United Airlines is accepting applications as it embarks on a plan to train 5,000 new pilots by 2030, at least half of them women and people of color.
United has also finalized partnerships with three HBCUs, Delaware State University, Elizabeth City State University, and Hampton University, to identify top talent for its Aviate program. Aviate is the first pilot training academy operated by an airline.
Airlines are facing a pilot shortage even with the downturn resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic. Many pilots took early retirement as carriers offered buyout packages.
As more people are vaccinated, airline travel has increased at higher than expected rates.
Through the partnership, students will have the opportunity to join Aviate and connect with ambassadors and coaches.
DSU’s aviation program has long been a pathway for those seeking to become commercial pilots
Backed by scholarship commitments from United Airlines and JPMorgan Chase, United Aviate Academy will create thousands of student opportunities.
For United Aviate Academy students who may need additional financing, United has partnered with Newark-based Sallie Mae to offer private student loans. United Aviate Academy expects to enroll 100 students in 2021.
“Over the next decade, United will train 5,000 pilots who will be guaranteed a job with United, after they complete the requirements of the Aviate program – and our plan is for half of them to be women and people of color,” said United CEO Scott Kirby. “We’re excited that JPMorgan Chase has agreed to support our work to diversify our pilot ranks and create new opportunities for thousands of women and people of color who want to pursue a career in aviation.”
To break down the financial barriers that limited access to the airline pilot career path for generations of women and people of color, United has committed to fund $1.2 million in scholarships. The airline’s credit card partner, JPMorgan Chase has also committed $1.2 million to support women and people of color accepted to United Aviate Academy.
United will leverage its long-standing relationships with various organizations, including the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, Sisters of the Skies, the Latino Pilots Association, and the Professional Asian Pilots Association to help identify and steer highly qualified, diverse candidates to the United Aviate Academy.
Frontier to fly from Philly to Portland, Providence
Frontier Airlines announced two new nonstop routes from Philadelphia to Portland, ME and Providence, RI. With the addition of the new service, Frontier now offers 25 nonstop destinations from Philadelphia International Airport.
Frontier also offers a three-day-a-week service between Orlando and the New Castle Airport. Frontier has vowed to remain patient and build up traffic on the route before adding other cities.
In 2015, Frontier pulled out of New Castle after adding and quickly dropping several nonstop routes that included Detroit and Atlanta.
“We’re excited to grow again at Philadelphia International Airport with new nonstop flights to Portland and Providence,” said Daniel Shurz, senior vice president of commercial Frontier Airlines. “At Frontier, we’re focused on delivering ‘Low Fares Done Right,’ and constantly look for new travel opportunities for our customers. These new routes will now provide an affordable and convenient option for Philly area travelers to visit these two unique destinations this summer.”
| SERVICE TO | SERVICE START | SERVICE FREQUENCY | INTRO FARE | APPLICABLE DAYS FOR INTRO FARE |
| Portland International Jetport (PWM) | July 13, 2021 | 4x Weekly | $29* | Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday |
| T.F. Green Airport (PVD) | July 12, 2021 | 3x Weekly | $29* | Monday, Wednesday |
Amtrak offers twofer sale for sleeping compartments
Amtrak is offering a fare sale for those who add a sleeping compartment during a long-distance trip.
You can book a Roomette for travel from June 1 to Sept. 30 you can bring a friend for free. Fares are less than $1,000 for two people traveling from Wilmington to Orlando.
Amtrak is promoting its upgraded sleeping service that comes with a personal attendant, complimentary meals, and lounge access.
Tickets must be purchased by April 16 for late spring or summer travel.
