Air Dolomiti Overview & Company Profile
Air Dolomiti is the Italian regional airline of the Lufthansa Group, headquartered in Villafranca di Verona (province of Verona), Italy. Founded in 1989 and operational since January 21, 1991, the airline was created with the mission of providing efficient connections between smaller Italian cities and the rest of Europe. Lufthansa progressively acquired shares in the company and became the sole shareholder in 2003, fully integrating Air Dolomiti into the Lufthansa Group as its Italian branch.
Today, Air Dolomiti operates approximately 550 weekly flights connecting Italian and European airports primarily to Lufthansa's hubs in Munich and Frankfurt. The airline serves over 30 destinations across Italy, Germany, Austria, and the wider European network. During 2023, Air Dolomiti offered 4 million seats across 39,000 flights and carried approximately 3 million passengers. A significant portion of the airline's operations are also marketed under the Lufthansa (LH) airline code, making it an integral feeder carrier for the group's European network. The airline is also expanding its role within the Lufthansa Group by operating routes on behalf of Austrian Airlines from Italian airports to the Vienna hub, as well as from Belgrade and Kosice.
The workforce has grown significantly alongside the fleet expansion, reaching approximately 1,200 employees as of early 2025, including ground and flight staff. The airline's operational bases are in Verona, Venice, and Florence, with the head office in Verona. In January 2025, Air Dolomiti inaugurated a new training centre in Nogarole Rocca (Verona province), featuring a full Embraer fuselage mock-up for realistic on-board simulations, spacious training rooms, and dedicated offices for instructors.
Fleet Composition & Type Ratings
Air Dolomiti operates an all-Embraer fleet, making it one of the largest E-Jet operators in Europe. Over the years, the airline has invested consistently in fleet renewal, having been the launch customer in Italy for the Embraer 195 when it was introduced in February 2009. The current fleet is composed of two Embraer variants: the E195 (120 seats in single-class configuration) and the smaller E190 (108 seats). As of early 2026, the fleet consists of 17 Embraer 195 and 9 Embraer 190, for a total of 26 aircraft.
In December 2025, Air Dolomiti took delivery of the first of 13 Embraer E195s transferred from Austrian Airlines. This marks the beginning of an ambitious fleet expansion programme running through 2028. These E195s will progressively replace the nine E190s, increasing the overall fleet from 26 to approximately 30 aircraft while standardizing the fleet around the larger E195 variant. The first of these aircraft is expected to enter service in March 2026.
| Aircraft Type | Role | In Service | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Embraer E195 | Regional jet | 17 | Main fleet type. 120 seats. Launch customer in Italy (2009). 13 additional units arriving 2026-2028. |
| Embraer E190 | Regional jet | 9 | 108 seats. Being progressively replaced by incoming E195s. Some sourced from Lufthansa CityLine. |
Fleet data as of early 2026. Numbers are evolving due to the ongoing E195 delivery programme.
Air Dolomiti provides the Embraer type rating for pilots recruited through its official selection process. New First Officers typically join directly on the E190 or E195 fleet, with the company covering the full cost of the type rating course. Each aircraft requires approximately 6 Captains, 6-7 First Officers, and 21 flight attendants to operate, according to the airline's CEO. With the fleet growing from 26 to approximately 30 aircraft, Air Dolomiti has been on a significant hiring drive since 2024, recruiting several dozen new pilots per year. The Embraer E-Jet family is known for its modern Honeywell Primus Epic avionics, side-stick controls, and excellent handling characteristics, making it a popular platform among regional airline pilots.
Pilot Salary & Compensation
Air Dolomiti pilot salaries are governed by Italian employment law and the company's internal collective agreement. As a regional carrier within the Lufthansa Group, compensation sits below the Lufthansa mainline pay scale but is generally considered competitive within the Italian aviation market. Pilot reviews note that First Officer salaries are viewed favourably, while Captain pay has been described as below the European average for equivalent roles, which has contributed to retention challenges in the Captain ranks.
First Officer (F/O) Pay Scale
| Seniority | Monthly Gross (est.) | Annual Gross (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 (entry F/O) | €3,500 - €4,500 | ~€45,000 - €55,000 | Non-type-rated entry. Type rating provided. |
| Year 3-5 | €5,000 - €6,500 | ~€60,000 - €80,000 | With per diems and flight pay included. |
| Senior F/O (5+ yrs) | €6,500 - €8,000 | ~€80,000 - €95,000 | Top of F/O scale. Fast-track upgrade available. |
Estimates based on industry data, Glassdoor reports, and pilot community feedback. Actual figures depend on the latest company agreement.
