increase automation, share tasks, and maintain discipline. If I am genuinely impaired, I would call operations before departing Antalya. It is far better to declare fatigue at the outstation than to discover mid-flight that I cannot concentrate.
+ 5 more paragraphs + tips in the full version
What is the B737 manual reversion capability and how does it differ from the A320?
B737 Manual Reversion — The Boeing 737 is designed to be flyable with complete hydraulic failure through manual reversion. The flight controls (ailerons, elevator, rudder) are connected to the control surfaces via cables and push-rods — physical mechanical linkage. With total loss of Systems A, B, and Standby, the pilot can still move the control surfaces by direct physical force through the control column and rudder pedals. However, manual reversion requires substantial physical effort because there is no hydraulic assistance — control forces increase significantly, particularly at higher speeds.
+ 5 more paragraphs + tips in the full version
255 Pegasus questions with full coaching frameworks
Technical Interview (122) · HR Interview (99) · Simulator Assessment (15) · Written Test (12)
255
questions
~600
words per answer
30
airlines total
Lifetime access · Alternatives charge €130+ for 90-day subscriptions
What Successful Candidates Say
Based on candidate reports across Glassdoor, PPRuNe, AvioTest alumni, and pilot recruitment agencies, here are the patterns that separate successful Pegasus candidates from those who do not progress:
The A320 Simulator Is Type-Specific — Be Current
Unlike some Gulf carriers that test basic raw-data airmanship, Pegasus expects you to demonstrate A320 proficiency: proper Airbus procedures, correct use of automation, and standard flows for normal and non-normal situations. If your A320 type rating is not current, book refresher sim sessions before the assessment. Candidates who arrive expecting a generic handling test and are confronted with type-specific procedural scenarios underperform. The 2-hour session evaluates PF and PM roles — prepare for both, including monitoring callouts and threat-and-error management from the right seat.
Know Pegasus Beyond "Turkish Low-Cost Carrier"
The board interview panel includes Pegasus captains who have built their careers at the airline. They want to hear that you understand what makes Pegasus distinctive: the network LCC model (connecting CIS to Europe through Istanbul), the youngest fleet in Turkey, the 737 MAX 10 order and what it means for capacity growth, the Smartwings acquisition and European expansion strategy, the BolBol loyalty programme, and the airline's sustainability commitments. Mentioning that Pegasus is Europe's seventh-largest carrier by seat capacity — not a small regional operator — demonstrates that you have done your research.
Prepare for Direct, No-Nonsense Questioning
Turkish aviation culture values straight communication. The board interview is efficient — typically 40 minutes with three panellists. There is less small talk than in British or Gulf-style interviews. Captains will ask pointed technical questions and follow up if your answer lacks depth. The height and weight measurement at the start may feel unusual if you have not experienced it before, but it is standard practice in Turkish airline recruitment. Stay focused, answer concisely, and do not attempt to bluff technical knowledge — the captains will find the gaps quickly.
Understand the Istanbul Operation
Pegasus's main hub is Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), not Istanbul Airport (IST) where Turkish Airlines operates. SAW is one of Europe's fastest-growing airports, handling over 40 million passengers annually with a single runway. This creates a high-tempo operational environment with tight turnarounds, challenging weather (Black Sea fog, crosswinds), and complex airspace coordination with IST traffic. Demonstrating awareness of SAW's operational characteristics — and how they differ from IST — signals operational maturity.
"The assessment is straightforward — document review, board interview, simulator. They value competence over polish. Know your A320 systems, be honest about your experience limits, and show that you understand what Pegasus is building. The fleet growth is real — they need pilots and they know it." — Pilot assessment forum, Pegasus candidate, 2025
Quick Salary Reference (2026)
Salary Structure
Pegasus pilot salaries are competitive within the Turkish market and are structured as a combination of base salary, sector bonuses, overnight allowances, and annual bonuses. Salaries are paid in a combination of Turkish lira and foreign currency components. Turkey levies income tax on salary earnings, so figures below are net (after tax) estimates based on recruitment agency postings and community reports. For comparison, Turkish Airlines First Officers earn approximately USD 7,000–11,000 per month and Captains USD 14,500–16,500 per month.
| Rank | Monthly Net (USD/EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Officer (entry) | $6,800–$7,400 NET | Base + sector bonus, varies by roster option |
| First Officer (experienced) | $7,400–$8,500 NET | Higher experience grade, instructor opportunities |
| Captain | €12,000–€15,000 NET | Upgrade: 1,000 hrs at PGS + 4,000 total hrs |
Figures from Aviation Agent Asia recruitment postings, Easyflight Training job listings, and PPRuNe community data (2024–2025). Net after Turkish income tax. Benefits: insurance, accommodation + transport on duty, meal card, travel discounts, social/fitness club, annual bonuses. Roster: 6/1 pattern with 7 days off minimum per month (Turkish law). Hotel accommodation provided for first 9 months for foreign recruits. Turkish lira volatility affects USD-equivalent values.
Sources & Methodology
Research Methodology
This guide is compiled from the official Pegasus Airlines careers portal (flypgs.com), Glassdoor interview reviews (2024–2025), PPRuNe forum discussions (Pegasus interview threads), Aviation Agent Asia recruitment documentation, Easyflight Training job postings and preparation materials, AvioTest CASE preparation platform data, CadetPro Pegasus test preparation content, ch-aviation fleet data, Pegasus press releases (fleet orders, Smartwings acquisition), and pilot assessment preparation provider briefings. Question content in our Interview Prep Pack is sourced directly from candidate reports — each question shows its source type and confidence level.
Turkish Aviation Comparisons
Pegasus's recruitment process evolves over time. While we verify content regularly, always check the Pegasus Airlines careers page for the most current requirements and open positions. This guide was last updated in April 2026.
For Turkish aviation comparisons, see our Turkish Airlines interview guide (130 questions, Istanbul selection). For other regional carriers: flydubai, Emirates, or Wizz Air.