AlbaStar Overview & Company Profile
AlbaStar is a Spanish charter and on-demand airline founded in November 2009 by a group of Italian and British entrepreneurs. Headquartered in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, the airline received its Air Operator Certificate (E-AOC-106) on July 30, 2010, and has since carved out a distinctive niche in the European charter market. AlbaStar specializes in pilgrimage flights to Lourdes, France (serving 45+ European departure points), Mediterranean leisure charters, and wet-lease operations for tour operators across the continent.
Unlike the major scheduled carriers, AlbaStar operates on a pure charter and ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) model. The airline does not sell tickets directly to passengers. Instead, it contracts with tour operators, religious organizations, sports teams, and corporate clients to provide tailored flight services. This business model means the route network changes seasonally and year-to-year, with the airline reaching over 225 destinations annually across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Despite a fleet of just five aircraft, that destination count exceeds many larger regional carriers, reflecting the operational complexity of charter flying.
In August 2022, Spanish investment firm Sherpa Capital acquired a majority stake in AlbaStar, supported by a 15 million euro loan from Cofides (the Spanish government's development finance company). This investment signaled a new growth phase: the airline projected revenues exceeding 100 million euros and EBITDA of approximately 17 million euros for 2024, according to Sherpa Capital's public portfolio disclosures. AlbaStar holds IOSA certification (since 2019), is an IATA member, and maintains ISO 9001:2015 quality management certification.
Charter flying at AlbaStar is fundamentally different from scheduled operations at airlines like Vueling or Iberia. Routes change weekly or even daily based on client contracts. There are no fixed timetables published months in advance. Pilots may operate to Lourdes one day, a Greek island the next, and then position an aircraft to Italy for a sports charter. This creates high route variety but also less predictability in scheduling. For pilots who thrive on variety and dislike repetitive rotations, charter flying can be appealing. For those who value routine and long-term bid planning, it presents challenges.
Fleet Composition & Type Ratings
AlbaStar operates an all-Boeing 737-800NG fleet, configured in a single-class 189-seat layout optimized for charter operations. The airline previously operated a Boeing 737-400 Classic (170 seats), which was phased out as the fleet standardized on the newer Next Generation variant. All five aircraft are powered by CFM International CFM56-7B engines, the industry workhorse for narrowbody operations.
The single-type fleet simplifies operations considerably: all pilots hold the same type rating, all maintenance tooling and spares are standardized, and crew scheduling is fully interchangeable across the fleet. For a small operator like AlbaStar, this is a strategic advantage that keeps costs down and operational flexibility high.
| Aircraft Type | Role | In Service | Configuration / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boeing 737-800NG | Charter / ACMI | 5 | 189 seats, single class. CFM56-7B engines. Core fleet for all operations. |
| Boeing 737-400 (retired) | Charter | 0 | 170 seats. Phased out during fleet modernization. |
Fleet data as of early 2026. AlbaStar has announced plans to double fleet size as part of its growth strategy under Sherpa Capital ownership.
In October 2023, AlbaStar signed a nose-to-tail component support agreement with Fokker Services Group, covering comprehensive maintenance support for the B737-800 fleet. This partnership provides pooling, repair, and overhaul services for rotable and expendable components, reducing maintenance turnaround times and improving aircraft availability.
The airline also engages in wet-lease operations, providing aircraft with crew to other carriers. In November 2024, AlbaStar wet-leased two Boeing 737s to Argentine low-cost carrier Flybondi, demonstrating both the flexibility of its business model and the demand for its operational capacity.
Since AlbaStar operates exclusively Boeing 737-800NG aircraft, the only type rating required is the B737 NG (covering the -600/-700/-800/-900 variants under the same type certificate). Pilots applying to AlbaStar must already hold a current B737-800 type rating. Unlike larger carriers, AlbaStar does not appear to fund type rating training for new recruits. This means candidates typically need to self-fund or arrive with an existing rating from a previous employer. The fleet growth plans under Sherpa Capital suggest the B737 will remain AlbaStar's sole type for the foreseeable future, though the eventual question of transitioning to the B737 MAX or another narrowbody type remains open.
Pilot Salary & Compensation
Detailed, publicly available salary data for AlbaStar pilots is extremely limited. The airline does not publish pay scales, and no AlbaStar-specific collective agreement has been found in public records. The figures presented below are compiled from broader Spanish aviation industry benchmarks, regional charter airline data, and general B737 operator compensation surveys across Southern Europe. They should be treated as rough estimates rather than confirmed AlbaStar figures.
