LTF News Archives - Page 2 of 7

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Financing Your Flying: Gaining Your Commercial Pilot License

Posted on October 23, 2023October 23, 2023 by Kai

Obtaining your Commercial Pilot License (CPL) in Australia is one of the best pathways to a rewarding career in aviation. Undertaking flight training overseas can be a thrilling journey. It gives you the opportunity to meet new people, expand your network and fly over some truly stunning terrain. Getting your CPL can be costly, but plenty of options exist to help you achieve your dream. In this blog, we’ll examine the requirements, costs, and benefits of Learn To Fly’s Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot License) course.

CPL Training Overview

Learn To Fly’s CPL training program equips aspiring pilots with the skills and knowledge needed to embark on a career in commercial aviation. Here’s an overview of what the program includes:

Flight Hours

Over the course of a Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot License), you will complete 150.3 Flight Training hours. You’ll receive expert guidance and instruction from experienced flight instructors while you take the controls and gain valuable hands-on experience.

You will also need to complete 3.2 hours in our state-of-the-art flight simulators. Hone your skills in a controlled, simulated environment that will prepare you for real-world scenarios. Simulators allow you to practice specific emergency situations without danger. You can also use simulators to complete flight training when the weather doesn’t allow for flight.

Coursework and Theory

The course is aimed at students with little or no prior flight training experience. The integrated CASA Part 142 training syllabus will teach you key pilot skills. You’ll learn things like accurate and efficient flight planning, safe and accurate aircraft operation, decision-making, enhanced navigation techniques and rules for operating in complex airspace.

Costs of Studying in Australia

As of October 2023, Learn To Fly’s Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot License) program carries a tuition fee of AU$87,950. You will also need to consider the cost of living in Australia for the duration of your stay.

Overseas students studying in Australia need to obtain a student visa from the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Getting a student visa is a simple and streamlined process. To apply, you’ll need to pay an upfront fee and take a medical exam by an approved doctor. Once you’ve got your student visa, there are then cost of living considerations to remember.

You’ll have to account for rent, food, utilities and transport. Typically, students are found to spend between AU$350 and AU$700 per week living in Australia. This cost can vary widely, so it’s important to be prepared for living expenses when studying in Australia.

Is It Worth It?

Pursuing a Commercial Pilot License is an investment in your future. It’s important to consider the potential benefits and career opportunities it can unlock. With Learn To Fly’s training program, you’ll gain the necessary skills and meet an extensive network of aviation professionals. The connections you make can prove invaluable when seeking job placements and advancing your aviation career across the globe.

The Sky Is Calling

Obtaining a Commercial Pilot License in Australia is an exciting journey. It’s one that can open the door to a fulfilling career in aviation. Learn To Fly’s in-depth CPL training program provides aspiring pilots with the skills and knowledge to excel in the industry. While studying for a Diploma of Aviation in Australia can be expensive, your dream of becoming a commercial pilot is within reach. So, take the first step, spread your wings and soar toward a thrilling career in aviation with Learn To Fly.

Future of Air Travel: Predictions and Trends in the Aviation Industry

Posted on July 6, 2023July 13, 2023 by Kai

The future of air travel is changing big time! It’s fair to say that the aviation industry is forever changing, but the change is particularly rapid right now. We are seeing some of the most significant technological developments across energy and aircraft. This means it’s a time for pilots to be excited. These air travel developments have hugely positive implications. This is across private pilot licences in Australia, aviation courses in Australia, and air travel in general. Here we will discuss the future of air travel, including predictions and trends in the aviation industry, so you can learn about what’s expected in the future.

Air Transport Demand

Brace for impact, the air transport demand in Australia is growing! The transport industry is integral to society and connection in a more connected world than ever before. Aviation plays a major role in the transport industry, both for passenger transport, private transport, and cargo transportation.

As the world becomes increasingly connected and mobile, the demand for aviation is increasing with it. The most influential force on air transport demand is accessibility. Accessibility includes the availability of aviation transport and infrastructure and affordability, frequency, and comparative transport options.

We are currently seeing significant developments across the energy and fuel sector. This is largely driven by increasing fossil fuel costs and pressure to find environmentally friendly energy sources. As these technologies rapidly develop, the outcome is that there are increasingly accessible air transport options and accessibility.

So, what does this all mean? It means that the future of air travel – including predictions and trends in the aviation industry – surrounds demand. The indications are that the air transport demand is going to reach new record numbers increasingly.

Hydrogen-Powered Planes

Hydrogen as a fuel source can be burnt in a turbine engine or a piston engine. It can also be used as a fuel cell for electric propulsion. This means it has the potential for commercial and private pilot uses.

Hydrogen as a fuel source has a lot of appeal if we can get it right. Because hydrogen is readily available and the usage has zero emissions (fuel cell use), it is environmentally sustainable. This is particularly attractive in a world balancing fossil fuels and environmental impact.

Sustainable mobility in air transport is one of the most significant sets of goals for the international air transport industry. This has big implications for pilots in Australia and internationally. Pilots must maintain training, experience and currency in a quickly changing industry.