Captain (CDB) Pay Scale
| Seniority | Monthly Gross (est.) | Annual Gross (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Captain | €8,000 - €10,000 | ~€100,000 - €120,000 | Upon upgrade from F/O or direct entry. |
| Captain, 5+ years | €10,000 - €12,000 | ~€120,000 - €145,000 | With full seniority increments. |
| Senior Captain | €12,000 - €14,000 | ~€145,000 - €170,000 | Including TRI/TRE premium if applicable. |
Captain salaries have been a point of contention. Pilot reviews highlight that Captain pay is below European averages, which has led to retention issues.
These figures are estimates compiled from Glassdoor data, pilot community reviews (PilotsGlobal), and industry benchmarks. Actual compensation depends on the company's internal pay agreement, individual seniority steps, and the specific flight hours logged each month. Italy offers a favourable tax environment for aviation professionals, with a flat-rate tax regime available for certain income categories. However, Italian social contributions are significant. Multiple pilot reviews from 2024-2025 mention that Captain salaries need improvement to reduce turnover, while F/O pay is considered good for the region. Always verify current figures directly with Air Dolomiti's recruitment department.
Roster Pattern & Quality of Life
Air Dolomiti operates under EASA Flight Time Limitation (FTL) rules combined with Italian labor regulations. The airline's roster system has been a frequent topic of discussion among pilots. As a short-haul regional operator, pilots typically fly multiple sectors per day within Italy and to/from German hubs. The typical working pattern involves blocks of 4-5 flying days followed by 2-3 days off, though schedules can be variable and sometimes unpredictable.
One consistent theme from pilot reviews is that roster planning could be improved. Reports from 2024-2025 indicate that rosters are still managed largely by hand, without sophisticated computerized optimization, which can lead to last-minute changes and difficulties in planning personal life. The shortage of Captains has also impacted rostering, with some Captains experiencing more intensive patterns (described as "4-2" style rosters) to cover operational demands. Transfers between the three Italian bases (Verona, Venice, Florence) to start or end shifts are common due to staffing imbalances, which adds commuting complexity.
📅 Sample Month: First Officer (Verona Base)
Air Dolomiti operates from three Italian bases: Verona (VRN), Venice (VCE), and Florence (FLR). Verona is the primary base and administrative headquarters. Most flights route through Munich or Frankfurt, meaning pilots typically depart from their Italian base, fly to Germany, operate 2-4 days of flying within the European network, and then return to base. This creates a pattern where pilots may spend several consecutive nights in Germany. Living costs in Verona, Venice, and Florence are moderate by Western European standards, and all three cities offer excellent quality of life with Italy's renowned culture, cuisine, and climate. The expansion of routes from Munich (15 destinations in winter 2025/26, including new connections to Ljubljana, Luxembourg, and Zurich) and Frankfurt (18 destinations) means the network keeps growing.
Benefits, Travel Perks & Retirement
As a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Lufthansa Group, Air Dolomiti pilots benefit from one of the strongest travel benefit packages in European aviation, combined with Italian statutory employee protections. The Lufthansa Group's Star Alliance membership gives pilots access to an extensive global network of discounted travel.
The single biggest non-salary benefit of flying for Air Dolomiti is access to the Lufthansa Group staff travel programme. This includes standby and reduced-rate tickets on all Lufthansa Group carriers (Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Eurowings, Discover Airlines) as well as interline agreements with all Star Alliance member airlines. Depending on availability and seniority, pilots can travel in Economy, Business, or even First Class at a fraction of the retail price. This benefit alone is a significant draw for pilots who value travel, and it extends to family members. Retirees also retain travel privileges, making it a genuine lifetime benefit.
Career Progression & Seniority
Career progression at Air Dolomiti is one of the airline's strongest selling points. Unlike many legacy carriers where Captain upgrade can take 10-15 years, Air Dolomiti offers a fast-track upgrade pathway that is actively marketed in its recruitment campaigns. As of 2025, the airline is investing heavily in future Captains, offering dedicated "Fast Track Upgrade to Captain" positions where experienced First Officers can join, complete their Embraer type rating, fly for approximately 6 months as F/O, and then begin the upgrade process to Captain. An attractive entry bonus is offered to selected candidates in this programme.
