German Airways, in cooperation with the flight school TFC Flight Training, is introducing a new pilot training program. Starting in the 2026 academic year, the two-year Multi-Crew Pilot Licence (MPL) training program will be offered for the first time. The program is specifically designed for applicants without prior flying experience and includes theoretical training, a type rating for the Embraer E190 aircraft, and subsequent line training within the airline's operations. The goal is to recruit qualified personnel directly for its own fleet, which is operated on a wet-lease basis for well-known European airlines.
Additional industry analyses show that German Airways is responding to the increasing shortage of skilled cockpit pilots with this move. While traditional training paths often build upon a private pilot's license, the MPL training focuses from the outset on teamwork within a multi-person crew and the requirements of modern airliners. The theoretical part of the training takes place primarily at TFC Flight Training's location in Essen. TFC is one of the most experienced training institutions in Germany and has state-of-the-art flight simulators certified for the Embraer fleet. The selection process for the first course is expected to be completed by the end of March 2026, with applicants required to have at least a university entrance qualification and be at least 18 years old.
Financing training costs often presents a hurdle for aspiring pilots, which is why German Airways refers them to external training loans. Unlike large corporate training programs of previous decades, the student pilots here bear the financial risk themselves, although cooperation with specialized banks is intended to facilitate access to loans. To inform potential candidates about the details, the airline is hosting an information day on February 28, 2026, at its headquarters in the ABC Tower in Cologne. In addition to the structure of the 24-month training program, the event will also cover subsequent employment opportunities and career paths within the Zeitfracht Group, to which German Airways belongs.
Experts view the introduction of the "WingsUp" program as a strategic investment in the airline's operational independence. Training on the specific Embraer E190 aircraft eliminates the need for lengthy retraining processes after recruiting from the open market. German Airways currently operates one of the largest E190 fleets in Europe and serves routes on behalf of partners such as KLM and Luxair. The new program thus ensures that the planned fleet growth can be supported by the necessary personnel. The application process is conducted exclusively via an online portal, with selection criteria including not only academic performance but also psychological and coordination aptitude tests.