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British Airways and Skyborne Launch Applications for the 2025 Speedbird Pilot Academy

Gloucestershire, UK – British Airways and Skyborne Airline Academy have announced the opening of applications for the 2025 Speedbird Pilot Academy.  

The multi-million-pound training initiative, launched in 2023, offers aspiring pilots of all backgrounds a fully-funded path to the flight deck with British Airways. Successful candidates will undergo a joint selection process with BA and Skyborne, before training at the academy’s premier facilities in the UK and the United States.  

Upon completion of the UK CAA Integrated ATPL course, graduates will secure positions as First Officers with BA, marking the start of a remarkable career with the UK flag carrier. 

Lee Woodward, CEO, Skyborne, says: “As BA’s official UK partner, Skyborne is proud to lead the industry in removing financial barriers to entry. As a beneficiary of a funded programme myself, it is incredibly rewarding to offer another year of fully-funded flight training with Speedbird. BA’s continued investment is testament to our shared commitment in making pilot training accessible for all.” 

Lucy Silvester, pilot recruitment manager, British Airways, says: “Speedbird Pilot Academy really is an opportunity to level the playing field and dream big with some of the best flight training academies in the industry. To date, the initiative has been a huge success and we’re excited to continue to work with Skyborne to welcome the next group of talented individuals to a British Airways’ flight deck.”  

The scheme saw more than 20,000 applicants in its first year. Among them was Josh Bates, who is currently completing his single-engine phase of flight training with Skyborne in Vero Beach, Florida.

Josh Bates adds: “The Speedbird Pilot Academy has been a once in a lifetime opportunity. Skyborne’s expertise, flexibility, and world-class facilities have made my hopes of becoming a pilot a reality. With job security upon graduation, lifelong friends and invaluable lessons, I’m incredibly grateful to British Airways and Skyborne for the chance to fulfil my goal in a supportive and structured environment. Working so closely with the people at the heart of Skyborne truly helps maximise my potential and exceed my own expectations.”

Applicants must be aged between 18-55, with six GCSEs at grade A-C or 5-9, including Maths, English and Science, or an equivalent qualification. The application period for the Speedbird Pilot Academy will remain open for a minimum of one week.

About Skyborne
Skyborne Airline Academy is a premier airline training academy based at Vero Beach, Florida, United States, and Gloucestershire Airport in the United Kingdom. Established by industry experts, Skyborne brings a fresh approach to airline pilot training. 

Founders Tom Misner (chairman) and Lee Woodward (CEO) have unsurpassed experience in commercial aviation, education and training. Their vision has created a training environment where the highest standard of teaching, safety and relevant airline-style training is maintained, and interactive learning is encouraged. 

Using a combination of tried and tested methods and the latest technology to assess competence, suitability, aptitude and resilience, Skyborne recruits the very best candidates to minimise additional training, reduce failure rates and provide airlines with better pilots and cabin crew. 

Skyborne is proud to hold close relationships with the world’s leading airlines, offering opportunities for trainees as part of British Airways’ Speedbird Pilot Academy, the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program, the Propel Flight Academy by Delta and the SkyWest Professional Pilot Pathway. Skyborne is also the only academy to support DHL Air (UK) with a fully funded Integrated ATPL training initiative for its employees.

Source: Skyborne
Photo Credit: Skyborne

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US Flight Training Group, Nationwide Aviation, Modernizes Fleet with $1 Million Investment in Advanced Avionics Systems

Fort Worth, Texas, USA – Nationwide Aviation, a leading flight training group in the Dallas Fort Worth and Nashville area, is proud to announce the completion of a significant modernization project involving its fleet of 25 aircraft. With an investment of approximately $1 million, the flight school has upgraded its avionics systems to feature the latest technology, offering students and aspiring pilots an unparalleled training experience.

In an era where acquiring new aircraft can involve long wait times and skyrocketing costs, Nationwide Aviation has taken proactive steps to ensure its fleet remains competitive and meets the needs of its students. The newly installed Garmin touch screen avionics systems enhance safety, improve navigation, and provide pilots with the tools they need to excel in their aviation careers.