This isn’t a new thing, the TU-55 first flew with hydrogen as a fuel source in 1988! It was the first experimental aircraft using hydrogen (it used liquid natural gas later, too).

Futuristic Cabin Designs

When it comes to cabin designs, the most significant internal change revolves around comfort and automation. Instead of buttons, dials, and mechanical instruments, there is a constant shift towards digital-based touchscreens and instrumentation. As a species that craves entertainment, we enjoy having control over lighting and the environment. This also extends to our preference for automation, while still having the option for manual override.

These factors propel cabin designs to new heights of comfort and practicality. It makes sense considering the increasing demand for air transport and longer overall flight times, prompting us to seek additional comforts to enhance our travel experience.

On the exterior, aircraft cabins are transforming due to advancements in aerodynamic insights. More aircraft are being developed to cater to diverse markets and specific requirements. Older aircraft models are being replaced with more energy-efficient designs. However, this transition is a gradual process due to its associated costs.

For private pilots and flight training schools in Australia, these advancements offer modern options for aircraft designs. This enables us to travel faster, cover longer distances, and enjoy enhanced comfort—all while reducing our environmental impact.

Air Transport Industry in Australia

Private air travel is trending upward, with a growing appeal among current and aspiring private pilots. This trend is expected to continue as private pilot training becomes more accessible. However, domestic air travel in Australia is recovering from the pandemic in the latter half of 2023. Nevertheless, rising living costs pose a challenge to this recovery, and they also contribute to a slowdown in international air transport demand.

Moreover, there is a significant surge in aviation infrastructure in Australia, catering to the needs of Australian pilots and the growing domestic demand for private air travel. Various government bodies have recognized the potential and momentum of the aviation industry in Australia, leading them to make substantial investments in this sector.

There you have it!

That covers the Future of Air Travel: Predictions and Trends in the Aviation Industry! It’s an incredible time to start or continue your aviation training, as Australian pilots enjoy incredible opportunities. If you’re flying as a private pilot in Australia, or as a commercial pilot in Australia, have a chat with the team at Learn To Fly if you’d like to know more about current aviation trends.

As there are further development and opportunities in Australian aviation, Learn to Fly will be developing new courses and training material to ensure pilots have new and existing skills. Keep checking back for further developments!

Looking For More?

Our social media offers free flight training videos and much more – so, give us a follow at https://linktr.ee/learntoflymelbourne.

What Else Should I Know?

We’ve compiled a few useful posts that might help you out. Where ever you are on your aviation journey, the team at Learn To Fly Melbourne are here to help. We want you to pass your exams and have an excellent career, so please reach out if we can help support you through your course and studies!

Cathay Cadet Pilot Program – Questions & Answers
We received some fantastic questions during our recent webinar on applying for the Cathay Cadet Pilot Program in 2022. We weren’t able to answer them all live, but we have covered the majority of questions and answers here.

Learn To Fly Scholarship Recipient Dean Shing Starts at Cathay Pacific
Our scholarship recipient was Dean Shing, who was accepted into the Cathay Pacific cadetship program. He came to Melbourne to complete his flight training and fly solo, and we caught up with him to talk about the process, as well as his love for flying.

Recommended Pathways for Becoming an Airline Pilot for Overseas Students
There has never been a better time than right now to get into the aviation industry. In this blog, we discuss the pathways available to overseas students with a deep desire in becoming an airline pilot.

The Secret Weapon for 75 Successful Airline Pilot Interview Students
Discover the secret weapon to airline pilot interview success! Learn to Fly is working with Senior Captain Darren McPherson from ACS (Aviation Consulting Services) to provide Airline Interview Training, and together we have helped numerous candidates successfully pass their airline interviews over the past 2 years.

Airline Pilot Career Pathways
Are you serious about an airline pilot career? In this blog we discuss some of the airline pilot career pathways available to you.

Upcoming Learn To Fly Events

Posted on July 13, 2022July 13, 2022 by Kai

Learn To Fly enjoys being involved in the wider aviation community. Throughout the year we participate in or host a range of events. Check out the upcoming Learn To Fly events below:

Angel Flight Australia – Free Pilot Information Seminar

📅 Date: Friday July 22nd 2022
🕕 Time: Arrive 545pm for 6pm start
📍 Location: Learn To Fly, 22-24 Northern Ave Moorabbin Airport VIC 3192

Angel Flight is a charity that coordinates non-emergency flights to assist people living in rural areas of Australia in accessing specialist medical treatment that is often located a long distance away, and only reachable by air transport.

They operate Australia-wide with a growing network of pilots who volunteer their time, and are subsidised for a wide range of costs associated with the flights (like fuel and landing fees etc).

In this free seminar, you will hear from Marjorie Pagani (Angel Flight CEO/Pilot) and Alexandra Zollner (Angel Flight Deputy CEO) about the important service that Angel Flight provides, how it works for pilots, and how you can get involved.

Please book to confirm your attendance so that we can gauge numbers appropriately.

