Emirates Flight Training Academy (EFTA) is the world's most advanced flight training institution, launched in 2017 by the Emirates Group in Dubai. Purpose-built from the ground up with a $135 million investment, EFTA features its own dedicated airport, 32 modern training aircraft including jets, and a curriculum designed by Boeing. With over 270 graduates—many now flying Emirates A380s and 777s—EFTA offers an unparalleled pathway from zero experience to airline-ready pilot in approximately two years.
EFTA at a Glance
Program Cost
$181,650
All-inclusive
Duration
~104
Weeks
Fleet Size
32
Aircraft
Graduates
270+
Since 2020
Academy Overview
EFTA is a subsidiary of the Emirates Group, the parent company of Emirates Airline—the world's largest international carrier. The academy occupies a purpose-built 12.5 million sq ft campus (equivalent to 200 football fields) at Dubai South, adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport.
World-Class Facilities
- • Own dedicated 1,800m runway
- • Independent ATC tower
- • 36 interactive classrooms
- • 6 full-motion flight simulators
- • Maintenance hangar
- • Fire & rescue services
Key Advantages
- • Direct pathway to Emirates Airline
- • Training on 4 aircraft types (unique)
- • Boeing-designed curriculum
- • GCAA + EASA dual licensing
- • All-inclusive residential program
- • Year-round flying weather
Emirates Career Pathway
Over 120 EFTA graduates are now flying as First Officers for Emirates on widebody aircraft including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777. Graduates who meet Emirates' standards have a direct application pathway to the airline.
Training Program
The Integrated ATPL program takes cadets from zero flying experience to commercial pilot certification with multi-crew cooperation training. The curriculum combines over 1,100 hours of ground instruction with 270+ hours of flight training.
| Phase | Duration | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Ground School | 52 weeks | 1,100+ hours ATPL theory, Boeing software |
| Single-Engine | ~20 weeks | Cirrus SR22 G6, PPL/CPL training |
| Multi-Engine Piston | ~8 weeks | Diamond DA42NG, MEP rating |
| Jet Training | ~12 weeks | Embraer Phenom 100EV, jet operations |
| UPRT | ~2 weeks | Gamebird GB1 aerobatic training |
| MCC | ~4 weeks | Multi-Crew Cooperation, simulator |
Four Aircraft Types
EFTA is one of the only academies in the world where cadets train on four distinct aircraft types before graduation: single-engine piston (Cirrus), multi-engine piston (Diamond), very light jet (Embraer), and aerobatic (Gamebird). This provides exceptional preparation for airline operations.
Fleet & Facilities
EFTA operates a fleet of 32 modern training aircraft, all equipped with glass cockpits and advanced avionics. The academy was among the launch customers for the Embraer Phenom 100EV jet trainer.
| Aircraft | Type | Qty | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cirrus SR22 G6 | Single Piston | 20 | PPL, CPL, IR training |
| Diamond DA42NG | Twin Piston | 5 | MEP rating |
| Embraer Phenom 100EV | Very Light Jet | 5 | Jet transition |
| Gamebird GB1 | Aerobatic | 2 | UPRT (±10g capable) |
Simulators
The academy operates six 6-axis full-motion flight simulators for instrument training, emergency procedures, and MCC. The 36 classrooms feature dual 86" touchscreens running Boeing-developed training software.
Costs & Inclusions
| Item | Included |
|---|---|
| Program Fee | USD $181,650 (inc. 5% VAT) |
| Flight Training | 270+ hours on 4 aircraft types |
| Ground School | 1,100+ hours ATPL theory |
| Accommodation | Private studio apartment on campus |
| Meals | Full board included |
| Materials | Uniforms, books, equipment |
All-Inclusive Model
EFTA's fee covers everything—no hidden costs. Cadets live in private studio apartments on campus with gym, pool, recreation facilities, and dining. This creates a focused learning environment and strong cadet community.
How to Apply
Entry Requirements
- Age 18+ at time of application
- High school graduation with Math and Physics
- IELTS 6.0 minimum (for non-native English speakers)
- Valid passport
- Class 1 Medical Certificate eligibility
Selection Process
- Online application submission
- Online pre-screening assessment
- Final assessment in Dubai (if successful)
- Offer letter and enrollment
Applications are accepted year-round. Files remain valid for 12 months. The Class of 2024 included cadets from 23 nationalities, with 27 women among the 290 active students.
Official Website: emiratesflighttrainingacademy.com
Location: Dubai South, Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), Dubai, UAE
License: GCAA (UAE) + EASA (2025)
Information accurate as of January 2026. Contact EFTA for current pricing and availability.