“Investing in our fleet allows us to provide our students with the same advanced technology found in brand-new production aircraft,” said Trevor Hall, Owner of Nationwide Aviation. “We are committed to delivering the highest quality training experience without passing on costs to our customers. Our students can now train on modern, state-of-the-art equipment at the same rental prices as other area schools that are still using outdated aircraft.”

The modernization initiative not only elevates the standard of training for students but also aims to bolster the aviation workforce in the Dallas Fort Worth and Nashville area. By providing access to the latest technology, Nationwide Aviation is empowering the next generation of pilots to reach their goals and excel in their aviation careers.

This investment exemplifies Nationwide Aviation’s dedication to fostering a supportive and innovative learning environment. Students can take advantage of enhanced training capabilities while enjoying the affordability that has always been a hallmark of the school.

Source: Nationwide Aviation
Photo Credit: Nationwide Aviation

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US Flight Training Group ATP Flight School’s Chief Flight Instructor Alex Mirabile Honored as Flight Instructor of the Year

Mesa, Arizona, USA – ATP Flight School is proud to recognize Chief Flight Instructor Alex Mirabile for being named Flight Instructor of the Year by the FAA Flight Standards District Office of Scottsdale. The award, presented at the Arizona Aviation Safety Advisory Group’s 51st Annual Banquet, honors Mirabile’s outstanding contributions to aviation safety, leadership in flight training, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of professional pilots.

Since joining ATP in 2014, Mirabile has been actively shaping general aviation through his ongoing efforts to enhance aviation safety and awareness. As an FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) representative, he has promoted safety best practices and led initiatives to improve pilot education. Through his involvement in the Arizona Flight Training Workgroup (AFTW) and Arizona Aviation Safety Advisory Group (ASAG), Mirabile has played a consequential role in refining training methodologies and standardizing operational procedures, ensuring that best practices are effectively implemented and sustained across the broader aviation community.

“Alex Mirabile is a highly respected member of ATP’s leadership team and consistently exemplifies ATP’s core values of safety, professionalism, and integrity,” said Josh Klein, Vice President of Quality Assurance at ATP Flight School. “His passion for aviation, coupled with his dedication to student success, make him an invaluable asset and a truly deserving candidate for the Flight Instructor of the Year award.”

Mirabile’s recognition as Flight Instructor of the Year demonstrates the shared commitment ATP instructors have toward promoting safety and a culture of professionalism. His positive influence on the aviation community reflects the dedication and expertise required to uphold the highest standards in flight training and safety.

For more information about ATP Flight School and its training programs, visit ATPFlightSchool.com.

About ATP Flight School 
ATP is the nation’s largest flight school, providing students with the most efficient path to a successful airline pilot career. For 40 years, ATP has been the leader in professional flight training, supplying pilots to airlines and corporate operators.

Source: ATP Flight School
Photo Credit: ATP Flight School

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Australian Flight Training Group SFC to Invest 15 Million into Expanding Training infrastructure

Tamworth, Australia – Sydney Flight College (SFC) is expanding its operations at the Tamworth pilot training facility, aiming to increase student intake sixfold and invest millions in infrastructure, aircraft, and simulators over the next three years.

  • SFC welcomed its first cohort of 16 students in July 2024 and has increased its intake to 33 students this year.
  • The college plans to expand to four intakes per year, reaching 200 students annually by 2027.
  • By the end of 2025, nearly 100 students are expected to be in training concurrently.
  • SFC has invested between $5–$6 million in its Tamworth academy, with further planned investments of approximately $15 million.
  • The investment includes acquiring new aircraft, simulators, and facility upgrades.
  • The New South Wales Government contributed $1.1 million through the Regional Job Creation Fund, matched by SFC’s investment.
  • The college plans to move its operations from Bankstown to Tamworth and expand its fleet from 8 to 30 aircraft.
  • SFC is also launching an in-house maintenance organisation under its parent company, Schofields Flying Club.
  • The maintenance division aims to provide component repairs and overhauls, improving aircraft availability for students.
  • Singapore Flying College is expected to become the Tamworth’s facility’s second tenant, though no official confirmation has been made.