CLICK/TAP HERE TO REGISTER FOR YOUR FREE TICKET

Aviation/Aerospace Australia NGN Professional Online Career Seminar

📅 Date: Wednesday July 27th 2022
🕕 Time: 6pm
📍 Location: Online / Zoom

To get ahead professionally, you need to think ahead.

The A/AA NextGenNetwork (NGN), has brought together industry and government representatives to give you the head start, including our very own LTF Principal Executive Officer, Sarah Steele

Whether it be career planning, landing your first role, an internship position or a graduate program, our speakers will give you the tools, tips and insight you need to take off in the aviation, aerospace and space sector.

Industry Speakers:

Ruth “Rocket Woman” Harrison: Senior Project Recruiter at CAE Parc Aviation & Women in Aviation/Aerospace Australia (WA/AA) QLD Sub-Committee Member

Lee Turnley: Manufacturing Engineer at Boeing Aerostructures Australia & NextGenNetwork (NGN) Committee Member at Aviation/Aerospace Australia

Sarah Steele: Principal Executive Officer at Learn To Fly

CLICK/TAP HERE TO REGISTER YOUR FREE ATTENDANCE

Stay tuned for further Learn To Fly events!

If you would like to find out more about learning to fly, you can email our flight training specialists at [email protected]. You can also visit https://drift.me/learntofly/meeting to book a meeting and a tour of our Moorabbin Airport training base.

Getting a Night VFR Rating: What You Need to Know

Posted on September 9, 2021March 22, 2023 by Kai

Night flying is a great skill for a pilot to have in their arsenal. A Night VFR or Night Visual Flight Rules Rating allows you to fly your aircraft at night. You do however, need other VFR weather conditions to be present.

It gives you the freedom of not being limited by time when flying cross-country. You can also take passengers flying to see the beautiful city lights of Melbourne from the sky. It’s a sight not to be missed!

Not only is flying at night exciting and thrilling, but having this skill also generally makes you a better pilot. Here’s a quick look at getting a Night VFR Rating on your pilot licence and what you should expect:

Eligibility Criteria:

In order to successfully get a Night VFR rating, the pilot must have:

– A Private Pilot Licence at the minimum, but can also have a Commercial Pilot Licence or Air Transport Pilot Licence,

– At least 10 hours of night flight time training under a supervisor, either in an aircraft or in an approved flight simulator,

– At least 5 hours of dual cross-country night flight time training included in the above 10 hours,

– Successfully cleared the Night VFR flight test.

Why Get a Night VFR Rating

Melbourne winter days are short, with the winter solstice this year clocking just 9 hours and 53 minutes of daylight. Having a Night VFR Rating gives you the flexibility to make longer trips. This is especially handy during the short daylight hours in winter. You can start your flight before sunrise and end it late without having to cut your trip short before sunset. Furthermore, you could even end the day by taking in magnificent views of the city from the air.

Air traffic also tends to be lower in the nighttime, which means you will have a smoother, easier flight. And if you are flying on a night with a full moon, it will not be much different than flying in the day owing to all the light coming from the moon!

Finally, for pilots who aim to fly commercially, having a Night VFR rating and a significant amount of night command time is a necessity, as commercial pilots often need to fly at night. Many airlines looking for professional pilots require the pilot to have at least 100 hrs of flight time at night in order to even be considered for the position!

What to expect from Learn to Fly’s Night VFR Rating Course

Enrolment and Orientation

When signing up for our Night VFR Rating Course, you will get a Training Starter Kit. This will contain all relevant course materials. It will also contain detailed information on the processes of your course and access to shared online resources.

On the day of orientation, you will be introduced to your instructor. They will take you around the airport, airspace and our facilities. You will also get to learn about the processes Learn to Fly follows.

Night VFR Ground School

Once you have successfully settled in, the first part of the course will include some ground training and instructions. These are typically conducted in the form of theory classes where you will learn of the fundamental concepts of a Night VFR Rating. You will also learn what to expect during the actual night circuit training.

Night VFR Flight Training

In this step of the course, you will learn different landing techniques, approaches and what to do in emergency situations. You will also familiarise yourself with common navigational aids. These include NDB (non-directional beacon) and VOR (Very high-frequency omnidirectional range) as well as the use of pilot activated light (PAL) and other runway lighting equipment.

Night Solo Training

Once you have successfully mastered the last step, your instructor will determine if you are ready for your first solo night flight. The first solo flights will involve circuit flying. Once these have been mastered, you will then move on to navigation training. This form of training makes you a more independent pilot, as it involves planning and executing a number of navigational flights at night, helping you prepare for the next and final step.

Night VFR Flight Test

Approximately 3 hours in duration, the Night VFR Flight Test is conducted in a CASA approved aircraft under the supervision of a CASA approved instructor. This test will include take-off and landing as well as navigation skill assessment and the correct use of navigational aids. Finally, the test will also assess some nighttime emergency procedures and how prepared you are to handle them. Once you successfully pass this test, you then get your Night VFR Rating. Congratulations!

