Market Intelligence: -Flight School
Flight Training Group Intercontinental Aviation Academy Indicates New Middle East Cadet Pilot Program
Iraq – Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise (IAE), a subsidiary of Mehyou Group, which operates flight training organisations in Lebanon and Cyprus and recently launched the Intercontinental Aviation Academy and recently announced the opening of its new administrative hub and career consulting center in Iraq, has indicated that it will soon be announcing an abinitio cadet pilot training program with an Iraqi airline.
This expansion marks a significant milestone in the academy’s mission to connect aspiring aviators across the country with its regional flight training network.
- The new Iraq office will guide future pilots through their aviation career journeys, starting with ground school training in Iraq, followed by flight training at IAA’s international bases (Cyprus, Lebanon and soon the United Arab Emirates).
“This base is just the beginning—it will also serve as the foundation for our first Airline Cadet Program in partnership with an Iraqi airline, which we look forward to revealing at the right time.” stated Wissam Mehyou, Founder of IAA.
Last year in August 2024 Mr Mehyou shared in an interview that it is aiming on investing up to USD 20 million over the next five years
“We are actively studying multiple geographic locations to identify promising investment opportunities, aiming to invest up to $20 million in the next five years. By prioritising markets with high demand and a lack of adequate training infrastructure, we aim to significantly impact the future of aviation education and the development of skilled professionals across diverse regions,” shared Wissam Mehyou, CEO and Chairman of IAE.
For its new training base in Larnaca, Cyprus IAE is procuring a new and efficient fleet and is “we are actively exploring avenues such as electric aircraft and sustainable aviation fuels,” according to Mr Mehyou.
Source: Wissam Mehyou (Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise)
Related Posts
Global Flight Training Group, Airways Aviation Group, Celebrates Graduation of Airline Cadets in January 2025
Global flight training group Airways Aviation, which operates pilot training academies across Europe, the Middle East, Asia/Australia, and India, base in Finland – Airways Aviation Nordic has celebrated the graduation of Air Astana cadets.
“Congratulations to Batch KZR4 cadets now ready to take on the skies with Air Astana. Thank you to Air Astana for entrusting us with ATPL training at our Pirkkala facility.” shared Airways Aviation.
Airways Aviation Nordic operates a fleet of 12 Diamond Aircraft and 3 Simulators (including an Airbus A320 Level 1 FTD).
Source: Airways Aviation
Related Posts
Oman Aviation Academy Announces 2025 Appointment for Chief Theoretical Knowledge Instructor
Sohar, Oman – the country’s only flight training organisation Oman Aviation Academy has appointed Mohammad Reza Ghasemian as its new EASA Approved Chief Theoretical Knowledge Instructor. To learn more about Oman Aviation Academy or Mr Ghasemian kindly connect with him.
In 2024 Oman Aviation Academy had received ATO EASA certification as of February 2024 (EASA.ATO.0048). “As a Part-ORA certified training organisation with the privilege to provide Part-FCL training courses, including the use of FSTDs, as listed in training course approval.” stated EASA.
Source: Mohammad Reza Ghasemian (Oman Aviation Academy)
Related Posts
Global Flight Training Group Airways Aviation Expands Activities in Africa Through Partnership with MAPA
Casablanca, Morocco – Global flight training group Airways Aviation, which operates pilot training academies across Europe, the Middle East, Asia/Australia, and India, has shared that Airways Aviation ESMA (Airways ESMA), and Morocco Aviation Private Academy (MAPA), a renowned provider of pilot and aviation engineering training, have signed a new strategic cooperation agreement to deliver key phases of the bespoke, Airways Aviation EASA Airline Pilot Pathway Programme in Morocco.
This pioneering partnership reflects the growing importance of Morocco as a new hub for aviation in Africa and beyond, leveraging the country’s expanding socio-economic influence and significant government investment and emphasis on education, training, and aviation infrastructure. It also aligns with the development and expansion plans of regional carriers including Royal Air Maroc (RAM) and Air Arabia Maroc which projects robust growth in the sector in the coming years.
Under the agreement, Airways ESMA and MAPA will collaborate to train prospective student pilots via a comprehensive but cost effective, multi-phase EASA Airline Pilot Pathway Programme for aspiring pilots. The pathway includes Foundation Studies and Assessment, Private Pilot Licence (PPL) training and structured hour-building, CPL, EASA ATPL Theory in Morocco followed by advanced flight training modules such as Multi-Engine Instrument Rating, Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) and Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) at one of the growing number of Airways Academies in either France, Italy, Portugal or Finland.
The aim is to produce highly skilled, internationally certified pilots ready to meet the evolving demands of African and other global airlines.
A significant element of this collaboration is the Airways ESMA – EASA Theory Distance Learning along with the planned establishment of a dedicated EASA‐certified ATPL Theory and Examination Centre in Morocco to be located at MAPA’s facilities. When established, this centre would operate under Airways’ regulatory certifications and licenses, with MAPA providing on-ground support and facilities. The partnership also paves the way for additional programmes such as Cabin Crew Training, Aircraft Maintenance & Engineering courses and future joint marketing and recruitment initiatives.
