Archives: Market Intelligences

Turkish Airlines Flight Academy Expands Pilot Training to 5th Base

Turkey – Turkish Airlines Flight Academy (TAFA), the flight training group subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, has expanded its pilot training operations to Adana Şakirpaşa Airport, further strengthening its capacity to train future pilots for Turkish Airlines.

  • The academy already operates training facilities in Aydın, Selçuk, Uşak, and Bodrum, with Adana now added as the latest location.
  • With a fleet of 49 training aircraft, 8 flight simulators, and more than 80 instructors, the academy graduates 300 pilots annually.
  • The expansion aims to meet Turkish Airlines’ growing pilot demand by increasing training capacity.

TAFA conducted a remarkable growth over the past five years. The academy has expanded its operational capacity threefold and significantly increased its annual flight hours to 68,000 in 2024.

Source: Turkish Airlines Flight Academy
Photo Credit: Turkish Airlines Flight Academy

Related Posts

US Flight Training Group Epic Flight Academy Expands Fleet with 5 New Cessna 172 Skyhawks in February 2025

New Smyrna Beach, Florida, USA – headquartered flight and maintenance training group Epic Flight Academy has expanded its fleet with the arrival of five brand-new Cessna 172 Skyhawks, freshly delivered from the factory to its New Smyrna Beach campus.

  • In April 2023 Epic placed an order for 15 new C172’s – more information on this order found here
  • The new aircraft will be integrated into pilot training programs, enhancing the academy’s training capacity.
  • The maintenance team will paint the aircraft tails bright red for safety before they enter active service.
  • The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is widely recognized as a leading training aircraft, offering reliability and advanced avionics for flight students.

In December 2024, Epic Flight Academy opened a new location in Addison, Texas – offering “Domestic students enrolling at Epic’s newest location in Addison, Texas, by December 31, 2024, will receive a $1,000 credit toward their first course.”

The strength of enrolments supports Epic’s expansion with locations in:

  • New Smyrna
  • Jaclsonville
  • Ocala
  • Tallahassee
  • Tucson

The company was founded in 1999 and provides FAA-approved flight training and aircraft mechanic training.

Source: Epic Flight Academy
Photo Credit: Epic Flight Academy

Related Posts

India Pilot Training Group and Facilitator ThePilot.In Celebrates Ground School Graduation of Batch 4 of Air India Cadet Pilot Program

India – Batch 04 of the Air India Cadet Pilot Program has successfully completed its Ground School training with ThePilot.in.

  • The cadets will now proceed to the U.S. for flight training at AeroGuard Flight Training Center and L3Harris Airline Academy
  • A ceremony was held to commemorate their achievement, with esteemed Air India leaders in attendance, providing guidance and support.

“A heartfelt congratulations to Batch 04 of the Air India Cadet Pilot Program on successfully completing their Ground School with ThePilot.in! This achievement marks a significant milestone in their journey toward becoming future airline pilots.” shared Urvi Jani, Managing Partner at ThePilot.in

Source: ThePilot.in
Photo Credit: ThePilot.in

Related Posts

California Aeronautical University Partners with Endeavor Air, Regional Airline for Delta Air Lines

USA – California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce its new partnership with Endeavor Air, which will provide CAU students and instructors with a step-by-step pathway to become a pilot at Endeavor Air, a pathway to Delta Air Lines.

Through the partnership, CAU will become a university partner of Endeavor’s Student to Pilot (STEP) Program and provide eligible students and instructors with exclusive access to STEP benefits. From informational sessions to personal encouragement, the program helps participants navigate the unique transition from classroom to cockpit as they begin their careers as commercial pilots.

When CAU students are accepted into STEP and meet all transition requirements, they’re eligible to start flying at Endeavor as a First Officer pilot. Plus, as a subsidiary of Delta Air Lines, Endeavor Air pilots have an exclusive, guaranteed and contractual career pathway to Delta – no testing or interview required. This gives CAU students and instructors a direct pathway to Delta once they meet flight-hour and airline requirements.

CAU will be the only STEP university partner on the west coast.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Endeavor Air,” says Matthew Johnston, President of California Aeronautical University. “By offering our students and instructors a direct pathway to Endeavor Air and ultimately Delta Air Lines, we’re opening doors to incredible career opportunities while strengthening the future of aviation.”

“We are excited to welcome CAU to our STEP program,” says Ginny Zarras, Vice President of Human Resources at Endeavor Air. “Our goal is to help students and flight instructors succeed as they launch their careers as pilots in the airline industry. The future of aviation is bright, and we can’t wait to welcome the next generation of pilots to Endeavor.”

Strong and growing relationships between the University and important airline partners like Endeavor Air are critical to the success of CAU graduates entering the field and to the overall health of the commercial aviation industry. CAU currently partners with major and regional airlines around the country, providing a variety of career pathways for its students.

CAU and Endeavor celebrated the partnership at a launch event at the University’s Bakersfield campus on Thursday, February 6, 2025. During the event, Endeavor representatives shared details of the STEP Program with students and offered networking opportunities during a lunch mixer.

About California Aeronautical University
California Aeronautical University (CAU) is preparing the next generation of aviation professionals. Serving students from all over the country, the University offers career-focused programs in aviation, aviation business, and aircraft maintenance. With on-airport locations throughout California and in Arizona that provide an ideal learning environment, CAU courses are delivered in a year-round, fast-paced schedule that enables students to enter the pipeline for aviation careers in the shortest amount of time. Through the University’s strong partnerships with airlines, influential aviation organizations, and leaders in the aviation community, CAU graduates become a part of a larger aviation network and reap the benefits of these relationships, including direct access to several airline cadet programs. The University offers access to federal student financial aid, scholarships, and veteran benefits to those who qualify.

Source: California Aeronautical University
Photo Credit: California Aeronautical University

Related Posts

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

Related Posts

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

Related Posts

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

Related Posts