ALAS, the Copa Airlines Pilot Academy, has formalized the opening of the 2026 Scholarship Contest. The announcement was made during an information session designed to guide applicants about the institution's comprehensive training model. The contest stipulates the awarding of two full scholarships, covering the total investment of $52,000, and two partial scholarships of $26,000. For practical training, the center has a fleet of 10 Diamond aircraft (8 single-engine DA40NG and 2 twin-engine DA42NG), equipped with state-of-the-art technology to strengthen the technical learning of future aviation professionals. Pedro Herrera, director of ALAS, emphasized that the goal is to prepare students under the highest standards of security and professionalism required by commercial aviation. Requirements and selection process The call is aimed at Panamanian citizens between the ages of 19 and 25. Applications will be received from March 1 to April 15, 2026, through the academy's official email. The selection process will be rigorous and will include a document review, socioeconomic evaluation, ALAS-specific psychotechnical tests, and a specialized medical evaluation for pre-selected candidates. Growth and technological fleet Currently, the academy has 187 active students, with female participation standing at 33%. This initiative seeks to facilitate access to the commercial pilot career for young Panamanians who demonstrate high potential and commitment to the aerospace industry. Copa Airlines boosts the commercial pilot career with full and partial scholarships. The program offers full and partial scholarships to cover commercial pilot training, with an application period from March 1 to April 15. Since its founding, ALAS has graduated nearly 300 commercial Panamanian pilots. Both benefits include operational costs for uniforms, iPad devices, study tools, medical certificates, and licenses. Candidates must have a minimum academic index of 4.5 in high school or 2.5 at the university level, in addition to a command of the English language at ICAO level 4 or higher.
