Gateway University—Flight Ops

Students in flight programs at partner colleges and universities can fly nonstop to first officer via a prescribed, time-building pathway.

Isaac LaPlante | Gateway University | Current JetBlue First Officer, A320, BOS

 
 
 

Our classic route to first officer.

The first of our JetBlue Pilot Gateway Programs®, Gateway University is the longest-running path program for aviation college students. Gateway University was launched in 2008 and allows students majoring in flight programs at one of our partner colleges/universities to earn a conditional job offer for a position as a first officer at JetBlue. 

Once accepted, students complete their flight training and education in their program and then follow one of several prescribed paths to gain experience and build their flight time. Provided they meet all program requirements and pass required background and other related checks, those in the program will join JetBlue as first officers and will not be required to complete any additional JetBlue interviews.

 
 

HOW IT WORKS

The path to first officer via Gateway University.

 
 
 
 

  • Apply and be selected.

    Apply and be accepted as a Gateway University participant and earn a conditional job offer for a position as a JetBlue first officer.

  • Study and train.

    Graduate from your flight program at a partner college/university . Serve as a certified flight instructor at your school for at least 500 hours of dual given.

  • Gain experience.

    Fly for Cape Air, JSX, Tradewind Aviation or a Part 121 regional carrier to meet the flight time requirements and complete your full commitment with the carrier (as applicable). Attend the jet transition course (as applicable).

  • JetBlue onboarding.

    Successfully complete all requirements to become a JetBlue first officer, including but not limited to a background check, drug/alcohol testing, PRIA review and Pilot Hiring Committee final approval.

 

Eligibility requirements.

Gateway University essential training/experience-building framework includes:

  • Graduate from the designated program at a partner college/university

  • Serve as a certified flight instructor at partner school for at least 500 hours of dual given

  • Employment at partner or 121 regional airline to meet program flight time requirements

  • Meet all requirements of employment as a JetBlue Pilot Trainee

  • New Hire Training as a JetBlue First Officer

Minimum Requirements for program:

  • Must successfully complete the entire selection process, including application and interview

  • Upon completion of program must have ability to meet all requirements in JetBlue’s Pilot Trainee requisition

 

Participating schools.

If you are a student at Auburn University, Aviatior College, Bridgewater State University, Broward College, Elizabeth City State University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Prescott, Farmingdale State College, Florida Tech, Hampton University, Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, Jacksonville University, Kent State, University of North Dakota, or Vaughn College, you can apply and interview while still in college. The Gateway University program continues to evolve and additional schools may be added over time.

 
 

 HOW TO APPLY

Land your dream job with Gateway University.

 
 

  • Step 1

    Have an instrument rating and be a student at one of our partner colleges/universities.

  • Step 2

    Submit your application.

  • Step 4

    Successfully complete the selection process.

  • Step 5

    Successfully meet all program requirements.

Get in touch.

Have a question that isn’t answered on the Gateway program pages or in our FAQ? Use the form to contact the Gateways team.

Please note: This form does not constitute an application and does not enable email updates.