On November 20, the Spanish Airline Pilots Association (SEPLA), the Official College of Commercial Aviation Pilots (COPAC), and Global Training Aviation (GTA) came together to celebrate the third edition of the Carlos Salas Scholarships. These prestigious awards are designed to support young pilots by recognizing their talent and helping them overcome the financial hurdles of pursuing a career in aviation.
In this year’s ceremony, hosted at SEPLA’s headquarters, four Gold Scholarships and six Silver Scholarships were awarded to the top candidates. The program aims to promote excellence in pilot training and facilitate access to the profession for aspiring aviators.
Comprehensive Support for Type Rating Training
The Gold Scholarships cover the full theoretical and practical training required for a type rating course on models such as the Airbus A320, Boeing 737, or ATR 500/600. The Silver Scholarships, meanwhile, finance 50% of the same program, ensuring significant support for those selected. Each candidate had the opportunity to showcase their skills through academic evaluations, personal interviews, and practical tests conducted on a Level D full-flight simulator.
This year, 52 candidates participated in the selection process, with 10 finalists excelling across all phases of evaluation. Their remarkable scores earned them recognition not only for their talent but also for their dedication and readiness to contribute to the aviation industry.
A Collective Commitment to Future Pilots
During the ceremony, representatives from SEPLA, COPAC, and GTA emphasized the importance of supporting young pilots as they embark on the challenging path to earning their ATPL and type ratings. Francisco Mora, Director General of Loreto Inversiones, highlighted the program’s mission to reduce the financial barriers faced by aspiring pilots.
José Luis Parra, founder of GTA, reiterated the importance of ensuring access to high-quality training for the next generation of pilots, while COPAC’s Dean, Carlos San José, praised the scholarship’s role in honoring the legacy of Carlos Salas, a figure synonymous with professionalism and dedication in aviation.
SEPLA President Óscar Sanguino encouraged the winners to remain committed to hard work, discipline, and enthusiasm as they pursue their careers. He also urged them to give back to the aviation community in the future, carrying forward the spirit of support they have received.
A Milestone for Young Aviators
For the winners, the scholarships represent much more than financial aid—they are a validation of their potential and a stepping stone to achieving their dreams of becoming professional pilots. By covering essential training elements, including simulator sessions on advanced aircraft like the A320, B737, or ATR models, these scholarships equip young aviators with the skills and experience necessary to excel in a competitive industry.
As the aviation sector continues to recover and grow, initiatives like the Carlos Salas Scholarships play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of pilots. By investing in their education and recognizing their dedication, SEPLA, COPAC, and GTA are helping to secure a bright future for aviation.
