AELO Swiss Academy is proud to be the first independent Approved Training Organisation (ATO) to become a “Partnerflugschule der SWISS”, entrusted with delivering flight training for selected cadets of SWISS International Air Lines while remaining independent and outside the Lufthansa Group.
This partnership represents one of the most important milestones in AELO’s history and a significant recognition of the quality, professionalism and operational standards that underpin our training organisation.
As part of the ZHAW aviation programme, selected SWISS cadets complete key elements of their initial pilot training at AELO Swiss Academy in Locarno, Switzerland. The first cohort of six SWISS cadets commenced training at Locarno Airport (LSZL) in August 2026, marking the operational start of this important cooperation.
Selected SWISS cadets will complete their flight training with AELO Swiss Academy.
All training takes place at Locarno Airport in the heart of Switzerland.
Training is embedded in the SWISS & ZHAW pilot pathway with clear academic integration.
SWISS conducts oversight, audits, instructor standardisation and performance mentoring.
Selected SWISS cadets undertake their flight training at AELO Swiss Academy’s base at Locarno Airport (LSZL) in southern Switzerland.
The objective is not simply to teach cadets how to fly an aircraft.
From the beginning of their training, cadets are expected to develop the discipline, situational awareness, decision-making, communication, technical competence and professional mindset required for a future career in Swiss Airlines.
The procedures and regulations of flying in different airspace and environments.
The competencies and attitudes of working as a professional pilot, such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and decision-making.
The skills and techniques of flying various aircraft types and models, from single-engine to multi-engine, from piston to jet, from visual to instrument.
Obtained the EASA ATPL license issued by the Swiss Civil Aviation Authority, which is the highest level of pilot certification and the standard requirement for most airlines.
Accumulated at least 220 hours of flight time, including 100 hours of pilot-in-command time and 50 hours of instrument time.
Secured a job offer with one of our partner airlines, subject to meeting their requirements and standards.
Obtained the EASA ATPL license issued by the Swiss Civil Aviation Authority, which is the highest level of pilot certification and the standard requirement for most airlines.
Obtained the EASA ATPL license issued by the Swiss Civil Aviation Authority, which is the highest level of pilot certification and the standard requirement for most airlines.
SWISS ensures the highest standards through a comprehensive oversight programme.
Our close cooperation guarantees consistent quality and full transparency.
Training
supervision
Audits &
inspections
Performance
monitoring
Access to
trainee records
The cooperation forms part of the wider ZHAW aviation programme, bringing together academic education and professional pilot training.
This structure allows participating cadets to develop a broader understanding of aviation while simultaneously progressing through their practical training.
AELO works closely with the relevant stakeholders to coordinate flight training around the academic programme, creating a structured pathway in which university education and professional pilot development complement one another.
Reasons
Can I apply directly to AELO for the SWISS cadet pathway?
No. This programme is specifically for cadets selected for the SWISS pathway. Candidates interested in becoming a SWISS cadet should follow the applicable SWISS recruitment and selection process.
AELO separately offers its own professional pilot training programmes for self-sponsored students.
Is this the same as AELO’s Integrated ATPL programme?
No. The training delivered to SWISS cadets forms part of the dedicated pathway involving SWISS and the ZHAW aviation programme.
AELO’s Integrated ATPL is a separate professional pilot training programme available to students pursuing an airline career independently.
Where does the flight training take place?
The SWISS cadets undertake their AELO flight training at Locarno Airport (LSZL), Switzerland.
What does “Partnerflugschule der SWISS” signify?
The designation reflects AELO’s status as a recognised SWISS partner flight school entrusted with delivering elements of the airline’s cadet flight training.
It demonstrates that AELO is able to operate within the training, quality and oversight framework required for the development of future SWISS pilots.
Training the Next Generation of SWISS Pilots
Becoming an airline pilot requires much more than learning how to operate an aircraft.
It requires discipline, precision, sound judgement, professionalism, resilience and an uncompromising commitment to safety.
These principles sit at the heart of the training environment we have built at AELO Swiss Academy.
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Course Information & Admissions:
+41 79 544 07 77 | admissions@aeloswissacademy.com
Administration:
+41 79 544 07 77 | info@aeloswissacademy.com