Delaware State Joins Atlas Air’s University Pathway Program for Pilots

Becomes the First Historically Black College or University to Join the Program

December 7, 2023 – Atlas Air, Inc., a subsidiary of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc., today announced Delaware State University (DSU) has joined its University Pathway Program for pilots. Through this program, Atlas Air will recruit, hire and train qualified graduates of DSU to fill high-demand careers for the next generation of pilots.

Founded in 1891, DSU is one of the nation’s premier Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) with a rich history of cultivating top-tiered talent. The university’s aviation program is dedicated to setting the highest standards in aviation education and related training, aiming to nurture highly accomplished aviation professionals with a global perspective. This mission aligns seamlessly with Atlas Air’s commitment to growing a diverse and highly skilled talent pipeline.

“Deepening our relationships with HBCUs is an important component of our recruiting and talent strategy, enabling us to raise awareness of Atlas Air as an employer of choice for an increasingly diverse population of students for our highly competitive pilot careers,” said Patricia Goodwin-Peters, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Atlas Air Worldwide.

“I want to thank Atlas Air for pursuing this relationship with Delaware State University and specifically our Aviation Program. This partnership agreement allows Atlas Air to recruit DSU graduates as pilots flying cargo aircraft, at the beginning of their careers,” said Michael Hales, Director of Aviation Programs at Delaware State University. “This is an unprecedented level of partnership between a major cargo air carrier with this University.”

 Program Criteria

Delaware State University graduates selected to take part in the program will be granted preferential interviews with Atlas Air. To be considered, candidates must meet these and other criteria:

• Must maintain a 3.0 GPA.
• Graduate with the required courses completed to qualify for a Restricted ATP after accumulation of required minimum flying time and experience.
• Serve as a CFI at DSU’s Aviation Program until reaching the R-ATP minimums or with another affiliated 141 flight training school if released by DSU.
• The ability to hold a First Class FAA Medical Certificate.
• No more than two (2) training failures on required ratings, excluding private pilot certificate.
• Letter of recommendation from the Chief Flight Instructor and Director of Aviation Programs (or designated alternate).
• Reach R-ATP eligibility and required minimum flying experience within two years of graduation (extenuating circumstances will be considered).

Candidates will also need to submit an application, resume and introduction detailing their aviation journey and career aspirations. For complete details, and to determine eligibility, DSU students should contact LTC (R) Michael Hales, Director of Aviation Programs.

About Delaware State University:

Delaware State University was founded in 1891 and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Its main location is in Dover, yet DSU offers courses throughout the state of Delaware.

About Atlas Air Worldwide:

Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services. It is the parent company of Atlas Air, Inc., and Titan Aviation Holdings, Inc., and is the majority shareholder of Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. Our companies operate the world’s largest fleet of 747 Freighter aircraft and provide customers the broadest array of Boeing 747, 777, 767 and 737 aircraft for domestic, regional and international cargo and passenger operations.