The fast upgrade timeline is largely driven by the airline's growth. The fleet expansion from 20 aircraft in 2023 to 30+ by 2028 creates a continuous need for new Captains. Pilot reviews confirm that upgrade to Captain is available relatively quickly, with one reviewer noting "instant upgrade to Captain as soon as possible" as a positive. However, the trade-off is that the intensive operational pace means Captains often face demanding rosters to cover the fleet's needs.
| Career Milestone | Typical Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Join as F/O (non-rated) | Day 1 | Low-hour pilots accepted. Company-funded type rating on E190/E195. |
| Type rating completion | ~3-4 months | Ground school + simulator + line training on the Embraer E-Jet. |
| Line F/O (fully operational) | ~6 months | Unrestricted line flying across the network. |
| Captain upgrade (fast track) | 1-3 years | Available to experienced F/Os. Assessment + command training. Entry bonus offered. |
| Captain upgrade (standard) | 3-5 years | For pilots who entered as low-hour F/Os. Depends on fleet growth. |
| TRI / TRE (Instructor / Examiner) | Variable | Separate selection. Additional training and salary premium. |
While Air Dolomiti does not formally advertise a guaranteed pathway to Lufthansa mainline, being part of the Lufthansa Group provides indirect advantages. Pilots gain experience in a structured, EASA-compliant environment operating as feeders for Lufthansa hubs. The company's selection process notes that "recognition of Lufthansa Group selection processes may be considered," suggesting some portability of assessments within the group. The Embraer type rating and multi-crew experience gained at Air Dolomiti are valued credentials when applying to other Lufthansa Group carriers or European airlines. Captain Valerio Zuppicchiatti, appointed VP Operations in January 2025, is himself a career Air Dolomiti pilot with over 12,500 flight hours, illustrating that long-term career development within the company is achievable at the highest levels.
Recruitment Process & Requirements
Air Dolomiti recruits pilots through two main streams: low-hour / non-rated First Officers (for pilots fresh out of flight school) and experienced pilots (including direct-entry Captains and fast-track upgrade candidates). The airline is one of the few European carriers that actively accepts applications from low-hour pilots without a type rating, providing full type rating training on the Embraer E-Jet at company expense. Italian language is mandatory for all pilot positions.
First Officer: Requirements
Captain: Requirements
Selection Stages
Online Application
Submit your application through the Air Dolomiti careers portal, including CV, license copy, and medical certificate. Online applications are reviewed and shortlisted candidates are contacted for the next phase.
DLR Aptitude & Skill Assessment
A full-day assessment performed according to the DLR (Deutsches Zentrum fur Luft- und Raumfahrt) standard, the same psychometric framework used across the Lufthansa Group. Tests include logic, spatial reasoning, multitasking, coordination, memory, ATPL knowledge questions, and English proficiency. Test location is typically Milan. Candidates must bring signed personal data disclosure documents provided by Air Dolomiti.
Interview & Competency Assessment
A structured interview assessing CRM skills, motivation, cultural fit, and team-working competencies. This is typically conducted by Air Dolomiti's Pilot Recruitment Department. For Captain candidates, a simulator assessment may be included.
Medical & Contract
Successful candidates receive a conditional offer pending Class 1 medical verification. Upon completion, pilots proceed to type rating training at the company's facilities. The Embraer type rating course includes ground school, full-flight simulator sessions, and supervised line training.
Italian language is absolutely mandatory for all positions. This is consistently emphasized in job postings and on the company's LinkedIn page. The DLR assessment is the same framework used by Lufthansa, Austrian, and SWISS, so preparation materials for any Lufthansa Group DLR test are directly applicable. The ATPL knowledge component covers technical subjects, so a good refresher before the test is recommended. Pilot forums suggest resources like Aviation Exam and the Ace Technical Pilot book for ATPL question preparation. Air Dolomiti's selection standards are described as thorough but fair, and "recognition of Lufthansa Group selection processes may be considered," meaning previous DLR results from other group airlines might carry over.
