Do you wish to fly high? And we do mean it literally? Well, pilots are in high demand owing to the stupendous growth of the aviation sector globally, with average salaries at $125,000 worldwide for pilots, per various reports.
Studying at the best flying schools in the world can help you realize this dream. Commercial pilots need a bachelor’s degree, while those piloting smaller or single-engine aircraft do not always need higher educational qualifications.
Here are some options you can look for the best pilot training institutes in the world
A bachelor’s or master’s in aviation is one of the preferred study abroad options students seek in 2024. A degree from one of the best flight schools in the world will develop the skills required to become an aviation expert and open different career opportunities.
Here are a few reasons why studying aviation at the best pilot school in the world can benefit a student:
Career opportunities - As per the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, airline and commercial pilot jobs are projected to rise 4% by 2032. In fact, the aviation industry offers varied career opportunities for its students beyond becoming pilots.
If a student is not interested in a flying role, they can use their knowledge to get a managerial-level job on the ground. You can be a skilled pilot and a ground manager with one degree.
Flexible work schedule - The work schedule in the aviation industry usually is not limited to a 9 - 5 shift. It depends on the job type and role. For example, a pilot may only need to fly a few days a week, depending on the flight roster.
Expanding industry knowledge - Specialist courses deepen your awareness of the aviation industry by covering vital technical topics. You'll acquire the technical know-how required to succeed in your job while meeting the challenges of the changing dynamics of the aviation industry.
Network building - Most colleges worldwide have internship or placement tie-ups with big giants and industry experts. These mentor programs or internships may help with network building, resulting in better career prospects post-course completion.
Best 8 Flying Schools in World – Comprehensive List
Flying Schools
Country
Average Tuition Fees*
Purdue University Aviation College
USA
$31,104 (INR 25.97 lakh)
University of North Dakota
USA
$35,089 (INR 29.29. lakh)
Ohio State University Aviation College
USA
$9,700 - $23,000 (INR 8.09 lakh to INR 19.2 lakh)
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University College of Aviation
USA
$12,072 (INR 10.07 lakh)
Western Michigan University Aviation College
USA
$76,694 (INR 64 lakh) - full course fee
San Jose State University College of Aviation
USA
$45,210 - 47,510 (INR 37.74 lakh to INR 39.67 lakh)
Oxford Aviation Academy
UK
$26,000-27,000 (INR 21.71 lakh to INR 22.54 lakh)
University of New South Wales Aviation
Australia
$173,000 (INR 1.44 crores approx) - full three-year degree fee
*conversion as of July 2024
Eligibility Criteria
If you are wondering how to study at the best flying school in the world, we have got you covered. The foremost step is to check your eligibility for your preferred program. While the admission requirements vary across countries and training schools, below are some common requirements you must fulfill.
Minimum age of 17.
High school diploma or equivalent.
FAA medical certificate or equivalent physical examination for determining fitness and health levels.
Passport copy.
Proof of funds.
ACT/SAT scores, if needed by university.
IELTS/TOEFL scores, if required by institution.
Reasons to Study Aviation in USA
The United States of America (USA) is home to top aviation schools, which are also among the oldest in the world.
The country offers world-class trainers, instructors, faculty members, and training facilities.
Students get to learn with access to cutting-edge aircraft and the best equipment and other infrastructure.
Aviation Schools in the USA are globally accredited and adhere to the highest educational and training standards.
Most global airline companies consider U.S. degrees favorably while the domestic market itself is a fast-growing one, meaning innumerable job opportunities for trained pilots.
Studying in the USA ensures global exposure and proficiency over the English language for communication. It will also help aspirants benefit from working with retired airline veterans, industry bigwigs, and instructors while being able to network and carve out better opportunities for themselves.
There are various aviation degree programs available in the USA to become a pilot. Here is the list:
Bachelor of Aviation
Students pursuing this degree will have to study engineering, electronics, and flying aircraft. This degree can take 4-6 years to complete and will provide full commercial pilot certification upon completion.
Bachelor of Science in Aviation Technology
Under this program, students will have to learn about flight training, aircraft systems operation, and aircraft maintenance.
Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering
This degree doesn’t prepare a student to become a pilot directly but involves designing, building, functioning, and testing of flying machines. Even after earning this degree, students will have to undergo extensive training to become a pilot in the USA.
Bachelor of Aeronautical Science
This degree is for those students who want to work in aircraft maintenance, new airplane parts engineering, or even air traffic control. Students pursuing this degree will be taught to construct aircraft.
List of 10 Best Pilot Training Institutes in World in 2024
Deciding on the best pilot training institutes in the world involves considering various factors such as quality of training, fleet size, safety records, and alumni success.
Below is a table representing a selection of renowned pilot training institutes known globally for their excellence in aviation education. Please note the list is not exhaustive, and the rankings can vary based on different criteria.
Rank
Institute Name
Location
Highlights
1
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
United States
World-renowned for comprehensive aeronautical education.
