Still a better prospect than a random flying school with nothing really guaranteed at the end, at least there's a more defined path here. And I would probably guess a higher priority in employment for Academy graduates than those who aren't. If not all of those who graduate the academy have a position within the group upon graduation then that means there's a minuscule chance for non Academy graduates.
Assumptions being what they are, would suggest that any prospective applicant carefully check the fine print.