IDAC certifies two Dominican pilots for Arajet Boeing aircraft

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Civil Aviation Institute (IDAC) has certified two Dominican pilots, Víctor Cruz and Yoryi Bonilla, as captains of the Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft for Arajet, the Dominican Republic’s flagship airline. This milestone marks the first time the airline has promoted pilots from first officers to captains. Both aviators met stringent requirements, including over 5,000 total flight hours, with more than 1,000 hours logged as first officers on Arajet’s Boeing aircraft.

IDAC Director General Igor Rodríguez Durán visited Arajet’s facilities at José Francisco Peña Gómez Las Américas International Airport to commend the pilots and the airline for fostering local talent and advancing the country’s commercial aviation sector. Rodríguez emphasized IDAC’s commitment to collaborating with air operators to strengthen the aviation industry and create opportunities for Dominican professionals to excel regionally.

Arajet’s Chief Operating Officer, Garret Malone, highlighted the airline’s dedication to developing local talent, noting the significant demand for more pilots and technicians in the coming years. Additionally, Arajet’s cadet program, in collaboration with Boeing, will continue to provide aspiring Dominican pilots with training opportunities, enabling them to pursue their dreams of flying for the airline.