Why Choose Learn to Fly

At Learn to Fly, all of our flight training courses, including the Night VFR Rating course, involve simulation training. This allows students to become familiar with the controls and behaviour patterns, procedures and systems of the aircraft they choose whilst still on the ground. We have a range of simulators available. This includes full cockpit synthetic trainers like the Alsim AL42, replicating the cockpit of our Diamond DA42 twin-engine aircraft.

Learn To Fly offers an innovative training model, so you can continue learning online even while you are at home. We have state-of-the-art facilities at our Moorabbin Airport base in Melbourne, experienced instructors, and a range of aircraft to choose from.

Night-VFR-Rating-City-Lights — Being able to see the city lights at night from above is just one benefit of a Night VFR Rating.

To find out about our Night VFR Rating course, email [email protected]. You can also visit https://drift.me/learntofly/meeting to book a meeting and school tour. For more great flying tips and the latest flying videos, click below and subscribe to our YouTube channel!

Why Should You Do Your Flight Training With Learn To Fly Melbourne?

Posted on August 8, 2021June 26, 2024 by Kai

Welcome to Learn To Fly Flight Training. Our goal is to make your pilot journey as simple as possible, so you focus on the enjoyment of flying. We train professional pilots, and pilots who just want to fly recreationally. We have a huge range of courses available, from beginner programs all the way through to obtaining your Commercial Pilot Licence. In addition to this, we have advanced ratings and endorsements, and even airline interview preparation.

But there are plenty of flight schools out there. So, why should you choose Learn To Fly for your flight training?

Innovative Training with CASA Part 142 Accreditation

We are constantly innovating our Learn To Fly flight training model to provide students with flexibility, and more opportunities to learn. Embracing modern technology, we utilise modern flight simulation, and the theory components of many of our courses can now be studied online. Our Moorabbin Airport training base facilities are state-of-the-art, enhancing your learning experience.

In addition to this, our modern online portal allows students to track their course progress and access essential course materials and content from wherever they are, including 360 degree virtual cockpit environments.

As a CASA Part 142 accredited flying school, we are able to offer integrated training syllabus. This means that you can study your theory and practical flight training concurrently. Integrated training saves you time and allows you to reach your flying goals faster.

Our training model is goal focused, whether you want to fly professionally or for fun. If you are hoping to work as a pilot, our aviation training and career specialists can customise your training to suit your career goals.

Emphasis on Safety

At Learn To Fly Melbourne, safety is and always will be our number one priority. A cornerstone of our operation is to ensure that we maintain a positive and transparent safety culture.

A part of the safety culture at LTF is the acknowledgement that flight training does involve risk. It is therefore vital that students and instructors alike are well educated about these risks, and the processes involved in risk minimisation. Our support team includes dedicated Safety Managers that oversee all aspects of our operation.

This focus on safety has been present since the school’s founding, and its importance only grows as we continue to expand.

Learn-To-Fly-Flight-Training-Aircraft-Fleet — Our modern and well maintained aircraft fleet caters for a wide range of flight training requirements.

Modern Aircraft Fleet and Flight Simulators

Learn To Fly’s aircraft fleet provides students with a range of options for most of our flight training courses. We are the only flight school in the state of Victoria offering training in modern glass cockpit Diamond aircraft, and our fleet includes single engine Diamond DA40s as well as twin-engine Diamond DA42s.

The sporty Sling 2 is a fantastic beginner aircraft, and we operate the largest fleet of these in Australia. We also offer more traditional aircraft with analogue avionics like the classic Cessna 172 and Piper Seminole. In addition to this, we have an A22LS Foxbat for RA-Aus programs, and a Super Decathlon for aerobatics, spinning and tailwheel training.

All of our aircraft are stringently maintained in line with our safety policies. We have our very own maintenance hangar located next to our main training facility.

We have a range of simulator options, and integrate flight simulation into our innovative training model. Alongside our state-of-the-art Alsim AL42 (Diamond DA42) and TRC 472 (Cessna 172) full cockpit synthetic trainers, we have a full motion Xplane simulator with aircraft controls and Garmin avionics.

Professional Experienced Instructors

The best instructors bring out the best in you. Our Learn To Fly flight training team is highly experienced, with a diverse range of aviation backgrounds from multiple countries. We have Grade 1, 2 and 3 instructors, as well as instructors certified to teach a huge range of additional ratings, endorsements and advanced training endorsements. In addition to this our team includes in-house Flight Examiners. This means that you can complete many of your flight tests on-site.

Experience has shown us that student pilots find the process of completing their training and entering the aviation industry difficult. Our support staff includes aviation career specialists who can guide you on your pilot pathway beyond graduating from your training, and even assist with airline applications.

Learn-To-Fly-Flight-Training-Instructors — The best flight instructors bring out the best in you.

Airline Interview Specialists

Want to know the secret weapon for success in airline interviews? It’s us. We have a range of programs specifically developed to help you not only prepare for airline interviews, but to then pass them with flying colours.

Airline Check and Training Captain Darren McPherson from ACS Aviation Consulting Services is our aviation career specialist. His airline interview preparation programs are highly successful, helping hundreds of pilots to be accepted into wide range of airlines around the world. Our success stories have joined their new airlines at Cadet level as well as First and Second Officer direct entry roles.

