Bahrainis aged 18 to 30 years will now have the opportunity to acquire the highest standard of pilot licence thanks to a cadet pilot training programme. 

The scheme is a joint venture between the investment arm of Bahrain government Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding, Bahrai Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) and Tamkeen, Bahrain's Labour Fund.

Under the agreement, pre-selected Bahraini graduates can undertake internationally certified commercial pilot training programmes by attending Mumtalakat's soon to be launched pilot and crew training subsidiary Gulf Aviation Academy.

BDB will offer loans to cadets and Tamkeen will pay the interest on the loans.

With a total budget of more than BD6 million from BDB and Tamkeen, the programme aims to train 100 pilots starting July to qualify for their airline transport pilot's licence.

'This is an excellent initiative for Bahrainis and for the nation's economy,' said Mumtalakat chief executive officer Talal Al Zain. 'By working together, Mumtalakat, BDB and Tamkeen can offer Bahraini graduates the opportunity to train for their commercial pilot's licence in Bahrain rather than training abroad.

'It also offers a great opportunity for Gulf Aviation Academy, which will offer pilot and crew training to Bahrainis and airline personnel from across the region.”

“Commercial piloting is a high-value job and will generate significant social and economic benefits for Bahrain's economy and help to meet the growing demand for pilots,” Al Zain added.

'This is the first step in a long-term government strategy to help develop Bahraini skills and talent for the aviation industry. We're delighted to be playing our part in supporting the nation's 2030 Vision.'

The academy will be the first to be based in Bahrain. – TradeArabia News Service