Spanish pilot compensation typically comprises a base monthly salary, flight hour payments, per diem allowances for overnight stops, night flying premiums, and seniority increments. The overall pay structure is governed by Spanish labor law and, where applicable, collective agreements negotiated with SEPLA (the Spanish Airline Pilots' Association). However, smaller charter operators like AlbaStar may negotiate terms individually or through company-level agreements rather than sector-wide frameworks.
Estimated Salary Ranges (Spanish Charter B737 Operations)
| Role | Annual Gross (est.) | Monthly Base (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Officer (entry) | 28,000 - 40,000 euros | ~2,300 - 3,300 euros | Entry-level F/O at Spanish charter operators. Palma de Mallorca base. |
| First Officer (experienced) | 40,000 - 55,000 euros | ~3,300 - 4,600 euros | 3-5+ years on type. Includes flight hour pay and per diems. |
| Captain | 87,000 - 140,000 euros | ~7,200 - 11,700 euros | European charter B737 Captain range. Wide spread depending on seniority and operator. |
Figures are estimates compiled from Spanish aviation salary surveys (ERI SalaryExpert, industry benchmarks) and European charter operator data. They do not represent confirmed AlbaStar pay scales.
These salary figures are approximations based on publicly available Spanish aviation industry data and comparable European charter B737 operators. No AlbaStar-specific pay scales, collective agreement details, or confirmed hourly rates were found during research. The wide ranges reflect significant variation across the Spanish charter sector. Salary reports for Palma de Mallorca-based operations suggest figures toward the lower end of these ranges. Prospective applicants should request detailed compensation information directly from AlbaStar during the recruitment process. Spanish social security contributions (approximately 6.35% employee share) and income tax (19-47% progressive scale) will reduce gross figures to net take-home pay.
According to salary surveys covering the broader Spanish aviation market, the average commercial airline pilot in Spain earns between 54,000 and 82,000 euros annually. Entry-level regional First Officers typically start in the 33,000 to 40,000 euro range. These averages include both scheduled and charter operators across all fleet types. Charter operators generally offer lower base salaries than scheduled carriers like Iberia or Vueling, but may compensate with higher flight hour payments during peak seasons and more varied flying. The cost of living in Palma de Mallorca is moderate by European standards, which is relevant for pilots based there.
Roster Pattern & Quality of Life
Roster details specific to AlbaStar are not publicly documented. As a charter operator, AlbaStar's scheduling patterns differ fundamentally from scheduled airlines. Charter rosters are driven by client bookings rather than published timetables, meaning the flying program can change with shorter notice than at a scheduled carrier. Peak periods (summer, religious pilgrimage seasons, holiday weekends) bring intensive flying, while shoulder and winter months may see reduced activity.
AlbaStar operates under EASA Flight Time Limitations (FTL), as mandated for all EU-AOC holders. Spanish regulations implemented through AESA (Agencia Estatal de Seguridad Aerea, the Spanish Civil Aviation Authority) apply the standard EASA limits: maximum 900 flight hours per calendar year, maximum 100 hours in any 28 consecutive days, and minimum rest periods between duties. These rules provide a regulatory floor for quality of life regardless of the operator's internal scheduling practices.
For context, comparable Spanish charter operators like Privilege Style (based in Madrid) have been reported to use roster patterns such as 21 days on / 10 days off or 19 days on / 9 days off. While AlbaStar's specific pattern is unknown, charter operators in Spain and Southern Europe typically follow similar block-on/block-off structures during peak season, transitioning to lighter schedules during quieter periods.
The airline's bases at Palma de Mallorca and Milan Malpensa, plus seasonal operations from cities including Madrid, Bergamo, and Trapani (Sicily), mean that some pilots may need to position or commute depending on their assigned base. Charter flying often involves early starts, late finishes, and quick turnarounds at unfamiliar airports, which demands flexibility and adaptability from crews.
No specific AlbaStar roster pattern, days-off guarantee, or block-hour target was found during research. The information above reflects the EASA regulatory minimum and general Spanish charter industry practices. Candidates should ask detailed questions about roster patterns, guaranteed days off, standby policies, and seasonal variation during the interview process. Charter rosters can be significantly more variable than scheduled airline rosters, particularly during summer peak season.
Benefits & Perks
As a Spanish-registered employer, AlbaStar is required by law to provide certain statutory benefits to all employees. However, details of any additional company-specific benefits package for pilots have not been publicly disclosed. The information below outlines what Spanish law guarantees, supplemented by general industry practices at comparable charter operators.