Statements:

  • “SFC will be taking four intakes a year to Tamworth, growing to 200 students.” – Joseph Pilo, CEO, Sydney Flight College.
  • “The NSW Government also invested through the Regional Job Creation Fund. They gave us $1.1 million, then SFC had to do a counter investment to buy the aircraft and the simulators we need.” – Joseph Pilo
  • “This is the first time in the history of the Schofields Flying Club, since its establishment in 1969, the first time they’ve had their own maintenance shop.” – Scott Pringle, SFC Board Member.
  • “Facilities out here are purpose-built for pilot training, so to be able to use a facility like this and grow it back to its former glory is exceptional.” – Andrew McIntosh, Head of Operations, SFC.

About Sydney Flight College (SFC)
Sydney Flight College (SFC), based in Australia, provides pilot training for aspiring commercial and airline pilots.

Source: The Northern Daily Leader
Photo Credit: Sydney Flight College

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Leading Airline Aligned Flight Training Organisation FTEJerez is Seeking to Hire Flight Instructors in 2025

Jerez, Spain – one of Europe’s largest flight training organisation’s and a preferred flight training partner to airlines such as British Airways, Ryanair, Volotea, Norwegian, Vueling Aer Lingus and a few others – FTEJerez is seeking to hire flight instructors as it grow’s its fleet including the recently announced order for 20 new Piper Archer DX aircraft.

Selected candidates will be flying FTE’s fleet of PA28 and DA42 aircraft

FTEJerez is seeking instructors that meet the following entry requirements:

  • EASA Commercial Pilots Licence (current).
  • Valid Instrument and Flight Instructor ratings.
  • Class 1 Medical.
  • Non-native English-speaking instructors must hold a valid ICAO ELP qualification at level 5 or 6.
  • (Optional but preferred) IRI, ME CRI, CPL FE, IRE, FIC or FIE qualifications

FTEJerez offers:

  • An attractive remuneration packages. A fixed salary plus a variable component depending upon individual productivity.
  • Relocation assistance.
  • Pension plan.
  • High quality of life in, not only one of Europe’s most beautiful locations, with a wonderful climate, but also with one of the lowest costs of living.

“At FTEJerez we recruit professionals at various levels of experience and, for the right candidates, we are willing to sponsor the necessary ratings to meet our requirements and arrange work permits for non-EU residents.” states FTEJerez.

For more information kindly contact FTEJerez recruitment@ftejerez.com or visit their career website.

About FTEJerez
With over 30 years at the forefront of flight training and more than 3,000 graduated pilots now flying for the world’s leading airlines, FTEJerez (Flight Training Europe, S.L.) has established itself as one of the most respected and exclusive flight training organization. Specializing in ab initio ATPL and MPL training programs for aspiring pilots and airline cadets, FTEJerez offers a comprehensive range of aviation training services. These include airline pilot training, Air Traffic Control programs, and bespoke solutions tailored to corporate clients, in partnership with some of the most prominent airlines in the world. With a commitment to excellence, FTEJerez ensures that its students receive world-class training in a state-of-the-art environment.

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Indian Pilot Training Group FSTC Launches 2025 Valentine Offer for CPL Holders to Gain FFS Time

Delhi, India – FSTC, an Indian aviation training group operating both flight schools and full flight simulator training centers, has launched a marketing campaign “Valentine Offer for current and aspiring Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) holders” providing time on a full flight simulator in its Delhi or Hyderabad training center’s.

  • The offer is open to CPL holders or those with 150+ flying hours
  • Participants will get a 20-minute flight experience in a FFS
  • The offer is valid for one month, with slots available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Registration closes on February 13, and 10 candidates will be selected through a lucky draw.

Source: FSTC
Photo Credit: FSTC

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UK FTO Euro Flight Training Appoints 2025 General Manager

United Kingdom – Solent Airport based DTO and ATO flight school Euro Flight Training has appointed George Coe as its new General Manager. Coe, an experienced aviation professional, aims to contribute to flight training at all levels and support the next generation of aviators.

Euro Flight Training is approved by the UK CAA (ATO and DTO for all training). As well as offering training for the PPL and LAPL, the organisation is approved to offer training for the Instrument Rating (single and multi engine, also CB IR) as well as multi engine class ratings and CPL courses. Both its single engine and multi engine Diamond simulators are fully FNPT II approved and can be used for all training requirements from approved training to refresher sessions, familiarisation and differences training or the revalidation of ratings.

Source: George Coe
Photo Credit: George Coe

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