Ryanair will no longer charge trainee pilots almost €30,000 upfront for training under a policy change announced today.
Up to now, trainees known as cadets were charged a course fee of €29,500 and were not paid until they had completed a significant portion of their training.
However, in the careers section of its website, Ryanair has announced what it calls a new "sponsored" type-rating programme, under which pilots will only have to pay a one-off upfront payment of €5,000 for their training.
However, pilots will also be subject to a "5 year reducing bond" binding them to the airline for that period.
They will also be paid a salary from the first day of their line training. On its website, the airline described the new programme as a revolutionary, industry-leading cadet programme which was a first among low cost airlines.
Ryanair also extolled the prospects of job security, a fast progression to command roles, unrivalled career progression and great base opportunities.
Asked about this policy change, Ryanair said: "As you know we don't comment on our discussions with our people and that includes our cadet programmes".
Last year, Ryanair was forced to cancel over 20,000 flights due to mismanagement of annual leave for pilots amid staff shortages - and has been battling to recruit and retain pilots.
Earlier today, Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O'Leary warned of possible disruption to Easter and summer travel, blaming ongoing talks with pilot unions.
He said: "Where you have unions, one should expect occasional disruptions. But we continue to make significant progress in our union negotiations in general."
Speaking in Brussels, Mr. O'Leary said Ryanair expects to finalise union recognition agreements in Spain and Italy within the next month.
The airline has already concluded a recognition deal with British pilots' union BALPA but is still negotiating with the Irish pilots' union Forsa.
