flydubai and Emirates Aviation University Sign MoU to Launch Flight Dispatcher Cadet Programme

flydubai and Emirates Aviation University Partner to Launch Flight Dispatcher Cadet Programme

flydubai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Emirates Aviation University to collaborate on launching a Flight Dispatcher Cadet Programme. The initiative forms part of flydubai’s long-term approach to developing in-house aviation capabilities and supporting the growth of its national workforce.

The MoU was signed by Nasser Binkherbash, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at flydubai, and Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University. The signing ceremony was attended by Hamad Obaidalla, Chief Commercial Officer at flydubai, and Mick Hills, Chief Operations Officer at flydubai. The agreement sets the foundation for launching the programme in July 2026 and will be open to Emirati nationals.

As part of the programme, selected candidates will complete the Flight Dispatcher Initial Course (FDIC) at Emirates Aviation University in Dubai. The FDIC is a 10-week programme approved by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority under CAR Part II, designed to prepare cadets for a flight dispatcher licence.

The course curriculum covers key areas such as aviation law, meteorology, navigation, aircraft performance, weight and balance, human factors, and flight planning. It also focuses on coordination between flight dispatchers and pilots to support safe and efficient airline operations.

The cadet programme is designed to provide a structured career pathway for Emirati nationals with no prior aviation experience. By expanding access to specialised operational roles, the initiative supports workforce planning and strengthens flydubai’s future talent pipeline within flight operations.

Commenting on the partnership, Nasser Binkherbash said the programme supports flydubai’s training and succession-planning efforts while contributing to national employment and skills-development objectives.

Professor Ahmad Al Ali stated that Emirates Aviation University will draw on its experience in aviation education to deliver a focused training programme aligned with industry requirements and to develop Emirati talent.

Upon successful completion of the course and the required written, oral, and practical examinations, graduates will receive a Certificate of Course Completion, enabling them to pursue a flight dispatcher licence and progress towards a career in the aviation sector.

The collaboration further complements flydubai’s existing human capital initiatives, including its Ab Initio Pilot Training (MPL) programme, Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering Apprenticeship, and internship and work placement opportunities, contributing to the airline’s broader workforce development strategy in the UAE.