More than 300 applications have now been received by the Gulf Aviation Academy ("GAA") (under formation) for its High Flyer Program, it was announced today. The High Flyer Program offers young Bahrainis the opportunity to train to become commercial pilots. The number of applications by male and female Bahrainis had already exceeded expectations prior to the BD6 million program's deadline of 25 June for the first batch of students.
100 applicants will be selected to undertake the screening process which will be held at GAA's premises in Muharraq during the coming two weeks. Selected applicants will be contacted by GAA for information on screening date and time.
The program will train up to 100 cadet pilots to qualify for their Airline Transport Pilot's License ("ATPL") over 16-19 months. Led by Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company ("Mumtalakat") in partnership with Bahrain Development Bank ("BDB") and Tamkeen (Labor Fund), the High Flyer Program will enhance efforts towards training Bahrainis for the aviation industry to meet the increasing demand of the commercial aviation sector and to also create economic benefits for Bahrain as a whole.
Commenting on the program, Talal Al Zain, CEO of Mumtalakat, said, "We're delighted with the response that the High Flyer Program has seen. It's great to see that there's so much ambition and enthusiasm from Bahrainis for the aviation industry and we wish them the best of luck with their screening."
Open to any young Bahraini with no previous flying experience and who demonstrates the unique qualities needed to become internationally certified commercial pilots.
Mr. Nedhal Al Aujan, CEO of BDB, said: "we -as a development bank- are eager to boost and nurture our young Bahraini's varied visions which accordingly would create a spirited future. And we would like to express our overwhelming happiness to have this huge number of youngsters joining such a vital program in order to fulfill their intentions and accomplish their aspirations"
GAA also announced that almost 49% of the applications received were from university graduates (147 applications), and 39% of the applications were submitted by cadets graduating from Government schools (118 applications) and the remaining 12% were received from private school graduates (36 applications).
"Tamkeen's efforts to open new skies for Bahrainis in the aviation industry has captured the imagination of young and bright nationals", said Tamkeen Chief Executive Mr. Abdulelah Al Qassimi.
GAA is the first aviation academy to be based in Bahrain and will be managing the High Flyer Program. The first batch of cadets is scheduled to commence their training towards the last quarter of 2009.
-Ends-
About Mumtalakat:
Mumtalakat is the investment company for Bahrain, and was established as an independent holding company for the Government of Bahrain's non-oil and gas assets. With 35 commercial enterprises within its portfolio, Mumtalakat's investment strategy seeks to enter into partnerships with local, regional and global institutions targeting opportunities for long term, sustainable returns.
For more information on Mumtalakat please go to www.bmhc.bh
Media Contacts
Samer Al Shaikh
Corporate Communications & PR Manager
Mumtalakat
Direct: +973 17 5611 43
samer.alshaikh@bmhc.bh
Nada Abdulghani
Direct: +973 17 5611 78
Nada.abdulghani@bmhc.bh
© Press Release 2009