2
Oxford Aviation Academy
United Kingdom
Offers integrated ATPL courses with state-of-the-art facilities.
3
CAE Oxford Aviation Academy
Various Locations
Global leader in aviation training with a wide network.
4
FlightSafety Academy
United States
Known for its rigorous safety and pilot training programs.
5
L3Harris Flight Academy
United States
Offers programs from private pilot certification to ATP.
6
Australian National Airline College
Australia
Provides training tailored to commercial airline standards.
7
Philippine Airlines Aviation School
Philippines
One of Asia's oldest and most prestigious flight schools.
8
National Flying Training Institute (NFTI)
India
A joint venture between CAE Inc. and the Airports Authority of India.
9
Royal New Zealand Air Force
New Zealand
Military and civilian pilot training with high standards.
10
Horizon Flight Academy
United Arab Emirates
Offers a range of programs including MPL with airline partnerships.
This table represents a diverse range of pilot training institutes from around the world, each contributing to the global aviation industry by producing skilled pilots equipped to meet future demands.
Prospective students are encouraged to research each institute thoroughly, considering their career goals, budget, and the specific advantages of each school to find the best fit for their pilot training journey.
Scholarships for International Students
Listed below are the top scholarships available for aviation programs across the best aviation schools in the world:
Scholarship Name
Benefits
CAE Entry Level Jet Scholarship
Scholarship is given to two students or recent graduates of the University Aviation Association.
It will provide additional industry-based training opportunities, such as initial training in an entry-level corporate jet, to the candidates.
Metallurgy and Materials International Achievement Scholarship
£1,500 tuition fee discount in at least the first year of your undergraduate degree
Metallurgy and Materials International Excellence Scholarship
£3,000 tuition fee discount or cash transfer during the first year of your undergraduate degree
Chancellor’s Scholarship
Up to 100% of tuition fee to 10 newly admitted undergraduate students.
Vice-chancellor's Scholarship
Up to 50% of tuition fee to students who applied for the chancellor’s scholarship but did not receive it. This is open to up to 100 students in an academic year.
AMT Maintenance Scholarships
One of several courses donated by 12 education and training providers and is given to current or aspiring business aviation maintenance technicians.
International Operators Scholarship
Educational or training costs up to $9,000 for people entering the business aviation industry or current aviation people looking to expand their career in international operations.
Joe and Paula Nowiczweski Endowed Fund for Missionary Aviation
$5,000 given to a mission aviation degree program student, either maintenance or flight.
The Mcdonough Working Flight Student Scholarship
$2,000 given to a bachelor’s student of the flight degree program.
Aviation Alumni Association Scholarship
$1,000 given to a student in an aviation degree program.
Job Roles in Aviation Industry
Here are some job roles that you can apply to after completing your course from the best pilot training institute in the world:
Job Roles
Annual Pay (USD)
Pilot
$249,495
Flight Attendant
$83,346
Flight Instructor
$159,773
Air Traffic Controller
$84,744
Airport Manager
$142,387
Ground Staff
$55878
Source: Glassdoor, July 2024
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world hosts a plethora of distinguished flying schools, each offering unique pathways to the skies for aspiring aviators.
From the historic airfields of the United States to the technologically advanced facilities in Europe and the diverse training environments of Australia and beyond, these institutions stand out for their comprehensive curriculum and state-of-the-art infrastructure, molding the next generation of pilots.
The best flying schools combine rigorous training programs with a focus on safety, innovation, and global aviation standards, preparing students not only to fly but to excel in the highly competitive and dynamic field of aviation.
For those dreaming of a career amongst the clouds, selecting the right school is a pivotal first step in a journey filled with challenges, learning, and ultimately, the unparalleled freedom of flight.
Switzerland pays $172,610 annually to its pilots, making it the country paying the highest salary. This is mainly due to the difficult terrain that the country has, which requires expert aviation skills to navigate.
Which exam is required for a pilot training course?
While all training institutions do not require students to pass an entrance exam for the course, there are different exams that they must clear during their pilot training course to obtain the pilot license. This includes the FAA (Federation Aviation Administration) private pilot test, the FAA airmen knowledge test, and practical tests.
What type of pilot licenses can I get through the training?
The different types of pilot licenses are student pilot licenses, private pilot licenses, commercial pilot licenses, and airline transport pilot licenses.
Which country has the best flying school?
The USA is one of the top countries for flight training. It is home to some of the world’s oldest and most reputed universities and training institutions. It is also globally acknowledged for its flight education curriculum.
In which country is pilot training the cheapest?
The Philippines is one of the cheapest nations globally for pilot training and getting a pilot’s license. Students can usually complete their courses for roughly INR 9-10 lakh in this country. It is followed by countries like Australia, Poland, and Nigeria.
Kanika has 5+ years of experience as a writer and content developer. She has written for a wide range of industry verticals, including hospitality, restaurants, non-profits, finance, IT, HR, technology, payroll, and education. She has worked as a creator for a few leading companies and has also helped brands grow through her creative writing.
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