This initiative is designed to create a streamlined pathway for U.S. military-trained rotary-wing aviators to transition their helicopter piloting expertise into becoming first officers at JetBlue.
JetBlue has introduced its latest endeavor, the Gateway Rotor Transition Program (RTP), marking the eighth installment of its renowned Gateway development programs. This innovative initiative is designed to create a streamlined pathway for U.S. military-trained rotary-wing aviators to transition their helicopter piloting expertise into becoming first officers at JetBlue. The Gateway RTP program has partnered with SkyWarrior Flight Training LLC in Pensacola, Florida, to offer a tailored training regimen. In addition to established training modules, participants will be immersed in JetBlue’s operational philosophy, procedures, and insights, delivered by experienced JetBlue pilots with prior military rotary wing experience.
The program is set to offer a limited number of spots for its inaugural class, scheduled to begin in the fall of 2023. JetBlue has plans to scale up this initiative in the coming years, with the aim of accommodating more veterans looking to transition into commercial aviation careers.
Warren Christie, Head of Safety, Security, Fleet Operations, Airports, and JetBlue University, Jetblue said, “We’re incredibly proud to support our veterans, both customers and crewmembers alike. With Gateway RTP, we will provide these accomplished U.S. military rotary wing aviators the additional skills and certifications necessary to bring their professional experience and technical abilities to JetBlue.”
The Gateway RTP curriculum is designed to optimize training by providing early exposure to Part 121 aviation concepts and philosophy, along with integrated full-motion simulator training. The program also leverages concepts with which the candidates are already familiar, such as crew resource management and threat and error management, and demonstrates how they apply to commercial airline operations through customized progression modules.
Upon successfully completing the program’s requirements, participants will earn their fixed-wing Private Pilot through Commercial Multi-Engine Certificate before moving on to Jet Transition training at JetBlue University and ATP/CTP course completion.
“Training military pilots is at the foundational core of SkyWarrior’s business, and the Rotor Transition Program is one of the most satisfying training models we have been a part of. It is a privilege to work with such professional pilots and help bridge the gap to propel them into a new career…. It’s just really something special to be a part of,” said Gregory Sigler, vice president, SkyWarrior Flight Training LLC. “We started our first RTP program in 2017 and it is just unbelievable to see so many of our former students living their dream as professional airline pilots. These former service members and their families have sacrificed so much, it is just an honor to be the vehicle that propels them to the next step in their aviation journey,” he further added.
JetBlue’s Gateway programs have been a hallmark of the company’s commitment to developing aviation talent. With its 15th year underway, these initiatives have provided a continuous influx of skilled pilots to JetBlue. The airline’s Gateway programs extend beyond pilot pathways, also offering avenues for aviation maintenance technicians.
JetBlue’s Gateway Rotor Transition Program (RTP) is a pioneering initiative designed to facilitate the seamless transition of U.S. military-trained rotary wing aviators into the world of commercial aviation. The program offers a comprehensive training experience that bridges the gap between military helicopter piloting and becoming a first officer at JetBlue.
“We’re proud of the incredible talent pipeline we’ve built with our Gateways,” said Nancy Hocking, Director Gateway Programs, JetBlue. “Not only does it provide a clear path for future pilots and technicians, by making these careers more accessible to talented individuals who might not have thought of them as a real option, we’re opening opportunities to a much larger audience while maintaining the highest standards required of these critical roles,” he further added.
A key aspect of the Gateway RTP is the early exposure it provides to Part 121 aviation concepts and philosophy. Through integrated full-motion simulator training, participants gain an in-depth understanding of commercial airline operations. The program also leverages concepts with which candidates are already familiar, such as crew resource management and threat and error management. These concepts are examined in the context of commercial aviation, enhancing participants’ ability to apply them effectively.
As participants progress through the program, they complete foundational training that culminates in earning their fixed-wing Private Pilot through Commercial Multi-Engine Certificate. This is followed by Jet Transition training at JetBlue University and successful completion of the ATP/CTP course, which prepares them for the role of a first officer.
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Upon successfully meeting the requirements of the Gateway RTP, participants enter the ranks of JetBlue’s 5,000 pilots. Many of these experienced pilots continue to contribute by sharing their insights, serving as mentors, and guiding future aviators. This network of expertise not only reflects the success of JetBlue’s training programs but also plays a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals.
