Emirates Airlines Pilot Selection Process: Tips for Aspiring First Officers

Emirates is one of the most coveted airlines in the World to work for. And, naturally, they have of the most rigorous pilot selection processes a new pilot is going to face. The process is demanding: it requires applicants to pass several pilot aptitude tests (Raven tests), go through a team-oriented exercise selection process and even show off their adaptability skills by taking a complex flight simulator test. However, just because it’s complex, doesn’t mean that You can not pass it. After all, as most pilot career mentors tell you: “As a pilot, you don’t have to be excellent in the aviation field and sub-par in other fields. You need to be above average in EVERYTHING”. Confused? Translation: if you are an “above average” pilot – you will get into Emirates with a little of work and perseverance.

So, are you targeting Emirates for your employment and curious about the intricacies of the Emirates pilot selection process and how to navigate it successfully? If so, keep reading for an insightful breakdown of the stages involved and valuable tips to help you ace the process.

The Stages of Emirates Pilot Selection

Emirates’ rigorous pilot selection process encompasses several pivotal stages, offering a comprehensive evaluation of candidates:

1. Online Application: The journey commences with an online application submitted through the Emirates careers website. As part of this initial step, candidates are required to furnish their resumes, cover letters, and other essential documents. (Use our tools to prepare for the application by building a perfect resume >)
2. Online Assessments: Shortlisted candidates advance to the online assessment phase. These assessments gauge various aspects, including cognitive abilities, personality traits, and situational judgment.
3. Video Interview: Successfully passing the online assessments paves the way for a video interview. This interview delves into the candidate’s background, their motivation for pursuing a career with Emirates, and their adaptability to a multicultural working environment.
4. Assessment Center: Candidates who successfully progress are invited to an assessment center, a pivotal juncture where they undergo an array of tests and exercises. This includes group exercises, psychometric tests, and a simulator assessment. (See Emirates question bank here >>>)
5. Final Interview: The last leg of the selection process entails a face-to-face interview with senior management. Those who emerge victorious at this stage receive the coveted job offer.

Top Tips for Aspiring Emirates Pilots

For those with dreams of soaring as Emirates pilots, consider these valuable tips to enhance your prospects:

1. Company Research: Prior to applying, invest time in thorough research about Emirates. Understanding the company’s values, culture, and history allows you to tailor your application to align with the company’s ethos.
2. Prepare for Assessments: The online assessments are designed to evaluate your cognitive abilities, personality traits, and situational judgment. Practice the Raven test assessments online to acclimatize yourself to the testing environment. (Register for free Raven tests here >)
3. Showcase Your Skills: In your application, highlight your skills and experiences with specificity. Offer real-life examples illustrating how you’ve utilized your skills in previous roles or experiences.
4. Interview Preparation: Adequate preparation is key for the video interview and assessment center. Delve into common interview questions and practice responding in a clear, concise manner.
5. Cultural Adaptability: Given Emirates’ multicultural setting, being flexible and adaptable to diverse cultures and working styles is essential.

By adhering to these tips and arriving well-prepared, your chances of earning a coveted pilot position with Emirates are notably enhanced.

Ready to Start Preparing?

If you’re eager to commence your preparation, several websites and resources are available to help you conquer the online assessments required for the Emirates pilot application. Here are some helpful links to get you started (Google the website below):

1. Practice Reasoning Tests: This website offers complimentary practice tests for various reasoning categories, including numerical, verbal, and abstract reasoning assessments—frequently featured in pilot selection evaluations.
2. AssessmentDay: Offering free practice aptitude tests similar to those found in pilot selection assessments, this site also provides advanced paid tests for more in-depth preparation.
3. Emirates Careers Website: Explore the dedicated pilot recruitment section on the Emirates careers website. It offers insights into the recruitment process and the assessments you can anticipate.
4. Pilot Aptitude Testing: Tailored practice tests designed explicitly for pilot selection assessments are available on this website. Various paid packages include practice tests, video tutorials, and detailed feedback.
5. JobTestPrep: An extensive resource, this website provides a range of preparation materials for pilot selection assessments. From aptitude tests to personality assessments and interview readiness, they offer comprehensive packages with full-length practice tests and personalized feedback.

These resources will help you familiarize yourself with the tests and assessments commonly used in pilot selection, ultimately increasing your chances of success in the Emirates pilot selection process.

Are you not a pilot yet? Well, we have great programs that will qualify you for the Emirates employment requirements of a full ICAO ATPL and 2000 hours on a jet. This FPAP-C program (and FPAP-IND program for Indian students) is recommended for those who target Emirates!