Student Pilot GX-01
Class of 2026
Applications for the Student Pilot GX-01 program opened in Thailand from August to September 2025, followed by the selection examination in October 2025. Three successful candidates were selected and began their flight training in Canada in 2026.
Building on this foundation, FIA Pilot plans to expand recruitment across Asia in 2027, with Singapore serving as the regional center for future recruitment and development.
Admission Assessment
11 October 2025
A total of 54 candidates participated in the admission assessment held at Thammasat University in Bangkok, Thailand.
Direct Entry Deadline
30 September 2025
The Direct Entry pathway was open to graduates from all engineering disciplines. Five candidates applied through this pathway.
Final Interview
19 October 2025
From a total of 59 applicants across both pathways, 16 candidates advanced to the final interview.
Final Selection Result
30 October 2025
Three candidates successfully completed the assessment and interview process and were selected for the FIA Pilot GX-01 Class of 2026.
October 2025
The Beginning of the Journey
Following the written examination in October 2025, 16 shortlisted candidates advanced to the final interview at Thammasat University in Bangkok. This marked the final stage of the selection process for the FIA Pilot GX-01 Class of 2026.
July 2026
Arrival in Vancouver
The selected candidates began arriving in Canada between July and October 2026 to commence their flight training. Individual arrival dates varied depending on each candidate’s visa processing and approval timeline.
Upon arrival at Vancouver International Airport, the students received arrival assistance and transportation to their accommodation before beginning their aviation training in Canada.
August 2026
The First Milestone
The first student pilot from the FIA Pilot GX-01 Class of 2026 successfully completed his first solo flight within just six weeks of beginning flight training. This marked a significant early achievement, following the completion of the required radio qualification, Aviation Language Proficiency Demonstration, Category 1 Medical Certificate and PSTAR examination. His first solo flight represents an important step forward in his journey toward becoming a professional pilot.
September 2026
Friendship Beyond the Cockpit
Flight training is more than learning to fly. Throughout their journey in Canada, Student Pilot GX-01 trainees build meaningful friendships, share experiences with fellow student pilots from around the world, and create unforgettable memories that will stay with them long beyond their training.
September 2026
Cross-Country Training Begins
Following the successful completion of the first solo flight, Student Pilot GX-01 has now begun cross-country flight training. This stage focuses on navigation, flight planning, and building the practical skills required for longer-distance flight operations.
Student Pilot GX-01
Program Timeline Update
This timeline presents the planned development pathway for Student Pilot GX-01, from professional flight training in Canada to gaining industry experience and pursuing a future career as an airline pilot. Each stage is designed to support the students as they progress toward their long term aviation goals.
2026-2027
Professional Flight Training
Year 1-2
• Train at a Canadian DLI approved flight school
• Complete PPL, CPL and Flight Instructor Rating
• Gain approximately 200 to 250 flight hours
• Expected duration of approximately 24 months
2028
Flight Instructor Pathway
Year 3
• Opportunity to apply for flight instructor positions
• Build teaching experience and additional flight hours
• Eligible graduates may apply for a PGWP of up to three years
• Employment is subject to eligibility and availability
2028-2030
Building Flight Experience
Year 4-5
• Continue building professional flight experience
• Opportunities may include flight instruction, ferry flights and charter operations
• Work toward the flight hours required by airline employers
• Target approximately 500 to 750 total flight hours
2031-2032
Airline Career Pathway
Year 6-7
Apply for airline positions after meeting individual airline requirements
• Continue building experience toward commercial airline operations
• Some positions may require 1,500 flight hours or more
• Employment depends on qualifications and recruitment availability
Potential Future Airline Career Pathways
• Air Canada
• WestJet
• Air Transat
• Jazz Aviation
• Singapore Airlines
• Cathay Pacific Airways
• Japan Airlines
• VietJet Air
• Emirates
• Qatar Airways
• Etihad Airways
FIA PILOT PODCAST
FIA Pilot Podcast brings together nationally recognized pilots for exclusive conversations with the FIA Pilot Thailand team. Through their real stories and professional experiences, viewers gain valuable insight into pilot training, aviation careers, and life beyond the cockpit.
Our goal is to feature more than 100 pilots within three years. In 2027, the project will expand internationally with the launch of the English language FIA Pilot Podcast Global, featuring pilots from around the world.
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