How Air Dolomiti Compares: Airline Radar Chart
How does Air Dolomiti measure up against two comparable Lufthansa Group regional/feeder airlines: Lufthansa CityLine (German regional, CRJ/Embraer/A319 fleet, Munich and Frankfurt based) and Austrian Airlines (Austrian flag carrier operating both short and long-haul, Vienna based)? All three are part of the same group but offer distinctly different career paths.
Key Takeaways from the Comparison
Air Dolomiti wins on job security and career speed. The airline's sustained growth (fleet expanding from 20 to 30+ aircraft) creates consistent demand for new Captains. Upgrade timelines of 1-5 years are significantly faster than at Lufthansa CityLine (which is actually being wound down in favour of Lufthansa City Airlines) or Austrian Airlines (where upgrade depends on fleet position and can take 5-10 years). For a pilot who wants to build command experience quickly, Air Dolomiti is one of the best options within the Lufthansa Group.
Salary is the main trade-off. Air Dolomiti's regional pay sits below both Lufthansa CityLine (which benefits from the stronger Lufthansa Group German pay scale) and Austrian Airlines (which pays Austrian collective agreement rates). Captain salaries at Air Dolomiti are described by pilots as below the European average, while Lufthansa CityLine Captains can earn in the range of €120,000-€160,000 annually and Austrian Airlines Captains reach €130,000-€200,000+ on widebody fleets.
Austrian Airlines offers fleet diversity. Austrian operates both Embraer E-Jets, Airbus A320 family, and Boeing 767/777 widebodies, giving pilots the possibility of transitioning to long-haul flying. Air Dolomiti and Lufthansa CityLine are purely short-haul regional operations. For pilots who dream of intercontinental flying, Austrian provides a pathway that Air Dolomiti cannot.
Benefits are comparable across the group. All three airlines share the Lufthansa Group staff travel programme, which is one of the most generous in European aviation. The main differences lie in the specific national labour protections (Italian, German, or Austrian) and pension systems.
Scores are editorial estimates based on publicly available salary data, pilot reviews (PilotsGlobal, Glassdoor, PPRuNe), airline press releases, and industry benchmarks. They represent a general assessment for a mid-career pilot evaluating career options within the Lufthansa Group. Individual experiences will vary based on seniority, contract terms, and personal priorities. Lufthansa CityLine is in the process of being replaced by Lufthansa City Airlines, which has a new, separate pay agreement.
Union & Industrial Relations
Italy's pilot union landscape is more fragmented than in France or Germany. The main pilot unions in Italy include ANPAC (Associazione Nazionale Piloti Aviazione Commerciale), which is the largest Italian airline pilot association, and various company-level representative bodies. At the European level, Italian pilots are represented through the European Cockpit Association (ECA), which lobbies on EASA regulations, flight time limitations, and working conditions across the continent.
Air Dolomiti, being a relatively small carrier with 1,200 total employees, has its own internal employee representation structure in accordance with Italian labour law. Italy's "Statuto dei Lavoratori" (Workers' Statute) and collective bargaining frameworks provide a baseline of protections for all aviation employees, including provisions on working hours, rest periods, termination protections, and social security contributions.
Industrial relations at Air Dolomiti have generally been stable. There are no publicly reported major pilot strikes at Air Dolomiti in recent years. Pilot reviews from 2024-2025 do mention some tension around roster management, Captain staffing levels, and the gap between management and employees, but these have not escalated to formal industrial action. The company's rapid growth has created operational pressures, particularly around the Captain shortage, which is acknowledged by both management and pilots.
Air Dolomiti's relatively small size means the relationship between pilots and management tends to be more personal than at a large flag carrier. Multiple pilot reviews mention the "friendly environment," "never feeling like just a number," and a positive company culture, even while acknowledging challenges with roster planning and Captain pay. New recruits should be aware that the Italian aviation labour market has fewer formal union-driven pay scale negotiations compared to Germany (where the VC union has significant bargaining power) or France (where the SNPL dominates). Pay and conditions at Air Dolomiti are more directly influenced by company-level decisions and the overall Lufthansa Group strategy.
Verdict: Who Is Air Dolomiti For?
🎯 Our Take
Air Dolomiti occupies a unique position in European aviation: a fast-growing regional carrier backed by the full strength of the Lufthansa Group, operating from beautiful Italian bases with access to one of the world's best staff travel programmes. For pilots who value rapid career progression, a company-funded type rating, and the security of belonging to Europe's largest airline group, Air Dolomiti is an excellent stepping stone or long-term home.
