US flight school LIFT Academy (Leadership in Flight Training) is expanding its training fleet with six DA42s and 50 DA40s, underscoring a steadfast partnership that began in 2018.

This collaboration supports LIFT Academy's cutting-edge programme, which is meticulously designed to prepare aviators for successful careers, specifically at Republic Airways, its founding company and one of the largest regional airlines in the United States.

LIFT Academy offers a defined pathway to a career at Republic Airways, highlighting an industry model where training is directly aligned with future employment opportunities. The newest additions to the fleet will help bolster the training programmes at LIFT's new campuses in Galveston, Texas and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, as well as the newest campus at Tuskegee University in Alabama.

"We are enthusiastic about expanding our fleet with additional DA40 NG and DA42-VI aircraft. They are chosen for their advanced technology and fuel efficiency, which not only aligns with our sustainability efforts but they also closely mirror the aircraft our pilots will operate at Republic. This strategic expansion ensures that LIFT Academy continues to offer industry-leading training, preparing our students with a seamless transition to their careers as airline pilots," says director, flight operations and academic programmes Ed Bagden.

"We are honoured to further strengthen our longstanding relationship with LIFT Academy and are looking forward to continuing our collaborative efforts for many years to come," adds Trevor Mustard, head of aircraft sales and marketing, Diamond Aircraft Canada.

Republic's partnership with major airlines such as American, Delta and United further amplifies the opportunities for LIFT graduates.