The Faculty of Engineering at the University of Balamand is proud to announce that three of its outstanding Mechanical Engineering students (Aeronautical Engineering Track), Jamal Harmouch, Ralph Achkar, and Oliver El Fata, have successfully been accepted into the highly competitive Middle East Airlines (MEA) Cadet Pilot Program. This achievement reflects both the students’ dedication and the strong academic foundation provided by the Faculty.
The rigorous selection process tested candidates through comprehensive examinations in mathematics, physics, English, cognitive abilities, presentation skills, spatial relations, mechanical reasoning, and personality, followed by several interview rounds, specialized assessments with Flight Training Europe (FTE), medical evaluations, and a final interview with the Chairman of MEA.
The three students have already headed to Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, where they will begin an intensive 18-month flight and theoretical training program before returning to Lebanon as certified MEA pilots. The team from UOB joined a group of 13 other Lebanese trainees currently undergoing the same program from other Lebanese universities.
The team of students joined the MEA Cadet Pilot Training Program designed to train them to obtain the European EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and Instrument Rating (IR), Multi Engine (ME), Multi Crew Cooperation Course (MCC) and Jet Orientation Course (JOC). All testing will be conducted under the European Civil Aviation Authority regulations.
For
Jamal Harmouch, this milestone was the realization of a lifelong dream:
“My journey at Balamand University greatly supported me throughout the cadet pilot selection process. While pursuing my Master’s degree, I was able to deepen my knowledge through courses such as Control and Aerodynamics, Structures, Engines, and Instruments and Systems. These courses not only helped me perform well during the technical parts of the exams but also continue to strengthen my understanding in my current studies. In addition, I had the privilege of working with Dr. Karim Nasr on projects in fluid dynamics and alternative renewable energy, and with Dr. Chawki Lahoud on solar tracking, energy sources, and phase change materials, leading to the publication of one paper, with two more on the way. Balancing my demanding research and coursework with preparation for the selection process was not easy, but it taught me discipline, time management, and perseverance, which are essential skills for a future pilot”.
Ralph Achkar also credited his success to the University’s role in shaping his path:
“I always knew I wanted to be a pilot, and the Faculty of Engineering gave me the knowledge and support to make it possible. The professors’ guidance, especially during my application to Middle East Airlines, and my studies in Mechanical Engineering strengthened my passion for aviation. A special thanks to all of my professors who pushed us through tough projects and encouraged us to always aim higher. Balamand was more than a place to earn my degree, it became a new home, pushing me to grow and become the best version of myself”.
For
Oliver El Fata, aviation has always been more than a career:
“Aviation has never been just a career option for me, it has always been where I truly belong. The Faculty of Engineering played a defining role in shaping my path toward becoming a pilot. It offered me the opportunity to stay fully immersed in the world of aviation and, more importantly, equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to build a strong foundation. I am profoundly grateful to the professors and instructors whose guidance and encouragement pushed me to aim higher. That foundation was instrumental in my application to Middle East Airlines and continues to guide every step of my journey as a pilot”.
Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Vice President for Internationalization and Engagement, Professor Rami Abboud, expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the three alumni stating: “the success of these graduates is a testament to the University of Balamand’s commitment to excellence in mechanical and aeronautical engineering and its mission to prepare future leaders in aviation. Their acceptance into the MEA Cadet Pilot Program stands as a proud achievement for both the three graduates, their professors, the Faculty and the University alike. We pride ourselves to provide them a second welcoming home to nurture their talents and harness their potentials to be agent of change for an innovative and sustainable future”.
