Studying at the best flying schools in the world is a dream for many who aspire to become pilots. Commercial pilots need a bachelor’s degree at least, while those piloting smaller aircraft or single-engine aircraft do not always need higher educational qualifications.
Pilots are highly in demand owing to the stupendous growth of the aviation sector globally and average salaries stand at $105,720 worldwide for pilots, as per reports. This works out to roughly INR 79.29 lakh per year. Here are some options that students looking for the best pilot training institutes in the world can consider.
Leading global aviation college, with illustrious alumni including Neil Armstrong. It is known as Cradle of Astronauts
University of North Dakota
$8,447-20,047 (INR 6.34 lakh to INR 15.03 lakh) (average)
Undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs along with Ph.D. courses. Close to 900 students are enrolled in the flight program.
Ohio State University Aviation College
$4,223-10,023 (INR 3.16 lakh to INR 7.52 lakh) (average)
Both graduate and undergraduate programs are available with diverse aeronautical programs.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University College of Aviation
$48,992-50,570 (INR 36.74 lakh to INR 37.92 lakh) (average)
Three campuses with one of the oldest aviation programs along with courses like aeronautical and aerospace engineering, and more.
Western Michigan University Aviation College
$10-24,000 (INR 7.5 lakh to INR 18 lakh) (average)
Offers programs like aviation flight science, management, and maintenance.
San Jose State University College of Aviation
$270 per unit (INR 21,000 approx) (average)
Offers bachelor’s programs with varied specializations including professional flying.
Oxford Aviation Academy
$26-27,000 (INR 19.5 lakh to INR 20.25 lakh) (average)
Students can learn to fly fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters. There are campuses across England, Europe, the United States of America, Australia, and Asia.
University of New South Wales Aviation
$9120 (INR 6.84 lakh) (first year) for bachelor’s program
Offers flight training along with other programs like airline economics, aviation laws, flight operations, airline marketing, management, etc.
*fees are approximate figures and subject to change
Eligibility Criteria
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 some universities.
IELTS/TOEFL scores if required by some institutions.
Reasons to Study Aviation in the 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.
A majority of airline companies consider U.S. degrees favourably 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. 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 Best Pilot Training Institutes in the World 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 globally, known 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 the demands of the future. 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.
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 not just for their comprehensive curriculum and state-of-the-art aircraft but also for their commitment to 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.
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. Australia is also comparatively cheaper in this regard along with 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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