Emirates Command Upgrade Time in 2025 – How Long It Really Takes

Joining Emirates is a dream for many pilots — and for those aiming to become captains, the command upgrade timeline is often the key question.

Let’s break down what you need to know, what Emirates promises, and what real pilots are actually experiencing.

Accelerated Command Programme – What It Says on Paper

Emirates offers an Accelerated Command Programme (ACP) for qualified pilots joining from Airbus and Boeing fleets. According to the official information, the requirements are:

✅ Minimum 5,000 hours total time on fixed-wing, multi-crew commercial jets (excluding rotary, P3, piston aircraft)
✅ Minimum 2,000 hours as commander on jets with MTOW >50 tonnes
✅ 1,000 hours PIC on Airbus FBW or Boeing aircraft
✅ Currently flying as captain on type
✅ Minimum 150 hours on type in the past 12 months

Once you join and fly 700 hours with Emirates, and pass two successful recurrent checks, you’re officially eligible for upgrade consideration.

Sounds Easy? Here’s the Reality.

While that may sound like a fast track — some even say “just over a year” — the reality is much more complicated.

💬 After the 700 hours and checks, you enter a waiting pool along with many other first officers.
🕒 From there, the actual upgrade wait time can vary wildly — some pilots report getting the upgrade after 2 years, others after 4, and a few… never.
🎯 You are not guaranteed an upgrade just because you meet the minimums. It’s a mix of performance, demand, and luck.

Standard First Officer Route

If you're not joining through ACP, the typical Emirates command upgrade time is around 4 years.

However, on aviation forums and among current crew, you’ll hear everything from:

“I got the upgrade after 2.5 years”
to
“Forget asking about upgrades. I’ve been waiting 7 years.”

The bottom line is: there’s no fixed path.

Your performance, attitude, CRM, and even who checks you on SIM can significantly affect the outcome.

The Emirates Culture – A Straight Line or You Wait

One thing is clear: Emirates expects consistency, discipline, and alignment with company values.

If you stray from that line — whether through SIM comments, minor CRM flags, or attitude issues — you may be delayed or skipped entirely.

Even top-performing pilots can be stuck depending on who assesses them. It’s not always a meritocracy — sometimes it’s just timing.

Why Is Emirates Hiring So Many Experienced FOs?

Right now, Emirates is actively hiring experienced First Officers and accelerated command candidates because of growing operational needs. But this doesn’t mean promotions will flow faster.

You’re being brought in to fly, not just to get upgraded.

Final Thoughts – Should You Join for the Upgrade?

If you’re thinking:

“I’ll join Emirates just to get a fast command” — reconsider.

Join because you want to live in Dubai, fly with a prestigious airline, and enjoy the lifestyle. The upgrade may come — or it may take much longer than expected.

With proper preparation, consistent performance, and some luck, the upgrade is absolutely possible. But don’t treat it like a promise — treat it like a possibility.

Want to Maximize Your Chances?

Join our 1-on-1 coaching sessions to:

✅ Understand each recruitment stage
✅ Nail your HR interview with confidence
✅ Perform at your best in the SIM
✅ Get a personalized plan for success

Don’t leave your upgrade to chance — prepare like a pro.