United Airlines Pilot Recruitment Process 2026
Everything you need to know about the United Airlines pilot hiring process, from application to final assessment. Updated 2026-03-01.
| Hiring status | Active— applications open |
|---|---|
| Country / Region | United States · North America |
| Bases | 7 bases · EWR, ORD, DEN, IAH, LAX +2 more |
| Fleet types | A319/320/321, B737-700/800/900/MAX, B757-200/300, B767-300 +2 more |
| Contract type | Permanent, seniority-based |
| Type ratings accepted | B737, A319, A320, B757/767, B777, B787 |
| Assessment stages | 3 stages · 5-step pipeline |
How to Apply: United Airlines Pilot Application Process
The United Airlines pilot selection pipeline runs 5 steps from initial application through to first day of training. Here is exactly what to expect at each stage.
- 1
Online Application
1-2 weeksApply through United pilot careers portal with certificates, logbook summary, and resume.
- 2
Records Screening
2-8 weeksAutomated and manual review of qualifications, flight hours, and background.
- 3
Assessment Day
1 dayFull-day assessment at Denver training center: cognitive testing, simulator, and panel interview.
- 4
Conditional Job Offer
2-6 weeksCJO contingent on background check, drug screen, and medical.
- 5
New Hire Training
10-14 weeksType rating and IOE at Denver training center.
Assessment Stages: What United Airlines Tests
1. Hogan Personality Assessment
Personality and cognitive ability tests measuring multi-tasking, processing speed, and decision-making.
Preparation Tips
- Be consistent in personality answers
- Practice speed-accuracy drills
- Do not overthink personality questions
2. Simulator Evaluation
B737 or A320 sim testing instrument flying, hand-flying, and emergency procedures.
Preparation Tips
- Practice hand-flying ILS to minimums
- Expect engine failure on takeoff
- Communicate clearly with sim partner
3. Panel Interview
Behavioral panel with 2 captains covering TMAAT questions, technical scenarios, and situational judgment.
Preparation Tips
- Prepare 8-10 STAR-format stories
- Research United strategy and fleet plans
- Show knowledge of United route network
United Airlines Pilot Interview Questions
Recent United Airlines pilot candidates report these questions appearing in their panel and HR interviews. Use STAR-format (Situation, Task, Action, Result) responses and have 8-10 aviation anecdotes ready.
- Q1
Tell me about adapting to a sudden change.
- Q2
Describe cockpit leadership.
- Q3
Why United Airlines?
- Q4
How do you manage fatigue?
- Q5
Tell me about an error you made.
- Q6
What if ATC gave an uncomfortable clearance?
Minimum Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Certificates | FAA ATP certificate |
| Total Flight Time | 1,500 hours minimum |
| Medical | FAA Class 1 medical certificate |
| Education | 4-year degree preferred |
| Authorization | Unrestricted US work authorization |
| PIC Time | 1,000+ hours preferred |
Fleet You Could Fly at United Airlines
6 aircraft types currently operated
Type ratings accepted at application
Holding one of these ratings can accelerate the hiring pipeline.
United Airlines Pilot Bases (7)
Available pilot bases — bid by seniority
Cadet Program (No Experience Required)
United Aviate Academy
United-owned flight academy offering ab-initio training with a guaranteed interview and conditional job offer upon completion. One of the only airline-owned academies in the US.
Read full cadet program guide →
Insider Tips for United Airlines Applicants
United Aviate pathway graduates get priority interviews
Largest pilot hiring wave in company history planned for 2026
Denver is the largest base with most new-hire positions
Strong focus on safety culture in interviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Is United Airlines hiring pilots in 2026?
What are the minimum requirements to fly for United Airlines?
What is the United Airlines pilot interview process like?
What aircraft types does United Airlines operate?
Where are United Airlines pilot bases located?
What type ratings does United Airlines accept?
Does United Airlines have a cadet pilot program?
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United Airlines Cadet Program
$71,250 (financing available)
No-experience route into United Airlines: training, requirements, and selection.
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