The Emirates is the largest airline in the world with 185 destinations across 85 countries. It has the largest number of Airbus and family aircraft. The Emirates, an airline based in Dubai the United Arab Emirates, is a subsidiary of the Emirate Group company which fully belongs to the government of Dubai’s Investment Corporation of Dubai and was founded in 1985 by Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
The airline has a fleet size of 266 generating revenue of over 32 billion USD with employee size of over a thousand. The Emirates operates a mix of Airbus A38 and Boeing wide-body aircraft craft 777 (family size aircraft) and is one of few airlines to operate all wide-body aircraft. As of March 2023 Emirates has the largest A38 and Boeing 777 with 121 and 134 fleet sizes respectively.
How to Become an Airline Professional Pilot
To start with who is an airline pilot? An airline pilot is a professional who operates and navigates aircraft for airlines. They are responsible for flying commercial passengers or cargo safely and efficiently to their destinations. Airline pilots undergo extensive training and must meet certain qualifications, including obtaining licenses and certifications, before being authorized to fly commercial aircraft. Commercial aircraft usually have 2 pilots the commander or captain and the second pilot/copilot/first officer who work together using the various parts of the aircraft to navigate the air space effectively to ensure proper takeoff and landing.
To become a professional pilot you must have the following;
- Bachelor’s Degree: Must have a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Administration or Engineering from a recognized aviation college or university
- Pilot license: to be certified to fly a plane you must have learned basic maneuvers, how to handle emergencies, and prepare for flight by flying small aircraft on your own.
- Obtain instrument rating: once a pilot acquires the basic pilot license, he must learn to use various sophisticated instruments to navigate planes in different climates, altitudes, and temperatures.
- Acquire a commercial pilot license: only after acquiring this incense is an individual qualified to transport humans and cargo from one destination to the other
- Acquire multi-engine rating: for a pilot to work in an airline that travels internationally, he must be able to handle large aircraft with multiple engines like turboprop and turbo projects.
- Gather more experience and flight time: to be a certified Airline Transport Pilot (ATPL) you must have a flight time of at least 1500 hours cutting across night time, cross country, and other specifications required by The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
- Obtain Airline Transport Pilot License: this is the highest qualification a pilot can acquire from the FAA, to obtain this certificate, the pilot must have more than the minimum 1500 hours of flight time operating as both captain and first officer.
How to Become a Pilot in the Emirates Airline
- Must be technically efficient and motivated to work hard
- You can start your career as the first officer for 700 hours
- You must have completed 2 Pilot Proficiency Checks ( PPCs ) before the upgrade
- The prospective pilot must have not less than 7000 hours of experience with multi-engine and multi-crew aircraft. It’s to be noted that only real-time operation is considered not the time spent on a simulator.
- The pilot must have 3000 hours of experience with commercial flights carrying weights of over 50 tons
- Valid ICAO ATPL with unrestricted medical class 1 that has been issued by the same authority.
- Must have passed the English proficiency class of level 5
- Must have flown for not less than 150 hours in the last 12 months or travel with a flight carrying over 50 tons of weight on board.
How much do Emirates Airlines pay their pilots?
The salary of a pilot at Emirates Airline can vary based on various factors such as experience, rank, and aircraft type. However, according to various sources, the average salary for a First Officer at Emirates Airline ranges from $9,000 to $12,000 per month, while the average salary for a Captain can range from $11,000 to $16,000 per month. Additionally, pilots may also receive benefits such as housing, education allowances, and annual leave.
Here is the breakdown of Emirates pilots’ salaries according to their ranks
First Officer | Captain |
Starting: $5,663/month | Starting: $8,084/month |
Average:$6,373/month | Average: $9,098/month |
Top: $6,761/month | Top: $10,548/month |
10 Reliable and Cost-Effective Airlines for Travel within Nigeria
When it comes to air travel in Nigeria, finding a reliable and cost-effective airline is crucial for a smooth journey. Here are 10 airlines that offer both affordability and reliability for domestic travel:
Arik Air
Arik Air is one of Nigeria’s largest airlines, known for its extensive domestic route network and reliable service. With competitive fares and a focus on customer satisfaction, Arik Air is a popular choice for travelers flying within Nigeria.
Air Peace
Air Peace is a Nigerian airline that prides itself on its safety record, punctuality, and affordable fares. With a growing fleet and a wide range of domestic destinations, Air Peace provides travelers with a reliable and cost-effective option for domestic travel.
