Ryanair to recruit 2,000 pilots over next three years

Ryanair has announced plans to recruit 2,000 new pilots to crew aircraft deliveries over the next three years as it looks to rebuild after taking a hit from the Covid-19 pandemic.

The budget airline said on Monday that it has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737-8200 Gamechanger aircraft, which will help it lower costs, cut fuel consumption and reduce noise and CO2 emissions.

"This investment in new aircraft arriving through the recovery phase of the Covid-19 pandemic deepens Ryanair’s environmental commitment as Europe’s greenest, cleanest major airline and also creates these exciting opportunities for experienced and aspiring pilots to secure the best pilot jobs in aviation," it said.

Ryanair said most Captain vacancies created by the new aircraft deliveries will be filled by internal promotions, creating opportunities for replacement First Officers, and ultimately new cadet pilots who can kickstart their pilot career with the group.

Darrell Hughes, Ryanair’s People Director, said: "This is great news for experienced and aspiring pilots but also for our own pilots who will enjoy fast tracked promotions. Throughout the pandemic, Ryanair has worked closely with our people to save jobs and we are delighted to start planning for a return to growth over the coming years as we recover from the Covid-19 crisis and grow to 200m guests by FY2024."