Find a Training Partner

Integrated, modular, distance learning, degree? There are advantages to each training pathway, so consider them all. A modular course can be more flexible, allowing you to complete your training in stages, allowing for work or family commitments. An integrated course will usually be shorter and more intense but is usually more expensive. University degrees are not usually required by airlines, but do provide an alternative qualification should a professional flying career not work out for any reason. Some ATOs offer degrees alongside pilot training courses. 

Look at the number of hours of instruction included, accommodation costs, whether there is student support, and what materials (ground school books, uniform, headset?) are included. Plus flying time, exam and landing fees. Is there a training guarantee? Look at value for money as well as the headline price: are there extra costs, is anything omitted?

What entry qualifications do you need? Is there any pre-course selection or assessment? If so, what does it consist of, what’s the pass rate and what preparation is recommended?

Does the training provider offer a payment plan or payment modules? Are there any loans or scholarships/bursaries available? And never, ever pay for the entire course up front!

Some providers offer remedial training at no extra cost should a student struggle with part of the training process. Ask what happens in the event of a student failing one or more phases of the course.

Theory education is an important part of flight training and, at some schools, it can be an overlooked element of the course. But we know that having a sound base of theoretical knowledge makes you a better aviator. So get a feel for how the organisations you’re researching approach ground training. Ask what books and materials they use, whether teaching is in person, virtual or distance learning, and how much time is devoted to it? We recommend choosing a Padpilot ground school partner.

Find out how many students will be in each ground school class and what the student to flight instructor ratio is. Ask if you’ll always fly with the same instructor. Being in smaller classes makes asking questions easier, and flying with the same person helps with continuity and progress.

Compare the training aircraft and facilities at each of the flight schools you’re considering. What’s the safety record like? Be aware that more modern equipment doesn’t necessarily mean better training, but newer aircraft may be more reliable, comfortable and fitted with up-to-date technology. Check out the classrooms, common areas and accommodation too. Are they well maintained and welcoming?

Some schools have on-site mechanics which means that aircraft are checked and repaired more quickly, reducing time spent waiting for an aircraft to become available to fly.

To apply for your first airline role, you’ll need a CPL/MEIR plus APS MCC (commercial pilot licence, multi engine instrument rating and an airline pilot standard multi-crew cooperation course) which is commonly referred to as a ‘frozen’ ATPL. But many training providers also include professional development alongside the regulatory training in order to build soft skills and other competencies. Ask for details on what and how this training is delivered.

Ask if the school has any formal airline agreements, how long it takes graduates to find professional flying jobs and who they now fly for. Research what employment preparation and support are offered by the school. Is it part of the course or are students expected to do their own research?

What are the ground school pass rates and average exam scores? And ask about first-time passes for the commercial pilot licence and instrument rating skills test. Some airline recruiters will be looking for high ATPL exam marks and first-time skills test passes.

Where you’re based can make a big difference to your flying training. For example, the UK has some of the world’s busiest airspace – which can be challenging to learn in – but is ultimately very useful experience. But in countries where the weather is more favourable and reliable, a new pilot can make faster progress. Also, consider the school’s location in terms of lifestyle. You’ll be inside an aircraft or a classroom for much of your training programme, but you need to relax and have fun occasionally too!