Progression
Rank Structure
Progress through our ranks by completing flight hours and demonstrating professionalism. Each rank is represented by a unique epaulette.
Cadet — Trainee Rank
Every Atlas Virtual journey begins here. When your application is accepted, you receive the Cadet rank. Complete Stage 1 (theory exam) and Stage 2 (check-ride) training to earn your first operational rank and officially take to the skies as an Atlas Virtual pilot.
Passenger Ranks
Charter Operations
Junior First Officer
Entry level — charter passenger operations
Junior First Officer epaulette representing entry-level passenger charter flight operations within the VA network.
First Officer
Charter passenger pilot
Achieved upon completing 25 flight hours in passenger charter operations.
Senior First Officer
Senior charter pilot
Awarded at 50 flight hours for dedicated charter pilot performance.
Captain
Veteran charter pilot
Reached at 100 flight hours, marking veteran status in passenger operations.
Cargo Ranks
Freight Operations
Senior Captain
Entry level cargo operations
Transition to heavy freight operations at 200 flight hours.
Chief Captain
Senior freighter pilot
Senior freighter pilot status attained at 300 flight hours.
Commander
Master freighter pilot
Master freighter pilot status reached at 500 flight hours.
Elite Ranks
Top Performers Only
Apex Commander
Elite Tier I
Elite Tier I status achieved at 1,000 flight hours with leadership review.
Titan
Elite Tier II
Elite Tier II status achieved at 1,500 flight hours.
Sovereign
Elite Tier III — Highest Rank
The highest rank in Atlas Virtual, achieved at 2,000 flight hours and elite leadership endorsement.
Important Notice
Flight hour requirements are tracked by our operations team. Elite ranks may also carry additional criteria set by leadership. Full details are provided in the Pilot Handbook upon joining.