Training Paths

There are many different ways to approach your training and they all have their pro’s and cons.  It pays to think carefully about what you are trying to achieve and the sort of training that will give you the best result.

In essence there are five ways to learn to fly.

1. AeroClubs
2. Flying Schools
3. Integrated Flying Schools
4. Cadet Programmes
5. Military Training

Aeroclubs and Flying Schools generally cater for those who want to fly while holding down a job or perhaps studying at school or college.  The benefits are that you tend to pay as you go and you can set your schedule to suit your agenda.  You are often likely to find some highly experienced career flight instructors at these training schools and the value of such lifetime experience is invaluable.  It’s also true that you will find low hour instructors who perhaps have only just learned to fly themselves.  Sadly, the pilot shortage has meant that most experienced pilots have moved up the career ladder so make sure that when you are searching for a training school, you ask about the experience of the instructors and ideally demand that you are allocated the instructor of your choice and that that instructor does all your training.

There is not a huge difference between AeroClubs and Flying Schools, but generally the AeroClub is a more relaxed atmosphere.  This may or may not suit you and it pays to take your time and seek recommendations when selecting your trainer.

Integrated Flying Schools are increasingly common.  They often offer full time programmes that take you from your first flight through to your commercial licence. These programmes also provide ground instruction to get you through your theory subjects and many also run the cadet programmes for the airlines.  The best are actually run like an airline with flight dispatch, flight briefing and planning staff, and flight scheduling. Many expect you to wear a uniform.

Again, you may probably find a lot of low hour instructors so it pays to look around. Find out exactly who will do your training. How much group training will their be?   An integrated school may look impressive and busy, but remember that busy can also mean that your training will be rushed.

Ask questions as to how the organisation manages safety.  A training organisation with a good safety system will train you the way the airline wants. Thats safety first and schedule second.  If the atmosphere seems overly pressured, then consider whether this organisation can give you the solid training foundation you need for your future aviation career.

Cadet Programmes are run on behalf of the airlines. Most are run by integrated schools but some airlines have their own dedicated training academies. The big plus of joining a cadet programme is that you have already passed the first layer of airline selection in order to get on to their programme!  If you make it through training, you are probably guaranteed a job.

The negatives are that, just like the integrated schools you may be paying tens of thousands of  dollars for the privilege.

Finally there is Military Training.  The positives are that there is zero cost to you and that military pilots are well respected by the airlines.  The negatives are that  you will have to sign up for a fixed term commission with the defence force and also that aviation training positions are much in demand and therefore highly competitive.