Spain's social protection framework is relatively robust by European standards. The Seguridad Social system covers healthcare, unemployment insurance, disability, and retirement pensions for all employed workers. Employee contributions amount to approximately 6.35% of gross salary, while employer contributions are around 30%. This means that while gross salaries may appear lower than in some other European markets, the statutory safety net is comprehensive.
One notable gap compared to legacy carriers: charter operators rarely offer the kind of generous staff travel benefits that make flag carriers so attractive. At a scheduled airline like Iberia or Air France, pilots and their families can access heavily discounted standby travel across a global alliance network. At a pure charter operator like AlbaStar, this benefit is typically limited or absent, since the airline does not sell seats to the public.
No AlbaStar-specific benefits documentation was found during research. The details above reflect Spanish legal minimums and general charter industry practices. Key questions to ask during recruitment include: loss of license insurance provision, supplementary health coverage, per diem rates by destination, and any staff travel or positioning allowances. Pilots coming from larger carriers should be prepared for a leaner benefits package at a small charter operator.
Career Progression & Seniority
Career progression at a small charter airline like AlbaStar follows a fundamentally different trajectory than at major scheduled carriers. With approximately 200-280 total employees and a fleet of just five aircraft, the pilot group is small, likely numbering between 30 and 60 pilots (a typical crew-to-aircraft ratio for B737 charter operations). This creates both opportunities and limitations.
On the positive side, a small operation means that pilots are often more visible to management, may take on additional responsibilities earlier in their careers, and can gain diverse operational experience (different airports, varying mission types, wet-lease operations). On the other hand, the upgrade path from First Officer to Captain depends entirely on vacancies, which at a small airline can be infrequent and unpredictable.
| Career Milestone | Typical Timeline (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Join as First Officer (B737) | Day 1 | Must hold current B737-800 type rating. No ab-initio pathway. |
| Line training & consolidation | 2-4 months | Standard line check and route familiarization period. |
| Experienced F/O | 2-5 years | Gain charter operational experience, diverse airports, wet-lease flying. |
| Captain upgrade | Variable (vacancy-dependent) | Dependent on Captain positions becoming available. Small fleet = limited openings. |
| Training roles (TRI/TRE) | Variable | Possible but limited by fleet size. Requires additional qualifications. |
AlbaStar has a partnership with FlyBy Aviation Academy (based in Spain), which offers an accelerated pathway for graduates. Top-performing FlyBy cadets receive a preferential selection process at AlbaStar, with a contract offered before the completion of their training. However, this is not a fully funded cadet program comparable to what Air France or easyJet offers. Candidates through FlyBy self-fund their training (CPL/IR and ATPL theory) and must obtain a B737 type rating to be eligible for line operations.
AlbaStar's partnership with FlyBy Aviation Academy represents one of the few structured entry pathways into the airline. The academy provides integrated ATPL training, and AlbaStar offers a preferential hiring process for its graduates. This is significant for aspiring pilots because it provides a degree of employment certainty that is rare in the European market. However, it is important to understand that "preferential" does not mean "guaranteed," and the financial investment in self-funded training is substantial (typically 80,000-120,000 euros for a full integrated ATPL course in Europe, plus the B737 type rating).
The acquisition by Sherpa Capital in 2022 and the subsequent financial performance suggest AlbaStar is in a growth phase. The airline has publicly stated plans to double its fleet size and was reportedly seeking a strategic partner as of 2024. Fleet expansion would directly create Captain and First Officer positions, potentially accelerating career progression for existing pilots. However, until new aircraft are actually delivered and contracts secured, these remain plans rather than commitments. Pilots considering AlbaStar should weigh the potential for growth against the inherent uncertainty of a small, privately-held charter operator.
Recruitment Process & Requirements
AlbaStar recruits experienced pilots on an as-needed basis. Unlike large scheduled carriers with annual intake campaigns, charter operators typically hire when operational demand requires additional crew. Positions are advertised through the AlbaStar careers page, aviation job boards, and industry networks. The selection process, while not as extensively documented as at major airlines, follows standard European charter operator practices.
Minimum Requirements
Selection Process (Estimated)
Online Application
Submit CV, license copies, medical certificate, and type rating documentation via the AlbaStar careers portal or designated aviation recruitment platform. Applications are reviewed against current operational needs.
Document Screening & Verification
HR and flight operations review qualifications, recency, and experience. Candidates must demonstrate current B737-800 type rating validity and recent flying hours on type.
Technical Interview & Assessment
Typically includes a technical interview covering B737 systems knowledge, operational procedures, CRM competencies, and charter-specific scenarios. A simulator assessment may be included depending on the candidate's recency and the position.