“We are delighted to join forces with MAPA to bring a pathway for world-class EASA pilot training to Morocco,” said Romy Hawatt, Founder and Chairman of the Airways Aviation Group. “This agreement underscores our mutual commitment to fostering international-standard aviation education and responding to the fast-growing demand for highly qualified pilots in Morocco, Africa and beyond.”
“At MAPA, we are dedicated to raising the bar for aviation training in Morocco,” added Musa Al Mustafa, Chairman of the Board at MAPA. “Partnering with Airways Aviation Group — an established global leader in aviation education — ensures we can deliver a programme that meets EASA’s rigorous standards, prepares our students for successful airline careers and strengthens Morocco’s position as a continental aviation powerhouse.”
With Morocco’s strategic location and the surging need for well-trained, EASA-qualified pilots, the Airways–MAPA partnership promises to be a game-changer in aviation training. By uniting world-class expertise and local industry insight, this collaboration provides a transformative pathway that will help shape the future of African aviation education, skills and workforce development.
About Airways Aviation Group
Airways Aviation Group is a global leader in aviation education, offering EASA, CASA, and ICAO-certified pilot training across multiple international locations. With over four decades of industry experience, the Group has trained thousands of pilots and aviation professionals worldwide.
About Morocco Aviation Private Academy (MAPA)
Morocco Aviation Private Academy (MAPA) is a leading training institution in Morocco, providing ICAO PPL, CPL, ATPL IR and EASA Aircraft Maintenance Engineering programmes. With a commitment to excellence, MAPA is dedicated to developing highly skilled aviation professionals who meet the stringent standards of the global aviation sector.
Source: Airways Aviation Group
Photo Credit: Airways Aviation Group
Related Posts
ATP Flight School Reopens Florida and Indicates it Will Take Delivery of More than 54 Aircraft in 2025
USA — ATP Flight School, the country’s largest flight training group ATP Flight School concluded 2024 with a milestone achievement, successfully placing 891 graduates with regional and major airlines as well as corporate operators, is pleased to announce the reopening of its airline pilot training center at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) this March. After closing due to damage caused by Hurricane Ian, the facility has been restored, allowing ATP to once again bring its proven Airline Career Pilot Program and professional flight training resources to the Sarasota community.
The Sarasota location joins ATP’s extensive network of 80-plus training centers nationwide, including 9 across Florida, strategically positioned to meet the rising demand for airline pilots. With industry forecasts indicating a cumulative shortage of 28,126 pilots by 2030 (according to NACA) and over 17,000 retirements projected by the end of the decade, this reopening provides a timely opportunity for career-focused students in the region.
Through the Airline Career Pilot Program, ATP offers an accelerated pathway to the airlines, taking students from zero experience to airline pilot in just two and a half years. Graduates benefit from 38 airline hiring partnerships, including pathways to every major airline, access to cadet programs, and up to $17,500 in airline-sponsored tuition reimbursement. Classes start every Monday, enabling students to begin their training without delay.
“ATP is looking forward to once again offering airline pilot career training in Sarasota and providing aspiring pilots in the area with the most efficient path to the airlines,” said Michael Arnold, Vice President of Marketing, ATP Flight School. “ATP provides students with an airline career solution, backed by unmatched investment in safety and aircraft. We are excited to return to Sarasota and help students achieve their airline pilot career goals.”
The reopening of the Sarasota training center is part of ATP’s larger effort to support the increasing demand for airline pilots. In addition to expanding access through new facilities, ATP is taking delivery of 54 new Cessna Skyhawks through 2025 and over 135 total by 2027. This unparalleled investment provides students with the latest in reliable, factory-new training aircraft equipped with modern technology, ensuring they are prepared for their airline careers.
About ATP Flight School
ATP is the USA’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
Growing Flight Training Infrastructure within India – Chimes Aviation Academy
In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Dev Punj – Vice President of Chimes Aviation Academy – one of the largest flight training organisations in India operating over 20 aircraft from 2 bases.
The conversation covers:
- History: Chimes Aviation Academy was established in 2008 to address India’s shortage of quality pilot training infrastructure. The academy began with 10 aircraft during the global financial crisis, which posed significant challenges. Over the years, the academy has grown significantly and now operates two bases with a fleet of 24 aircraft, training over150 cadets.
- Fleet Expansion and Future Plans: In 2024, Chimes Aviation Academy expanded its fleet by adding new aircraft, including the Tecnam P2010, Cessna 172, and multi-engine DA42. The academy is also planning to further grow its capacity, with an ambitious goal of adding up to 70 more aircraft in the coming years. To accommodate increasing demand, they are actively scouting locations for a third base in India.
