Alaska Airlines Builds a Path for Hawaiʻi’s Aspiring Pilots
Three aspiring pilots from Hawaiʻi soar to new heights through Alaska Airlines’ pilot development programs, opening doors to aviation careers.
Erikah Dowells always dreamt of a career in the skies. Growing up in Hawaiʻi, she traveled between Maui and Hawaiʻi Island, developing a passion for flying. At 12, she participated in a program that ignited her interest in aviation, but the path to becoming a commercial pilot seemed uncertain due to its cost and complexity.
That all changed when she discovered the Horizon Air Pilot Development Program. This initiative offers mentorship, networking, and educational stipends, providing a clear route to becoming a Horizon Air first officer.
Alaska Airlines offers several pilot training programs, including Ascend Pilot Academy, which supports students from the start of their training, and True North, a recruitment program for BIPOC pilots. Internships are also available for college students and recent graduates, like Maui native Bianca Vasquez-Abarca. Through her internship, she gained firsthand experience flying with Alaska Airlines.
Oʻahu resident Apryl Binuya joined the Pilot Development Program in 2021. She received strong mentorship and support, which helped her navigate training and secure a position as a first officer at Horizon.
For these pilots, Alaska Airlines’ programs have not only provided career opportunities but also built a community of support. “Alaska wants to see the next generation succeed,” Erikah shares, reflecting on her journey.
Become a Pilot with Alaska Air Group:
Applications for the Horizon Air Pilot Development Program are open from August 1 to September 30, 2024. Other program applications open in October and November. For more information, visit Alaska Airlines’ careers page.