Base Training & Line Check
Successful candidates complete company-specific conversion training, including differences training (if applicable), route familiarization, and supervised line flying before being released to line operations.
Charter airline recruitment differs from scheduled carrier selection in several important ways. There are typically no large-scale psychometric test batteries or group exercises. The emphasis is on proven operational experience, current type rating proficiency, and flexibility. Demonstrating familiarity with diverse European airports, experience in irregular operations, and comfort with short-notice schedule changes are all valuable. Pilots with wet-lease or ACMI experience are particularly attractive candidates. If applying through the FlyBy Academy pathway, maintaining strong academic performance and networking with AlbaStar's training department during the course are recommended.
How AlbaStar Compares: Airline Radar Chart
How does AlbaStar compare to other Spanish and Southern European charter operators? Below is a comparative analysis against Privilege Style (a Madrid-based charter operator flying the Airbus A321) and Wamos Air (a Spanish charter carrier operating widebody aircraft including the Boeing 747 and Airbus A330). All three airlines share the Spanish charter market and compete for similar pilot profiles, though their fleet types and mission profiles differ.
Key Takeaways from the Comparison
All three score modestly across the board. This reflects the reality of the Spanish charter sector: smaller operators, limited public data on compensation and benefits, and the inherent variability of charter flying. None of these airlines offers the kind of structured career, guaranteed progression, or comprehensive benefits found at major legacy carriers like Iberia, Air France, or Lufthansa.
AlbaStar's single-type fleet is both a strength and a limitation. The all-B737-800 fleet means standardized operations and full crew interchangeability, but it also means no fleet progression. Wamos Air's widebody operations (A330, 747) offer the possibility of long-haul flying and fleet transitions. Privilege Style operates the A321, which is a different type but similarly narrowbody-focused.
Privilege Style edges ahead on work-life data. The reported 21/10 or 19/9 roster pattern at Privilege Style provides more concrete scheduling predictability than what is publicly known about AlbaStar's roster structure. For pilots who prioritize a defined work-rest cycle, this is a meaningful differentiator.
AlbaStar's growth trajectory is the wildcard. Under Sherpa Capital ownership, with plans to double the fleet and revenues already exceeding 100 million euros, AlbaStar may offer the most upside potential of the three. Early joiners at a growing operator can benefit from faster career progression and increased stability as the company scales. However, growth plans at small airlines should always be evaluated cautiously.
Scores are editorial estimates based on limited publicly available data. The Spanish charter sector is notably opaque regarding pilot compensation, roster details, and benefits. These scores represent a general assessment informed by industry benchmarks, reported salary ranges, fleet data, and operational profiles. Individual experiences will vary significantly. As more data becomes available, these scores may be revised.
Union & Industrial Relations
The primary pilot union in Spain is SEPLA (Sindicato Espanol de Pilotos de Lineas Aereas), founded in 1965 and representing over 7,300 pilots across Spanish airlines. SEPLA claims approximately 95% coverage of the Spanish commercial pilot workforce, making it one of the most representative pilot unions in Europe. It is a member of both IFALPA (since 1966) and the European Cockpit Association (ECA).
Whether SEPLA has a formal company-level collective agreement specifically covering AlbaStar pilots is not confirmed in publicly available records. At smaller charter operators, pilot representation may be handled through SEPLA's general framework, through direct company negotiation, or through the Spanish general labor union structure (e.g., UGT, CCOO). Pilots considering AlbaStar should inquire about the specific collective agreement (convenio colectivo) that applies to flight crew.
SEPLA Structure & Governance
Recent SEPLA Activity (Sector-Wide)
SEPLA membership is voluntary in Spain, but joining provides access to collective bargaining representation, legal support, loss-of-license group insurance schemes, and a professional network of over 7,000 Spanish pilots. For pilots at smaller operators like AlbaStar, where company-level negotiating power may be limited, SEPLA membership can be particularly valuable as a safety net. The annual membership fee is typically a percentage of gross salary. Prospective AlbaStar pilots should contact SEPLA directly to understand what representation, if any, currently exists at the company level.
Verdict: Who Is AlbaStar For?
🎯 Our Take
AlbaStar occupies a very specific niche in the European aviation landscape: a small, growing Spanish charter operator with a lean B737-800 fleet, a diverse route network driven by client contracts, and ambitions backed by private equity investment. It is not comparable to flying for Iberia, Ryanair, or Air France in terms of scale, compensation, or structured career progression.
