Following the great success of the previous three editions of the Carlos Salas Scholarships for Pilots, the Official College of Commercial Aviation Pilots (COPAC), the Spanish Airline Pilots Union (Sepla), and Global Training Aviation (GTA) are launching the III EDITION of the Carlos Salas Scholarships for young pilots.
This initiative aims to support future pilots in entering the profession by helping them overcome the financial barrier of the high training costs. At the same time, it honors the legacy of Carlos Salas (1961-2021) and his dedication to the pilot profession.
We continue to grow, and this year we have expanded the number of scholarships. From two scholarships in the first edition, we now offer ten: 4 Gold Scholarships and 6 Silver Scholarships, which will fully or partially fund the type rating course for the aircraft chosen by the winners (Airbus A320, Boeing 737, ATR 72-500, or ATR 72-600).
The ultimate goal of these commercial pilot scholarships in Spain is to facilitate access to type rating courses, involving both the government and private companies.
This initiative aims to promote excellence by offering scholarships and eliminating financial barriers that currently prevent many extraordinary young individuals from entering the fascinating world of aviation and becoming airline pilots.
The entire selection process, including the personal interview and flight tests in the simulator (FFS*), takes place at the Madrid headquarters of GTA España.
GTA Madrid is conveniently located near the airport, with a range of hotels and residential apartments nearby, offering easy access and comfort for all our visitors.
GTA Bogotá is conveniently located near the airport, with a range of hotels and residential apartments nearby, offering easy access and comfort for all our visitors.
GTA Jakarta is conveniently located near the airport, with a range of hotels and residential apartments nearby, offering easy access and comfort for all our visitors.
Below you will find specific questions about Carlos Salas scholarship program.
The scholarships are aimed at young pilots; therefore, the maximum age is 35 years.
The winner of a grant will have one year from the date of the jury’s decision to make use of it.
No, only winners who make a new type rating within one year of the jury’s decision will be able to take advantage of the scholarships.
The scholarships are named after Carlos Salas, dean of the COPAC who passed away in 2021, always committed to working for the improvement of the pilot profession and excellence in our training.
“After finishing my ATR500 type rating course, I would like to thank GTA, SEPLA and COPAC for granting me this valuable Carlos Salas Scholarship. This opportunity represents not only a big step in my professional development as a pilot, but also a decisive boost to reach my goals in the world of aviation. I certainly consider it the best initiative in which a pilot fresh out of flight school can participate. I greatly appreciate your confidence in my application and your commitment to the training of future pilots – thank you for making this dream possible!”
Carlos Barja Gallés
Golden Scholarship
“As a proud winner of the Carlos Salas Scholarship program, I have had an amazing experience at GTA during both the selection process and the A320 Type Rating that followed. Special mention to the instructors, which were extraordinary from both the human and educational aspects. I am very grateful to all the people that are part of GTA and highly recommend aspiring pilots to participate in the Carlos Salas Scholarship program.“
Daniel Martín Cantero
Golden Scholarship
“I am beyond grateful for the Carlos Salas Scholarship I have received from SEPLA, COPAC, and GTA. This incredible opportunity has allowed me to enter the world of commercial aviation through the renowned Global Training Aviation, a school known for its exceptional staff and instructors. While many A320 type rating schools exist, few can match the human quality and professionalism demonstrated by GTA. They go above and beyond to ensure not only success in the course but also the development of pilots who truly evaluate and understand every situation that arises in the cabin. I am proud to be part of such an outstanding training program.“
Carmen de Castro Olveira
Silver Scholarship