Ryanair Pilot Interview Details

I recently went through the Ryanair pilot interview process, and it turned out to be one of the more structured and demanding airline selections I have experienced. If you are thinking about applying, here is how it went from my perspective.

It all began with the online application on the Ryanair careers website. I uploaded my CV, licences, medical certificate, and all required documents. Before applying, it was clear that Ryanair has strict minimum requirements and they do check them carefully. 

One thing that became very clear early on is that Ryanair is extremely strict with their entry requirements. You must fall into one of three categories: Cadet, Experienced First Officer, or Captain.

To apply as a cadet, I needed:

• Valid EASA CPL with frozen ATPL with all 14 exams passed. UK CAA licences are accepted for UK based AOC.
• Valid EU Part-MED Class 1 medical certificate.
• ICAO English Level 4 minimum with written proficiency.
• Advanced UPRT certificate.
• MCC certificate.
• Flight experience of 100 hours PIC for modular or 70 hours PIC for integrated training. 

For experienced First Officer applicants, the requirements are:

• Minimum 1200 hours total time.
• Minimum 1000 hours on a multi crew, multi engine jet over 30000 kg MTOW.
• Must have operated on this type within the last 36 months. 

For captain applicants:

• Minimum 3500 hours total time.
• Minimum 800 hours PIC on a multi crew, multi engine jet over 30000 kg MTOW. 

Step 1: Online Application

I created a profile and uploaded all required documents.

Step 2: Screening

The recruitment team reviewed my application against the requirements.

Step 3: Online Assessment

After passing screening, I completed the Cut-e psychometric tests. There is a fee of about 55
euros. You have limited time to pay and complete the tests in one sitting. There is a lot of
prep material online, just subscribe to one and practice a lot!

Step 4: Assessment Day

I was invited to a simulator assessment day in Dublin.

The day schedule:

08:00 Arrival and document checks
08:30 Company briefing
09:00 Simulator partner briefing
09:30 to 12:00 Simulator sessions
12:00 to 13:00 Lunch
13:00 to 15:00 Interviews

Simulator Assessment

The simulator was a Boeing 737 800 full flight simulator. I was not expected to know the
aircraft. The focus was on CRM, communication, and basic handling.

They looked for:

• Strong communication and teamwork
• Clear and structured briefings
• Correct callouts
• Stable flying within reasonable limits
• Ability to take feedback and improve

Interviews

• Technical Interview

The technical interview focused on practical ATPL knowledge such as meteorology,
principles of flight, and operational procedures. Questions were scenario based.

• HR Interview

The HR interview focused on competencies using the STAR method. I was asked about
mistakes, teamwork, leadership, and decision making.

Result

I received the result within about a week.

Type Rating

After passing, candidates are assigned to a Boeing 737 type rating course.

The process is structured and fair. It is not about being perfect but about demonstrating good communication, sound judgment, and the ability to learn. If you prepare properly and understand what they are looking for, the process is manageable.