New L3Harris and Spirit Program Takes Flight

New L3Harris and Spirit Program Takes Flight

Wanna fly? L3Harris' new partnership with Spirit Arlines is designed to expand the pipeline of skilled professional pilots. The Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway program is located in Sanford, Florida. L3Harris' Flight Academy is located near one of Spirit's largest operations in Orlando, Florida, which means program graduates will have opportunities to build relationships and access the training facilities.

Headquartered in Melbourne, Florida, L3Harris provides advanced defense and commercial technologies across space, air, land, sea and cyber domains. L3Harris has more than $17 billion in annual revenue and 47,000 employees, with customers in more than 100 countries.

"L3Harris is a great partner for us because of its history of developing highly skilled pilots through state-of-the-art technology training with a modern fleet, as well as a commitment to safety and excellence," said Ryan Rodosta, Senior Director of Flight Operations and System Chief Pilot at Spirit Airlines. "Our fleet is growing fast, creating plenty of opportunities for L3Harris graduates and the next generation of pilots to build their future at Spirit."

The Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway program will mentor future Spirit First Officers. Candidates may apply for the program after completing the L3Harris Flight Academy training and accruing 500 total flight hours. If they fly through the interview process with soaring colors, they'll receive mentorship, a Spirit Electronic Flight Bag and a conditional offer of employment. They can then continue to work towards the required hours for an Airline Transport Pilot certificate. 

"Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway demonstrates the confidence international airlines have in our training, and the program ensures students have access to mentoring and employment opportunities at one of the leading airlines in the U.S.," said David Coward, VP and General Manager for L3Harris Training Services.


Spirit is expanding rapidly with new stations starting operations across the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean. The carrier is also adding dozens of new aircraft, with 33 more planes projected for delivery in 2023. The growth provides First Officers with opportunities to quickly upgrade to Captain and fly some of the newest aircraft in the industry. Spirit's Pilots also receive great training and enjoy some of the best quality of life in the aviation field.

To learn more about the program and application process, visit Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway Program | L3Harris

SOURCE: Spirit Airlines via PR Newswire