International Flying School

Learn To Fly is an international flight school that offers flight training in Melbourne, Singapore, Hong Kong and Shanghai. Our innovative training model means that we are able to offer distance learning options on a broad range of courses. This makes our reach truly global.

Our home training base is located Melbourne’s Moorabbin Airport, one of Australia’s busiest airports with >250,000 aircraft movements per year. This makes it an excellent place to learn. Our student pilots are able to master a greater scope of experience than at smaller aerodromes.

In addition, we have partnered with airlines based in a number of countries. This offers global career options to our students and graduates.

To find out more about Learn To Fly Flight Training, email [email protected]. You can also visit https://drift.me/learntofly/meeting to book a meeting and school tour. Click below to subscribe to our YouTube channel for regularly updated flying lessons and flight training content.

Bachelor of Aviation – Learn To Fly Launches Articulation Pathway with Griffith University

Posted on July 16, 2021October 19, 2021 by Kai

Learn To Fly is proud to announce a new articulation pathway with Griffith University for students wanting to complete a Bachelor of Aviation program.

Australia’s Most Recognised Aviation Program

Griffith University is one of Australia’s most prestigious universities and offers Australia’s largest and most recognised aviation teaching program. For over 25 years, Griffith has worked closely with aviation industry experts to develop programs that meet the demanding requirements of current and future pilots. They are known worldwide for providing exceptionally well trained and high-quality commercial pilot graduates.

With strong industry ties as well as a large presence in aviation research, the Griffith University Bachelor of Aviation program is the perfect stepping-stone to your career as a pilot.

About the Bachelor of Aviation Course

A Bachelor of Aviation qualification is the perfect preparation for becoming a professional pilot. Your comprehensive training includes theory in a range of subjects as well as simulation training.

Choosing this pathway for your aviation training can mean that you are able to be ready to start working professionally in a wider range of aviation jobs sooner.

The Ideal Pathway to Becoming a Professional Pilot

Completing the AVI50219 Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence – Aeroplane) and AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating – Aeroplane) courses with Learn To Fly Melbourne allows you to apply for the Griffith University Bachelor of Aviation program via Advanced Standing (with 80 credit points). The diploma courses can be completed in 18 months at Learn To Fly’s Melbourne training base at Moorabbin Airport.

Griffith’s Bachelor of Aviation program requires a total of 240 credit points for completion. This takes most full-time articulation students another 18 months to complete, based on 15-20 hours per week of scheduled classes. What this means is that you could potentially complete 3 highly regarded aviation qualifications (Commercial Pilot Licence, Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating and Bachelor of Aviation) within just 3 years.

When you graduate from this training pathway you will be ready to start your career as a pilot. In addition, these 3 qualifications could mean that there are many more job opportunities available to you.

Extend Your Career Advantage Even Further With Learn To Fly

To be able to participate in formation flying, you’ll need a Formation Flying Endorsement. The

Learn To Fly offers a wide range of additional flying courses. You can complete these courses concurrently whilst studying for either the Diploma courses or the Bachelor of Aviation program. These courses can improve your standing as an applicant to potential employers even further. They will also give you the training to be able to consider a wider range of commercial pilot roles post-graduation.

It’s no secret that aviation employers industry-wide hold applicants with a Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) in high regard. Our Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) course is seen as one of the most comprehensive flight instructor courses in Melbourne.

If you are considering a career as an airline pilot, then you should definitely consider our Airline Interview Preparation courses. Facilitated by international Airline Check and Training Captain and aviation career specialist Darren McPherson from ACS Aviation Consulting Services, these courses have helped nearly 200 pilots to achieve success in their applications to a range of renowned airlines around the world.

To register your interest in the Bachelor of Aviation articulation pathway, email [email protected] or visit https://drift.me/learntofly/meeting to book a meeting and school tour.

Take Off With an AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation Course

Posted on June 30, 2021October 19, 2021 by Kai

If you are wanting to become an airline pilot, or thinking about one of the many amazing pilot career options, the AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation course is the comprehensive training and preparation that you need.

Learning to fly is as complicated as learning to drive. When a person is learning to drive, the first thing they feel is fear—and excitement. When they begin, they don’t know the right way to turn around a corner, or how to parallel park. But with time, practice and the right instructor, they will pass the dreaded driving test and hit the road. What once seemed so foreign now seems like second nature, and turning and parallel parking both become muscle memory. Learning to fly is much the same. With the right training and practice, becoming a pilot becomes accessible for anyone! Recreational flying and flying commercially however are two very different things and require different levels of expertise. For example, you may be responsible for the safety of hundreds of passengers on a plane as a commercial pilot.

Why choose Learn to Fly Melbourne for your AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation

Transparency & Affordability

Stay away from schools that ask you to pay for the whole course upfront without telling you exactly what they’re charging you for, without a thorough breakdown. Make sure they mention additional ancillary you may have to pay (like landing fees at other airports, for example). The flight school you choose should tell you the cost per hour for each aircraft. They should also give you the cost for theory sessions, as well as exams. They should be able to advise you on how much time it usually takes a student to master the skills taught in the course.

