Flying Schools in Australia: A Comprehensive Guide 2024

Latest Facts and News:

• The aviation industry in Australia is experiencing a surge in demand for skilled pilots due to fleet expansions by major airlines.

• Recent reports indicate a growing preference for technologically advanced training programs among aviation students.

• The Australian Aviation District itself has a market size of 3.2 billion USD as of 2024.

• Flying schools in Australia use some of the latest simulation technologies and high-quality fleets to train their pilots.

• Stay tuned for updates on government initiatives supporting the growth of aviation education and training in Australia.

With so many options for flying schools in Australia, how do you decide which one to choose? Australia, a top-tier country for aviation and education, has so many flying school options, and we are here to help you find the best flying school in Australia for international students. We want to help your dreams take flight and simplify the research process as you navigate the country’s leading institutions and opportunities for aspiring pilots. 

From the top flying schools in Australia to all the programs and specialisations offered by these institutes, everything is right here on one blog page! 

The Best Flying Schools In Australia List 2024

If you are trying to immigrate to Australia to join a flying school, then here are some of the best flying schools in Australia:

1. Qantas Group Pilot Academy 

The Qantas Group Pilot Academy, founded in 1982, is often regarded as one of the best flying schools in Australia for international students. This institute aims to meet the ever-growing needs of skilled pilots in the booming aviation industry. The Qantas Group Pilot Academy was launched in collaboration with Flight Training Adelaide, one of the flying schools in Australia that provides for some of the world's leading international airlines. 

This academy has two batches- one starting in January and one in October. Dates are subject to change annually. They also provide an ample number of scholarships based on equity-based grants for applicants who need financial assistance for their course and qualify for it. 

The application process for international students for this flying school in Australia is discussed below. 

• Apply to your academic and health records and flying experience. 

• If you clear this round, you must meet with officials from FTA and Qantas next and attempt a computer-based training assessment followed by a pilot aptitude test. 

• You will have to attempt a core skills test and sit for an interview after this as well. 

• Finally, you must submit a CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate, proving your health credentials. 

2. Australian International Aviation College

Australian International Aviation College is one of the best flying schools in Australia. AIAC boasts of qualifications with the Australian Qualifications Framework, Nationally Recognized Training, and the Australian Government’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority. With many industry partnerships with renowned flight companies like Qantas and Cathay Pacific, being a student at AIAC warrants a high return on investment. 

To apply for a seat with the AIAC, you must fill out the form on their website, after which you will receive an enrollment application which you must fill out. You need the following documents for this application since you are applying for a flying school in Australia for international students - the procedure is slightly different. 

• Proof of age

• Academic records indicating that you’ve completed K+12 education

• IELTS score

• CASA class one medical certificate

• Police verification certificate 

• Proof that you can bear the financial costs of this education 

Also Read: How to Go to Australia from India for Job? Experts Guide

3. Australian National Airline College 

Australian National Airline College is one of Australia's most internationally recognized flight schools. This institute has been imparting flight training for over 25 years and has a 100 per cent safety record. Impressive, right? Graduates from this flight school have been hired by international airlines worldwide. Moreover, you can call this the best flying school in Australia because not one but two aviation authorities license it:

• Australian Civil Aviation Authority 

• Civil Aviation Authority China 

 This institute is also CRICOS-approved as a flight school for international students in Australia. 

The application process for this flying school in Australia for international students looks like this:

• Complete the “Enrol” form on the institute’s website. 

• Accept the Offer Letter and course agreement. 

• Sign the course agreement and email them saying you have accepted it. 

• Apply for your student visa- the institute will guide you through the visa process. 

4. Flight One (formerly known as Australian Wings Academy)

Flight One (formerly known as Australian Wings Academy) is one of the renowned flight schools in Australia and is considered among the best flying schools in Australia. Located in Queensland, it has two campuses- one in Gold Coast and the other in Brisbane. This institute takes great pride in successfully training many commercial airline pilots, But it also provides many other licences for different flying purposes. The employability and flight readiness of graduates from this institute are pretty high, often making it known as the best flying school in Australia for international students. 

This institute recognizes the financial needs of many students and assists with student loan and student visa applications. 

The applicant process for Flight One is quite simple:

• File an initial application for the course you want to pursue on the website. 

• Understand the requirements and application eligibility and make sure you are eligible. 

• Undertake the Pilot Aptitude Test. 

• Upon successful completion of the test, accept the offer of acceptance and pay the fees. 