- Addressing Industry Challenges: The academy has taken proactive measures to address key challenges in the Indian aviation training sector. One key initiative is the Chimes Fight Instructor Retention Program, which ensures a stable pipeline of flight instructors by offering cadets a pathway to join Indigo after serving as instructors for two years.
- Demand for Pilots in India: The demand for pilots in India continues to grow, with the domestic training infrastructure currently training only 40% of its pilot needs. With record-breaking aircraft orders from airlines like Indigo and Air India, the industry is under pressure to meet increasing pilot requirements.
- Global Collaborations: Chimes Aviation Academy has positioned itself as a global collaborator in the Indian pilot training sector – working with international flight schools to convert foreign pilot licenses for Indian cadets and maintain a reputation for high-quality, efficient training.
For more information:
You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.
To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:
Related Posts
Training Aircraft Manufacturer, Piper Aircraft, Announces Fleet Agreement with Spain’s FTEJerez for 20 Piper Archer DX
Vero Beach, Florida, USA – Piper Aircraft announced a new fleet agreement with FTEJerez (Flight Training Europe) for the acquisition of 20 new Piper Archer DX aircraft, delivering the first 10 units in December of 2024. The addition of these aircraft enhances FTE’s training fleet, further solidifying its position as a leader in professional pilot training.
Based in Jerez, Spain, FTEJerez is recognized for its world-class pilot training programs and close partnerships with major airlines, including Aer Lingus, British Airways, Etihad, Iberia, Ryanair, and others. Training cadets from around the globe, the academy consistently delivers industry-ready pilots equipped to meet the demands of commercial aviation.
“Our acquisition of these brand-new Piper Archer DX aircraft is a testament to FTE’s commitment to excellence in aviation training,” said Oscar Sordo, CEO of FTEJerez. “Having successfully operated older Piper Warrior aircraft for many years, we have a proven track record with Piper as a reliable aircraft supplier. The Archer DX will enhance our training capabilities and ensure that our students receive the best possible training in a modern, sustainable, and efficient flying environment.”
The Piper Archer DX is renowned for its reliability, advanced safety features, and modern design, making it a trusted choice for flight schools worldwide. With this expansion, FTEJerez continues to lead in delivering the highest standards of aviation training while embracing more sustainable solutions.
“Expanding into the European market with FTEJerez underscores Piper Aircraft’s commitment to supporting top-tier pilot training,” said Ron Gunnarson, Vice President of Sales, Marketing, Customer Support and Quality at Piper Aircraft. “The Archer DX delivers the reliability, performance, and efficiency required to meet the demands of students and airline partners alike.”
About Piper Aircraft
Piper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fl., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single and twin-engine aircraft and is the first general aviation aircraft manufacturer in the world to certify Garmin® Emergency Autoland. The single-engine M-Class series – the M700 FURY, M500, and M350 – offers businesses and individuals elegant performance, value and a superior ownership experience. The Personal Class Archer LX and Archer DLX balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in a piston-powered aircraft. The Trainer Class Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, and Seminole aircraft form the most complete technically advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association.
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.
Source: Piper Aircraft
Photo Credit: Piper Aircraft
Related Posts
US Regional Airline’s Management Team and Aircraft to Visit AeroGuard Flight Training Center in January 2025
Phoenix, United States – headquartered global flight training group AeroGuard Flight Training Center, which operates a number of flight training bases in the United States, will welcome SkyWest Senior Management at its headquarters on January 2028. SkyWest will be flying into campus with one of their aircraft, opening it up for Pilot Pathway Cadets to tour, and their Senior Management will be presenting to cadets – including their SVP Flight Operations, Tracy Gallo.
“We look forward to providing a valuable networking opportunity for AeroGuard Pathway Cadets to connect with SkyWest’s Senior Management and Recruitment team directly and support them as they prepare for their commercial airline pilot careers,” said AeroGuard.
Source: AeroGuard
Photo Credit: AeroGuard
Related Posts
Global Flight Training Group, AeroGuard Flight Training Center, Welcomes 3rd Class of Air India Cadets
Phoenix, United States headquartered global flight training group AeroGuard Flight Training Center, which operates a number of flight training bases in the United States, has welcomed its third class of Cadets from Air India to its Phoenix, Arizona, USA campus.
AeroGuard announced its selection by Air India to be a flight training provider for the airline in early 2024. Since this time, cadets have gone through a carefully structured screening process and have successfully completed the DGCA Ground School portion of their training in India. These Cadets are now at AeroGuard’s Arizona campus where they will complete their practical flight training, earning the certifications and ratings required for their careers with airline.
With its commitment to safety, student success, and its high-quality training curriculum, AeroGuard is providing initial pilot training for additional leading airlines including Cathay Pacific, China Airlines and Air New Zealand. AeroGuard has expanded its training capacity across all three U.S. campuses with 250+ experienced flight instructors and over 110 aircraft in its rapidly expanding fleet.
Source: AeroGuard Flight Training Center