At Learn to Fly we want everybody to have the opportunity to learn to fly, without affordability being a barrier. We believe in total transparency, which is why we give you a full payment schedule when you’re enrolling with us. This breaks down the cost of every single component of the course. It includes pay when you apply items, non-flying components, pay as you fly items, as well as any additional requirements you may need to pay for.

About Learn To Fly

We are the only Victorian flight school offering flight training in Diamond aircraft. We also have the largest training fleet of Sling 2 aircraft in Australia. Our entire fleet includes Sling 2s, Diamond DA40s, Diamond DA42s, Cessna 172s, a Piper Seminole, a Foxbat and a Super Decathlon. A wide range of aircraft gives students the opportunity to fly older aircraft with analogue avionics or modern aircraft with glass cockpit features like the Garmin G1000.

Learn To Fly leads the way in simulation training, with 3 full cockpit synthetic trainers as well as an immersive 3-screen Xplane sim with responsive aircraft throttle and rudder controls plus Garmin instrumentation. We pride ourselves on state-of-the-art facilities and training options. Our AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation students have access to fully digitised classrooms, and an industry-leading online portal offering fully remote online training and 360 degree virtual cockpit procedural training.

Highly Experienced Instructors

Our highly experienced instructor team boasts a diverse range of aviation backgrounds. These include specialised niche areas, making them experts in specific aspects of flying. Our instructors love giving backing to the students by imparting their knowledge and training to the next generation of pilots. Some of our Grade 1 instructors have well over 10,000 hours of professional flying experience. We have close ties to aviation career specialists who provide invaluable guidance on entering the industry after completion of training.

Get your AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation from Learn to Fly Melbourne and get started on your career in the skies today!

Diploma-of-Aviation-Student — Diploma of Aviation Student with a DA40 aircraft at Learn To Fly

To register your interest in our Diploma of Aviation courses, email [email protected] or visit https://drift.me/learntofly/meeting to book a meeting and school tour.

Pilot Job Guarantee Program: Are You Ready For Take-off?

Posted on April 13, 2021August 24, 2021 by Kai

The Learn To Fly Pilot Job Guarantee Program is your pathway to the runway, clearing your aviation career for take-off. Successful applicants are guaranteed a Flight Instructor role and at least 300 flying hours. This means that you’ll be ready to step into a career as a commercial pilot.

But how does the LTF Pilot Job Guarantee Program work, and are you eligible to apply? We will answer those questions and more in this blog. We will also chat to Chun Ki (Peter) Cheung, our Pilot Job Guarantee Program graduate, to learn about his story and hear how he is going in his Flight Instructor role.

About the Learn To Fly Pilot Job Guarantee Program

Eligibility: To be eligible for the Pilot Job Guarantee you must be between 18 and 35 years old and have little to no previous flying experience. You will also need to meet the English proficiency and CASA medical requirements.

Process: Accepted candidates will progress through CPL training (which includes RPL and PPL as well). You will then complete a Flight Instructor Rating (FIR). You will then be able to start work as a Flight Instructor at Learn To Fly.

Your Pilot Career: Whilst we guarantee that you will at least pass 300 flying hours whilst working as a Flight Instructor at LTF, it doesn’t end there. There are many options to widen your career choices by completing a range of ratings and endorsements as you go. You could choose to upgrade your instructor status. Or you could look at some of our Airline Interview Preparation courses and start getting ready for airline applications.

Click here for more detailed information on the Pilot Job Guarantee Program, including full eligibility requirements and a full process overview.

Why Apply for the Learn To Fly Pilot Job Guarantee Program?

With the recent global COVID19 pandemic, the job landscape for pilots especially has become far more difficult to navigate. The industry will bounce back, but when will that be? The requirement for flight training will rapidly expand in the coming years. However, this still doesn’t guarantee everybody a job as a Flight Instructor when they finish their training.

The Learn To Fly Pilot Job Guarantee Program allows you to bypass that crucial first worry of wondering whether you can get a job when you finish CPL training. As you grow your skills, knowledge and flight hours as a Flight Instructor while working with LTF, you will find yourself in greater demand as a commercial pilot.

Of course, training and working with us means that you will also have access to our state-of-the-art facilities as well as our comprehensive and modern aircraft fleet, and our team of highly experienced Flight Instructors. This gives you the best start to your career possible!

Meet Our Pilot Job Guarantee Program Graduate: Chun Ki (Peter) Cheung, Age 20

Why did you want to become a pilot?

I always captivated and fascinated by the sky. Why should we be limited to the ground when there is so much more to explore in the sky? I couldn’t stop thinking about it, and one day I told myself that flying is what I want to do!

Tell us about your pilot journey:

Originally from Hong Kong, I went to Melbourne Australia straight after I graduated from high school when I was 18. I was offered a university degree after I finished school, but my real dream was to become a pilot! There is a lack of training facilities in Hong Kong, so I decided I would learn in Melbourne. I booked accommodation and a flight, and I just went! It was a bit scary to just do it. But fear doesn’t stand a chance if you have a huge passion and a dream to chase.