5. CAE Melbourne 

CAE Melbourne, located at Melbourne's Moorabbin airport, is known for training and creating seasoned pilots hired not just in Australia but in the greater Asia-Pacific region. CAE Melbourne integrates ground-level courses with flying instruction, leading to the best deliverable and training experience for a flying aspirant. It offers an integrated commercial pilot's licence that trains students in multi-engine command instrument training. It is a legally compliant and unique course with unique benefits as it is set in Melbourne. 

To apply for this course, you must:

• Fulfil the online application form. 

• Have an IELTS score of 5.5 or above. 

• Have the required CASA 1 Medical Certificate

The rest of the process is quite similar to other flight schools. 

Programs Offered and Specialisations

Here is everything you need to know about the best flying schools in Australia for international students.

Requirements for Enrolling in a Flying School in Australia

To attend a flying school in Australia, you need to meet several key requirements:

• CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate: You must obtain this certificate, which ensures you meet the medical standards required for flying. Regular medical check-ups are necessary to maintain this certification.
• Age Requirements: Most flying schools require you to be at least 17 or 18 years old to start your flight training.
• Educational Background: Generally, a high school diploma is sufficient, although some schools may have additional educational prerequisites.
• Financial Preparedness: Flight training can be expensive, so it's important to have the necessary funds or explore financing options to cover the costs associated with training.
• English Proficiency: Good English language skills are essential for effective communication in aviation.

Also Read: Why Choose Australia Over Other Countries? 6 Top Reasons

How do you Apply to a Flying School in Australia?

Applying to a flying school in Australia is not very complicated. Here is a step-by-step illustration of these steps:
Step 1: Research Schools

Start by exploring different aviation schools or flight training academies. Look for reputable institutions that offer the kind of training program you’re interested in.

Step 2: Application

Once you’ve chosen a school, fill out their application form. Be sure to note any specific requirements and keep track of application deadlines.

Step 3: Written Tests

Most schools will ask you to take written tests. These will check your knowledge of aviation theory, regulations, and procedures.

Step 4: Interviews

Prepare for interviews with instructors or admissions officers. This is your chance to talk about your passion for flying and show your dedication to safety.

Step 5: Simulator Assessments

Some schools will have you take simulator assessments to see how you handle flying in a controlled, virtual environment.

Step 6: Flight Tests

Be ready for flight tests where you’ll demonstrate your actual flying skills, such as takeoffs, landings, navigation, and emergency procedures.

Also Read: Apply Working Visa in Australia: Types, Benefits, Process

International Students Perspective

When we look for a flying school in Australia for international students, our requirements widen. A flying school accommodating international students should have the strength and bandwidth to support not only the education but also the accommodation and livelihood of their international students. 

Thankfully, most flying schools in Australia, especially the ones we’ve listed out here, are international student-friendly and have a high turnout of international students as well. International students are treated no differently than the local students, except in the selection process. The application process asks for different requirements from international students applying to flying schools in Australia. 

Requirements for international students:

• A valid passport 

• Proof of funds (or a scholarship application if the school permits)

• CASA 1 medical certificate 

• Student visa 

• Accommodation (check whether your flying school provides student housing)

• IELTS scores of 5.5 or above

• Successful completion of all the necessary tests 

• Police clearance certificate 

Based on the reviews, testimonials, and experiences of international students who went to flying schools in Australia, there is a strong community of international pilots in Australia and also strong career prospects as well. Studying in one of the flight schools in Australia will give you exposure to not only your dream career but also the best of what Australia has to offer. 

Industry Trends And Future Prospects

There is an increased demand for pilots in most countries around the world. This includes Australia, which is actively recruiting and looking for pilots to join their airlines. 

The global pilot training market is one of the most sought-after and competitive educational fields. As of 2023, the global pilot training industry has a market share of almost 7 billion USD. This is further expected to grow by 13.2 per cent. 

The Australian Aviation District itself has a market size of 3.2 billion USD as of 2024. This number is expected to cross 4 billion by 2030, indicating the high demand Australia has for pilots. 

The revenue of this industry itself has grown 1.5 per cent (speaking of domestic aviation only) and is expected to reach almost 18 billion AUD this year. 

Air travel is one of the most preferred ways to travel in Australia, within and outside the country, so it makes sense that the aviation industry in the country is one of the most profitable in the world. 

Conclusion 

Pursuing your dreams in one of the flying schools in Australia has a high return on investment. Not only do you get high-quality training but also high salaries and a very conducive work environment. Australia also upholds high standards for safety and security in terms of aviation, so you have nothing to worry about in those aspects, either!

If you are looking to find out about flying schools in Australia and dream of being a pilot there, TerraTern is the place where you can find the exact guidance and information about it. TerraTern can help you move to Australia and secure a spot in a flying school.