How much industry experience do I need to have to apply?
The ISTAT Executive Leadership Program is designed for high-potential commercial aviation professionals with approximately 15-20 years of industry experience who are ready to strengthen their leadership capabilities and expand their impact within their organizations and the industry.
What are the key components of the program?
The Executive Leadership Program combines multiple forms of development to create a highly personalized and collaborative experience:
- Assessment: Participants begin with an assessment designed to build greater self-awareness and inform individual development priorities.
- Individualized Coaching: Participants work one-on-one with an executive coach to explore assessment insights, establish development goals and translate learning into action.
- Group Coaching: Participants learn alongside peers through facilitated sessions focused on shared challenges, practical application and continued development.
- Cohort Seminars: Three in-person seminars bring the cohort together for immersive workshops, leadership development, practical application and meaningful connection.
- Mentorship, Engagement & Connection: Participants build relationships with established commercial aviation leaders who can share perspective and support their continued development.
- Self-Guided Learning: Curated resources and activities reinforce leadership concepts and encourage reflection and application between sessions.
- Capstone Project: Participants bring together insights and skills developed throughout the program through a culminating capstone experience.
How many applicants will be accepted?
The ISTAT Selection Committee will select approximately 30 participants for the 2027 cohort based on the strength of their applications while seeking a cohort representing diverse professional backgrounds, companies, nationalities and other perspectives.
How much does the program cost?
The participant fee for the 2027 program is US$15,000. ISTAT invests in the program by subsidizing a portion of the overall cost.
Travel, accommodations and other expenses associated with in-person seminars are the responsibility of participants. Registration for ISTAT Americas and ISTAT EMEA is also not included in the program fee.
Are there separate costs that my registration does not cover?
Yes. The participant fee does not include registration for ISTAT Americas and ISTAT EMEA, travel, accommodations or other expenses associated with attending the program’s in-person seminars.
If I am accepted into the program, can I defer my participation to the next cohort?
No. Participants accepted into the 2027 cohort are expected to complete the program during the designated 2027 program period. Those unable to participate should apply for a future cohort.
How long is the program?
The 2027 Executive Leadership Program begins in January and continues through September. Participants will engage in individualized and group coaching, mentorship, self-guided learning and three in-person cohort seminars throughout the program.
The cohort will meet in person in Vancouver on 21 March, at a to be determined facility in July and in Prague on 26 September.
What is the expected time commitment?
Participants should be prepared to actively engage throughout the duration of the program. In addition to attending three in-person cohort seminars, participants will take part in individualized and group coaching sessions, mentorship opportunities, self-guided learning and a capstone project.
Additional reflection, preparation and application may be expected between scheduled sessions to help participants get the most from the experience.
Am I required to attend all three in-person seminars?
Yes. Participants are expected to attend all required seminars and sessions to successfully complete the program.
Will there be "homework"?
Yes. Leadership development continues between formal sessions. Participants should expect self-guided learning, reflection and other activities throughout the program, as well as a capstone project that brings together insights and skills developed during the experience.
How will mentors be selected?
ISTAT will hand select the highest caliber men and women in the aviation industry to serve as mentors in this program. The ISTAT Selection Committee will review each individual’s application, company representation, background and goals and identify a strong senior leader in the commercial aviation community who aligns well to the participants leadership development needs.
How do I become a mentor?
Professionals interested in serving as mentors for the ISTAT Executive Leadership Program can contact istat@istat.org to express their interest.
Program Overview