I was accepted into the LTF Pilot Job Guarantee Program, and started my flight training with LTF in July 2018 in a Sling 2 aircraft. I flew my first solo, RPL and PPL in a Sling 2, moving to the Diamond DA40 aircraft to complete my CPL and FIR. My Multi-Engine Class Rating was completed in a Piper Seminole, and my MECIR in a Diamond DA42.

How have you found moving from student to Flight Instructor?

I am so excited to move from being a student at LTF to being able to teach the next student pilots. Like many pilots my dream is eventually to work for an airline. However, I am enjoying every step that I am going through to get there. At the moment, I am focused on how to be a great Flight Instructor, like those who taught me at LTF!

Wherever my career takes me, starting with the Learn To Fly Pilot Job Guarantee Program was perfect. If you have a dream to fly, you should apply. An 18-year-old with no flying experience can move to a new country and do all the above, so why not you too?!

To register your interest in the Learn To Fly Pilot Job Guarantee Program, email [email protected] or visit https://drift.me/learntofly/meeting to book a meeting and school tour.

Should I Start My Pilot Training During COVID?

Posted on November 4, 2020October 19, 2021 by Kai

The current pandemic has had an enormous negative impact on the aviation industry, so should you start your pilot training during COVID?

It’s obviously a fairly tough time for current pilots, with huge disruptions to domestic and international travel. Major carriers like Qantas, Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific have had to stand down thousands of employees. Sadly this has included even experienced airline pilots. Many people may think that starting pilot training now is risky, but we think the future is bright. Read on to find out why!

So if the aviation industry is struggling, why is it a great time to start your pilot training?

Firstly, becoming a pilot doesn’t happen instantly. It usually takes 15 to 18 months to be able to complete your pilot training to achieve your Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). But that is just the initial training. If you are looking to become an airline pilot, you may need to have up to 1,500 hours of flying experience before you apply.

We anticipate that airlines will most likely start recruiting again in 3 to 4 years. Let’s break that down a little further to put it in some perspective:

First, let’s start with the 15-18 months CPL pilot training.

Once you obtain your CPL, most pilots will look for work (such as flight instructor) in the General Aviation Industry to gain experience and build hours. Let’s assume that you are able to work/fly 500-600 hours per year. To reach 1,500 hours might take you 3 years in itself.

We don’t yet know exactly what minimum hourly requirements airlines will have for direct entry positions when the industry peaks again. But whatever that minimum requirement is, starting your pilot training now during COVID gives you the best chance to be ready!

Why do we think that the industry will bounce back and that airlines will start recruiting again in 3-4 years?

There are a number of factors that indicate to us that the aviation industry will bounce back strong in the post-COVID world. In Australia, regional and domestic holiday hotspots are booking out. Those who are able to travel are travelling in high numbers. With higher vaccination rates, lockdowns will become a thing of the past. As more borders open, people will look to travel further abroad.

In China, reports indicate that the domestic aviation market has actually already recovered to surpass traffic numbers from before the pandemic struck. This will only continue on an upward trajectory. While international air travel may take longer to recover, demand for domestic flights is likely to bounce back very quickly in many places.

Another factor to consider is the retirement of older pilots. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has remained consistent with their predictions of increased retirements over the next 5 to 15 years. It’s possible that the pandemic may actually accelerate these figures, with a number of pilots stood down deciding not to return to the industry.

But what about finding work straight after finishing pilot training during COVID?

Looking outside the airline industry, we are also confident that there will be many opportunities for pilots in General Aviation. Many students have had to put their pilot training on hold during COVID, but we are starting to see more enquiries from potential student pilots.

What this indicates is that the demand for Flight Instructors will remain strong. It’s likely to get even stronger as student numbers continue to build.

In Australia especially, it’s likely that there will be a boom in local tourism. This means that charter operations will see increased demand, and require pilots. Becoming a charter pilot is a great way to build hours after pilot training. It can also be an exciting career in itself.

How can I start pilot training during COVID?

During COVID we been hard at work to build an extensive online training platform that allows students to access high quality training even if they are unable to physically attend our training base.

Our online student portal has full theory courses available for RPL, PPL, CPL and IREX. These courses are taught by an experience instructor and can be accessed from anywhere in the world. The portal allows students to complete mock practice exams online as well.

We are the first flight school in Australia to offer the fantastic V360E platform. This allows students to train aircraft procedures in a full 360 degree virtual cockpit environment.

In addition to this, we are regularly adding new content to our YouTube channel, We have RPL/PPL flying lessons, aircraft pre-flight check videos, and more. Click the button below to subscribe!

To find out more about pilot training during COVID or to register your interest please email [email protected]/en. You can also go to https://drift.me/learntofly/meeting to book a meeting and school tour.

