Low-cost airline easyJet has announced that it has opened applications for its latest cohort of engineering apprentices for 2026. The recruitment programme is an attempt to deal with the dwindling number of skilled engineers in the aviation industry.
A study by AeroProfessional called “Engineer Skills Shortage: The Risk to Aviation’s Future” paints a clear yet not positive image. According to the data, 27% of the aircraft engineering workforce is set to retire in the next decade, while almost half are considering moving to an alternative industry. At the same time, air travel is more popular than ever, and the demand for skilled personnel is therefore high.
However, there seems to be little appeal amongst young people to fill in those gaps. A survey of 2,000 young people aged 16-24 commissioned by easyJet revealed that two-thirds of them had never considered an engineering career. While more than half thought to lacked the required qualifications, others indicated that the option of becoming an engineer was never brought forward at school.
easyJet’s response to a lack of personnel
In order to try and rectify the lack of appeal, easyJet has opened applications for its latest cohort of engineering apprentices for 2026. According to the airline, an apprenticeship provides an accessible alternative route to gain the skills, experience, and confidence needed to establish a long and successful career in the profession.
“Today’s young people are motivated by purpose – they want to solve problems, travel, innovate, and play their part in building a more sustainable future. Our engineering apprenticeships give candidates the chance to gain valuable experience working on our state-of-the-art fleet of aircraft while helping to deliver on aviation’s commitment to decarbonisation. We’re looking forward to opening the doors to applicants from all backgrounds who are ready to take their first step into a rewarding career in aviation”, said Brendan McConnellogue, Director of Engineering and Maintenance at easyJet.
The apprenticeship programme allows anyone with an interest in engineering to try their hand, regardless of their background or previous degrees. However, applicants must be at least 17 years and three months old when starting, as they need to be 18 by the time they get to phase 2, which requires them to work nightshifts.
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“This engineering apprenticeship scheme marks an important step in continuing to build a highly skilled aviation workforce fit for the future. Initiatives like easyJet’s unlock exciting, flexible routes into aviation, backing an expanding sector whilst offering young people valuable opportunities and long-term careers – helping deliver our Plan for Change”, stated Aviation Minister Keir Mather.
Applications to easyJet’s engineering apprenticeship scheme are now open, with 20 places available to start in April 2026 and another 20th for October 2026.
