Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) has officially joined Allegiant Air’s Accelerate Pilot Pathway Program, offering EKU students an exclusive fast-track to the airline industry. EKU’s Aviation program, known for its impressive 100% job placement rate and innovative program, now stands alongside other prestigious institutions in the Accelerate Pilot Pathway program, including Purdue University, Kent State University and the University of North Dakota. This partnership provides EKU students with unmatched opportunities to launch their airline career.

“Our partnership with Allegiant Air is a significant milestone for EKU Aviation,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Joining their Accelerate Pilot Pathway program expands opportunities for our students and demonstrates the competitiveness of our program nationwide. We are excited to offer our students a direct path to success in the airline industry.”

Upon entering their senior year, students may be hired on as a cadet and provided a conditional job offer as an Allegiant first officer. Cadets will enjoy Allegiant employee benefits such as pass travel on Allegiant flights, participation in visits to Allegiant’s headquarters in Las Vegas, and access to Allegiant’s training centers. Once a cadet reaches their required hours of flight training, Allegiant will sponsor their attendance in an Airline Transport Pilot Certification course, and upon completion, will join Allegiant as a first officer.

“We are thrilled to welcome EKU into our Accelerate Pilot Pathway Program,” said Tyler Hollingsworth, Allegiant’s senior vice president of Flight Operations. “Their dedication to preparing the next generation of aviation professionals aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering growth and opportunity for aspiring pilots. This partnership gives EKU students a direct pathway to meaningful, impactful careers, helping us bring skilled pilots into the industry.”

Following a press conference, Allegiant provided a presentation and meet and greet with EKU Aviation students, then toured the Central Kentucky Regional Airport (CKRA). The airport, home to EKU’s Aviation program, was awarded $3.5 million in federal funding in April to construct a general aviation terminal. EKU will be matching $1 million of the funding awarded, bringing the total funding to $4.5 million. CKRA is the third busiest general aviation airport in the state.

EKU was among the nation’s first FAA-approved 1,000-hour Restricted ATP institutions to help meet the demand for pilots amid a national pilot shortage. EKU Aviation offers several concentrations for students interested in the airline industry, including Professional Flight, Aerospace Management, Aerospace Technology and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).