Flight Instructor Rating – A Flying Start To Your Pilot Career

Posted on October 6, 2020October 19, 2021 by Kai

After completing your Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), you are ready to start your career as a pilot. Whilst there are a range of exciting pathways that await you, the best way to give your pilot career a flying start is by completing a Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) course. In this blog we will talk about the Flight Instructor Rating course itself, and why it is such a great way to give your pilot career the flying start it needs.

What Is A Flight Instructor Rating?

The Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) course teaches you all the necessary skills to conduct flight training and develop the next generation of future pilots. Our course includes 35 hours of flight training as well as comprehensive ground briefing training so that you will be able to effectively instruct in both practical and theoretical settings.

The syllabus includes:

1. PMI Theory

Principle and Methods of Instruction (PMI) is an important part of the syllabus, as it teaches you how to teach. You’ll build your confidence as both a person and a pilot, learning how to effectively deliver training in the classroom and in the air to range of personality types, and to students with different learning profiles. It also includes a mandatory CASA PMI exam.

2. Flight Instructor Rating Ground Theory

Ground theory involves conducting long briefs, pre-flight briefings, formulating lesson plans and using training aids (like multimedia/PowerPoint) to conduct interesting and effective lessons based on real flight training syllabus and utilising the techniques learnt during PMI. Students receive detailed feedback from classmates and highly experienced flight instructors throughout.

3. Flight Instructor Rating Practical Flight Training

During practical flight training students will conduct 35 hours of dual flight instructor training that includes a highly experienced instructor role playing as your student. You need to demonstrate that you are able to analyse student responses, provide appropriate feedback and determine when to take corrective measures, as well as conducting pre-flight briefings and post-flight debriefings.

4. Aerobatics/Spinning Endorsement & Optional Qualifications

The LTF course includes aerobatics and spinning endorsement manoeuvre training in an aerobatics-rated aircraft. You can also opt to include additional training endorsements like Multi-Engine, Instrument rating, and/or Night VFR.

Flight Instructors at Learn To Fly — Improve your pilot knowledge and skills with a Flight Instructor Rating

How Can The Flight Instructor Rating Kickstart Your Career?

Obtaining a Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) is a rewarding and exciting challenge for any pilot. The skills you learn will not only make you an effective flight trainer, but a better pilot in general. On top of that, a FIR can really open up your pilot career opportunities, and not just in flight training. Here’s how:

1. Get Paid To Build Flight Hours

Many popular pilot career options require that have a minimum number of flight hours under your belt. This includes airlines, private and commercial charter work and air ambulance roles to name a few. Becoming a Flight Instructor is one of the easiest and quickest ways to build your flight hours in preparation for the next step in your career. And the best part about it? You actually get paid to do it!

2. More Job Opportunities

A Grade 3 Flight Instructor role is an easy role for you to step into straight away after your training. Job availability is also generally higher than many other pilot jobs. We have a number of LTF instructors who completed our Flight Instructor Rating course, then joined our flight training team. Flight Instructor work is also a highly desirable asset to have on your resume when you are looking at the next step in your career – airlines in particular will look for it.

3. Professional Development

While working as a Flight Instructor you will have varied training experiences. You can also further expand your qualification and skillset by completing additional ratings, endorsements, and training endorsements. On top of that, you can progress yourself as a trainer by moving up to Grade 2, Grade 1 and even Flight Examiner level.

4. More Job Security

With the 2020 COVID19 pandemic, aviation was thrown into chaos. During this time, Flight Instructors saw far greater job security than other pilot roles. If you have a Flight Instructor Rating but have moved on in your career to other things, there is nothing stopping you from coming back to flight training if you need to. We saw many experienced pilots (including airline pilots) stepping back into instructor roles during the pandemic.

Can Flight Instructing Be A Career?

1. Grade 1 & Grade 2 Flight Instructor

You will start as a Grade 3 instructor after completing your Flight Instructor Rating, but you can progress your career by moving on to Grade 2 and then Grade 1 status respectively. As you progress through each grade you can take on more roles and responsibilities, which also expands the options available to build flying hours.

2. Additional Training Endorsements

While working as a Flight Instructor, you have the opportunity to undertake a range of training endorsements, allowing you to teach students in more varied flight activities including Night VFR, Multi-Engine, Instrument Rating, Aerobatics & Spinning and Design Features. This even further expands the ways in which you can build hours.

3. Grade 1 & Grade 2 Training Endorsements

Grade 1 and Grade 2 Training Endorsements offer you even more flexibility in your role as a Flight Instructor, by allowing you to teach other flight instructors at higher levels. They also allow you to take on more supervisory roles within a flight school.

4. Flight Examiner

Once you have been a Grade 1 Flight Instructor for a year and meet certain other CASA requirements, you can apply to become a Flight Examiner. Being a Flight Examiner means that you can conduct final licence flight tests for student pilots. This increases your earning capacity and gives you another avenue to diversify in your flight training career.

Female-Flight-Instructors — Becoming a Flight Instructor opens up a wide range of aviation career options

To register your interest in a Flight Instructor Rating with Learn To Fly, email [email protected] or visit https://drift.me/learntofly/meeting to book a meeting and school tour.