Dana Air
Dana Air is a Nigerian airline offering domestic flights to major cities across the country. With its commitment to safety and efficiency, Dana Air provides travelers with a convenient and affordable way to explore Nigeria.
Med-View Airline
Med-View Airline is known for its competitive fares and reliable service on domestic routes in Nigeria. With a focus on customer satisfaction and safety, Med-View Airline offers travelers a comfortable and cost-effective option for domestic travel.
Max Air
Max Air is a Nigerian airline that operates domestic flights to various destinations within the country. With its modern fleet and affordable fares, Max Air provides travelers with a reliable and efficient way to travel within Nigeria.
Azman Air
Azman Air is a Nigerian airline known for its affordable fares and convenient flight schedules. With a focus on customer service and safety, Azman Air offers travelers a reliable and cost-effective option for domestic travel.
Overland Airways
Overland Airways is a Nigerian airline that specializes in serving underserved destinations within the country. With its focus on safety and reliability, Overland Airways provides travelers with a convenient and affordable way to explore Nigeria’s diverse landscapes.
Aero Contractors
Aero Contractors is one of Nigeria’s oldest airlines, offering domestic flights to various destinations across the country. With its commitment to safety and efficiency, Aero Contractors provides travelers with a reliable and cost-effective option for domestic travel.
Green Africa Airways
Green Africa Airways is a Nigerian airline that aims to provide affordable and reliable air travel within Nigeria. With its modern fleet and competitive fares, Green Africa Airways offers travelers a convenient and cost-effective option for domestic flights.
Ibom Air
Ibom Air is a Nigerian airline that operates domestic flights to and from Akwa Ibom State. With its focus on safety and customer satisfaction, Ibom Air provides travelers with a reliable and comfortable way to travel within Nigeria.
10 Reliable and Cost-Effective Airlines for Travel Outside Nigeria
Here are 10 airlines that offer both reliability and affordability for travel outside Nigeria:
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines consistently ranks among the top airlines for its reliability, affordability, and excellent customer service. Operating primarily in the United States, Southwest offers budget-friendly fares and a comprehensive route network, making it a favorite among travelers.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways is renowned for its comfortable cabins, complimentary amenities, and competitive fares. Serving destinations across the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America, JetBlue provides travelers with a reliable and cost-effective option for domestic and international travel.
Norwegian Air Shuttle
Norwegian Air Shuttle is a leading low-cost carrier in Europe, known for its affordable fares and extensive route network. With flights to destinations across Europe, North America, and Asia, Norwegian offers travelers a budget-friendly option for exploring diverse destinations around the globe.
AirAsia
AirAsia is Asia’s largest low-cost carrier, offering affordable flights to destinations across Asia and beyond. With its efficient service and extensive route network, AirAsia provides travelers with a reliable and cost-effective option for exploring the vibrant cultures and landscapes of Asia.
EasyJet
EasyJet is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers in Europe, offering affordable fares and a wide range of destinations. With its modern fleet and efficient service, EasyJet provides travelers with a convenient and cost-effective option for exploring Europe’s diverse cities and landscapes.
Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air specializes in offering low-cost flights to leisure destinations in the United States, including Las Vegas, Orlando, and Myrtle Beach. With its focus on affordability and convenience, Allegiant provides travelers with a budget-friendly option for exploring popular tourist destinations.
Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines is known for its ultra-low fares and no-frills approach to air travel, making it a preferred choice for budget-conscious travelers in the United States and the Caribbean. With its extensive route network and competitive fares, Spirit offers travelers an affordable option for domestic and international flights.
Ryanair
Ryanair is Europe’s largest low-cost carrier, known for its affordable fares and extensive route network across Europe and North Africa. With its focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness, Ryanair provides travelers with a budget-friendly option for exploring Europe’s diverse destinations.
Flydubai
Flydubai is a low-cost airline based in Dubai, offering affordable flights to destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. With its modern fleet and competitive fares, Flydubai provides travelers with a reliable and cost-effective option for exploring diverse destinations around the world.
Wizz Air
Wizz Air is a Hungarian low-cost airline known for its affordable fares and extensive route network across Europe and beyond. With its focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction, Wizz Air offers travelers a convenient and cost-effective option for exploring Europe’s vibrant cities and cultural attractions.