Malawi Airlines Limited is a registered partnership company with shareholding between Malawi Government and Ethiopian Airlines Enterprise. Malawi Airlines is the national flag carrier that operates B737-700, B737- 800 and Q400 Aircrafts having direct flights to regional cities of Johannesburg; Lusaka; Harare, Nairobi, Entebbe and Dar es Salaam; besides daily domestic flights between Lilongwe and Blantyre. The Airline offers warm and friendly service to make customers feel at home. It plays vital role in promoting tourism and trade by providing value for money services to all the destinations it operates. Malawi Airlines has excellent on-time performance and baggage handling services.
To keep our promise and in line with our growth strategy, the airline intends to recruit.
COMMERCIAL AIRLINE- FIRST OFFICER
Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill in the position of Commercial Airline – First Officer based in Lilongwe. The role holder will be reporting to the Chief Pilot.
Job Summary
- Employer: Malawi Airlines Limited
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Aviation
- Closing Date: 2026-10-16
Key Responsibilities
- Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill in the position of Commercial Airline – First Officer based in Lilongwe. The role holder will be reporting to the Chief Pilot.
Requirements
- Must have MSCE with credits in Maths, English and Physics or equivalent qualification.
- Must have a minimum of Commercial Pilot licence (CPL).
- Must have a valid multi engine and an instrument rating qualification.
- Pilots with Turbo Pro or Turbo Jet experience will have an added advantage.
- Class One ICAO Medical Certificate.
- Must be 25 years old and above.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: http://hr@malawian-airlines.%20com
About the Company
Malawi Airlines Limited is the national flag carrier of Malawi, operating scheduled passenger and cargo services from its hub at Lilongwe's Kamuzu International Airport. Established as a registered partnership between the Malawi Government and Ethiopian Airlines Enterprise, the airline connects domestic destinations including Blantyre and Mzuzu with international routes across Southern and Eastern Africa. The company maintains its headquarters in Lilongwe and employs aviation professionals throughout Malawi's major cities. As Malawi's designated national airline, it plays a vital role in facilitating business travel, tourism, and trade for one of Africa's most scenic nations.
Your Wings of Africa
Website: https://www.malawian-airlines.com/aa/corporate/about-us/career
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications do I need to become a First Officer with Malawi Airlines?
You need a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with Instrument Rating and Multi-Engine Rating issued by the Department of Civil Aviation in Malawi or a recognized ICAO authority. Most airlines also require a minimum of 200-250 flight hours, though this varies by employer. A Class 1 Medical Certificate and English language proficiency level 4 or higher are mandatory.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a First Officer at Malawi Airlines?
You will assist the Captain in pre-flight planning, cockpit preparation, and conducting safety checks before departure. During flight, you monitor instruments, communicate with air traffic control, and support takeoffs, landings, and navigation. You also complete post-flight documentation and participate in crew briefings and debriefings.
How does the work culture and scheduling work for pilots in Malawi?
Malawian aviation follows international standards with a strong emphasis on safety protocols and crew resource management. Schedules typically involve early starts and rotational shifts depending on route demands, with rest periods mandated by civil aviation regulations. Hierarchical respect for senior crew is expected, and teamwork within the cockpit is essential.
What career progression opportunities exist for First Officers in Malawi?
With accumulated flight hours and successful performance reviews, you can advance to Captain after meeting airline-specific requirements and passing command training. Some pilots transition to training roles, check airman positions, or management roles within flight operations. International opportunities may open up as you gain type ratings and experience on larger aircraft.
What benefits are typically offered to pilots by airlines in Malawi?
Benefits usually include medical aid coverage, pension contributions, and annual leave in line with Malawi labour laws and aviation regulations. Many airlines provide travel perks or standby tickets for employees and their families. Housing allowances or subsidized accommodation may be offered depending on the employer and your base location.
How do I apply for a First Officer position and what do Malawi Airlines look for in candidates?
Monitor the Malawi Airlines website, Department of Civil Aviation job boards, and aviation recruitment platforms for vacancies. Applications typically require a detailed CV, copies of licenses and medical certificates, and a cover letter highlighting your flight experience and safety record. Employers prioritize candidates with strong technical skills, disciplined professionalism, and demonstrated commitment to aviation safety standards.