The strengths are real: variety in destinations (225+ annually), a single-type fleet that simplifies daily operations, a Mediterranean base in Palma de Mallorca, IOSA and IATA certification for a small operator, and genuine growth potential under Sherpa Capital ownership. For pilots early in their career who need hours on the B737, want European charter experience, or are looking for a stepping stone before moving to a larger carrier, AlbaStar can serve that purpose.
The trade-offs are equally real: limited public data on compensation suggests salaries are at the lower end of the European spectrum, benefits are likely basic compared to flag carriers, career progression depends entirely on company growth and Captain vacancies in a very small fleet, and the charter business model brings scheduling unpredictability. Pilots should approach AlbaStar with realistic expectations and clear eyes about what a small charter operator can and cannot offer.
1 Does AlbaStar require a type rating before hiring?
Yes. AlbaStar requires candidates to hold a current Boeing 737-800 type rating at the time of application. Unlike larger carriers that fund type rating training for new recruits, AlbaStar expects pilots to arrive already rated on type. This is standard practice among smaller charter operators.
2 What language do I need to speak?
ICAO English Level 4 is the minimum requirement. Level 5 or above is preferred. Spanish is not formally required but is highly advantageous given the Palma de Mallorca headquarters and Spanish operational environment. Italian is also useful for crews based at Milan Malpensa or operating Italian routes. All EASA standard RT communications are conducted in English.
3 Can non-EU citizens apply to AlbaStar?
AlbaStar requires EU/EEA right-to-work status. Non-EU citizens would need a valid EU work permit. The airline does not appear to sponsor work visas. As a Spanish-AOC holder, EASA Part-FCL licensing applies, and non-EASA license holders would need to validate or convert their licenses before being eligible.
4 What is charter flying actually like compared to scheduled?
Charter flying offers significantly more route variety than scheduled operations. At AlbaStar, pilots may operate to over 225 different destinations annually, compared to the fixed route network at a scheduled airline. However, this comes with less scheduling predictability, more unfamiliar airports, earlier report times (many charter flights depart very early morning or late evening), and occasionally shorter notice for roster changes. The flying itself (aircraft handling, SOP compliance, safety standards) is identical to scheduled operations under EASA regulations.
5 Is AlbaStar a good stepping stone to a larger airline?
For pilots who need to build B737 hours and gain European multi-base operational experience, AlbaStar can be an effective stepping stone. The diverse route network, exposure to many different airports, and charter operational experience are valued by larger carriers reviewing applications. However, pilots should be aware that some scheduled airlines prefer applicants from scheduled operations, and the lower compensation at a small charter operator means a financial trade-off during the building years.
6 Where would I be based?
AlbaStar's primary base is Palma de Mallorca (PMI), Spain. Milan Malpensa (MXP) serves as a secondary base. The airline also operates seasonally from Madrid, Bergamo (Italy), and Trapani (Sicily). Base assignment depends on operational needs and may change seasonally. Pilots should clarify base options and any relocation support during the recruitment process.
7 What is the FlyBy Aviation Academy partnership?
AlbaStar has a preferential hiring agreement with FlyBy Aviation Academy. Top graduates of FlyBy's integrated ATPL program receive a contract offer from AlbaStar before completing their training. This is not a fully funded cadet program: students self-fund their training at FlyBy and must independently obtain a B737 type rating. The partnership provides a structured pathway to employment but does not eliminate the financial investment required for pilot training.
8 How financially stable is AlbaStar?
AlbaStar appears to be in a period of financial growth. The 2022 acquisition by Sherpa Capital (backed by a 15 million euro Cofides loan), projected 2024 revenues exceeding 100 million euros, and EBITDA of approximately 17 million euros suggest a healthy financial trajectory. The airline also holds IOSA and IATA certifications, which require ongoing financial and operational audits. However, the charter aviation sector is inherently cyclical and sensitive to economic downturns, fuel price volatility, and geopolitical disruption. As a privately held company, AlbaStar's detailed financial statements are not publicly available.
Official Links & Resources
Before applying or making career decisions, always verify information directly with official sources. These are the key websites and organizations relevant to an AlbaStar pilot career:
For the most current information about AlbaStar pilot opportunities, check the official careers page regularly and set up alerts on aviation job boards like FlightDeckFriend, AVIA Solutions, and ReedAviation. Charter operator vacancies can appear and fill quickly, often driven by seasonal demand spikes. Networking with current or former AlbaStar pilots through LinkedIn or professional pilot forums is also one of the most reliable ways to get insider perspective on current conditions and culture at the airline.