The trade-offs are clear. Salary, particularly for Captains, sits below the European average for comparable roles. Roster management needs improvement, and the current Captain shortage creates operational pressure on those in command. The all-Embraer, short-haul-only fleet means there is no pathway to widebody flying within the company itself. And the mandatory Italian language requirement limits the candidate pool.
For Italian-speaking pilots at the start of their career, Air Dolomiti offers something rare: the chance to build command experience quickly in a structured, professional environment, while enjoying the lifestyle benefits of living in northern Italy and travelling the world on Lufthansa Group staff tickets. It is an especially strong choice for low-hour pilots who want to enter the profession without self-funding a type rating.
1 Do I need to speak Italian to fly for Air Dolomiti?
Yes. Italian language is mandatory for all pilot positions at Air Dolomiti. This requirement is consistently emphasized in every job posting. Internal communications and company culture are conducted in Italian, and it is listed as a non-negotiable prerequisite alongside the EASA license and medical certificate.
2 Does Air Dolomiti pay for the type rating?
Yes. Air Dolomiti provides the full Embraer E-Jet type rating at no cost to pilots recruited through the official selection process. This applies to both low-hour First Officers and experienced pilots transitioning from other aircraft types. There are no "pay-to-fly" schemes.
3 How fast can I upgrade to Captain?
Air Dolomiti actively offers fast-track upgrade programmes for experienced First Officers. In the fast-track path, pilots can begin the upgrade process after approximately 6 months of line flying as F/O on the Embraer. Standard upgrade from entry F/O to Captain typically takes 3-5 years depending on fleet growth and individual progression. This is significantly faster than most European legacy carriers.
4 Can I transfer to Lufthansa mainline from Air Dolomiti?
There is no formal guaranteed pathway from Air Dolomiti to Lufthansa mainline. However, being part of the Lufthansa Group is an advantage. Lufthansa Group selection processes may be partially recognized, and the professional experience, DLR assessment results, and multi-crew operating experience gained at Air Dolomiti are valued credentials when applying to other group airlines. Several Air Dolomiti pilots have moved to other Lufthansa Group carriers over the years.
5 What are the pilot bases?
Air Dolomiti operates from three Italian bases: Verona (VRN, headquarters and primary base), Venice (VCE), and Florence (FLR). Most flights route to Munich and Frankfurt, so pilots typically depart from their Italian base and operate multi-day patterns through the German hubs. Transfers between bases during duty periods can occur due to operational requirements.
6 Can non-EU citizens apply?
Air Dolomiti requires applicants to have the unrestricted legal right to live and work within the European Union. Visa sponsorship is not available. Practically, this means EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, or holders of permanent EU residence permits that include unrestricted work rights.
7 What is the selection assessment like?
The selection process uses the DLR (German Aerospace Center) standard, the same psychometric assessment framework used across the Lufthansa Group. It includes aptitude tests (logic, spatial reasoning, multitasking, coordination, memory), ATPL knowledge questions, English proficiency, and a competency-based interview. The DLR assessment is typically held in Milan. Preparation materials for any Lufthansa Group DLR test are applicable.
8 Is Air Dolomiti a good first airline job?
Air Dolomiti is widely regarded as a good first airline for Italian-speaking pilots. The airline accepts low-hour, non-rated First Officers and provides the full type rating at company expense. The training programme is described as "excellent" by pilots, and the company culture is friendly and supportive. The Embraer E-Jet is a modern, well-respected platform that provides solid multi-crew experience. The fast upgrade pathway means you can build command hours earlier than at many competitors. The main drawbacks for long-term careers are the limited fleet diversity (Embraer only) and the Captain salary gap compared to larger carriers.
Official Links & Resources
Before applying or making any career decisions, always verify information directly with official sources. These are the key websites and organisations relevant to Air Dolomiti pilot careers:
Follow Air Dolomiti on LinkedIn for the latest pilot recruitment announcements. The company regularly posts open positions and hiring updates there, often with details not immediately available on the careers portal. Also check the Air Dolomiti Blog for behind-the-scenes insights into pilot life, including interviews with current Captains and training instructors.
