Stay Current PSA Newsroom
December 6, 2025
What Is the Cadet Program?
Many aspiring pilots ask the same question: How do I go from earning my Private pilot license to sitting in the right seat of an airliner? The answer often lies in a cadet program – a structured, guided pathway that bridges the gap between flight training and professional airline flying.
At PSA Airlines, the Cadet Program is a clearly defined opportunity to launch a career with a trusted carrier. Through the Cadet Program, student pilots receive mentorship, a structured route to the flight deck and potential financial support, all backed by the stability of the American Airlines Group.
This guide answers the question “what is the cadet program” and explores how our program works, who qualifies, and what benefits and challenges aspiring pilots should consider before taking flight.
What Is an Airline Cadet Program?
A cadet program is a formalized training-to-employment pipeline that connects flight schools, colleges and universities with airlines. PSA’s Cadet Program assigns students to actual PSA Pilots to act as mentors, receive tips/tricks while time building, and potential financial support.
How PSA’s Cadet Program Works
Our cadet program creates a clear, structured path from the first license to the flight deck of PSA Airlines. Applicants begin with at least a private pilot certificate and progress toward commercial and ATP qualifications through a flight school, college or university.
Cadets benefit from our strong relationships with schools across the country, receiving direct mentorship from PSA pilots and recruiters. Our program is open to all colleges, universities and flight schools in the nation. As cadets progress, they may become eligible for financial support through tuition assistance.
Each interview at PSA represents a milestone. Cadets advance through multiple levels, gaining access to exclusive PSA resources, events, and mentoring opportunities. Once all required hours and certifications are achieved, participants interview for a First Officer role at PSA Airlines, with the opportunity to complete their technical interview early. Upon passing PSA First Officer training and two years as a Captain, they become eligible for flow to American Airlines, creating a transparent and predictable career pathway.
Eligibility & Requirements
To qualify, candidates must meet several prerequisites:
- Licensing: A private pilot license is required before application.
- Medical Standards: Applicants must be able to hold an FAA First Class Medical Certificate.
- Education & Citizenship: Cadets must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. and meet all age and academic qualifications.
- Flight Experience: As students progress, they’ll accumulate the hours necessary to meet commercial and ATP minimums.
- Commitment: If a Cadet accepts an offer to PSA Airlines, they agree to complete training within the PSA framework and fulfill employment obligations upon reaching qualification milestones.
Our selection process also includes application review, interviews, and aptitude assessments that evaluate technical ability, communication, and situational awareness –skills critical to airline operations.
Benefits of Joining PSA’s Cadet Program
When weighing Airline Cadet Programs, carefully consider what each has to offer and how it would benefit your path in particular. Here’s what sets PSA apart:
1. A Clear Career Path
Cadets progress through different levels as they accumulate time that takes them from school to airline employment without ambiguity. It’s a guided route that eliminates the stress of post-training uncertainty.
2. Financial Support
With tuition reimbursement, cadets can receive meaningful help covering training expenses.
3. Mentorship & Development
Cadets gain mentorship from current PSA pilots and recruiters who share insight into real-world airline operations, cockpit procedures, and professional development.
4. Flow to American Airlines
Upon meeting flight and performance requirements, PSA pilots have a guaranteed path to American Airlines through our flow program.
What makes PSA’s Cadet Program stand out is our accessibility from all flight schools, colleges and universities, and direct flow to American Airlines. The stability and backing of the American Airlines group makes it one of the most attractive routes for aspiring aviators.
Challenges & Trade-Offs
The Cadet Program is meant to guide aspiring Pilots through their journey to the flight deck, however, potential Cadets should keep the following in mind.
- Performance Standards: Falling short of benchmarks can delay advancement through the program
- Financial Commitments: Though PSA can offer reimbursement, cadets are still responsible for meeting costs associated with flight training.
Tips for Aspiring Cadets
1. Master the Basics Early
Strong fundamentals in navigation, aerodynamics, and instrument knowledge are the backbone of success in any cadet program.
2. Research Before You Apply
Each program offers unique benefits and commitments, so be sure to review the program details closely. For more details we recommend connecting with a recruiter at Cadetinfo@psaairlines.com, or visiting our website at psaairlines.com/cadets.
3. Prepare for Assessments
Study for your aptitude and technical evaluations early – these often include strong technical knowledge, situational judgment, and teamwork exercises.
4. Prioritize Discipline and Consistency
Airline training rewards structure and focus. Meeting milestones on time will keep your path to the cockpit smooth.
5. Stay Connected and Informed
Networking can open doors and provide valuable support along the journey. We recommend engaging with mentors, joining aviation communities, and keeping pace with evolving industry standards.
Your Flight Path Starts Here
PSA’s cadet program transforms uncertainty into opportunity – offering structure, mentorship, and a defined route to the flight deck.
At PSA Airlines, this pathway is designed for ambition. With potential financial assistance, expert mentorship, and direct flow to American Airlines, our Cadet Program gives aspiring aviators the resources and confidence to launch their careers.
Ready to take your next step? Visit the cadets page and begin your journey toward the cockpit today.
