Market Intelligence: -Training Aircraft Developments

AELO Swiss Academy, Switzerland’s high-performance aviation academy, has reached another significant milestone in its ambitious growth strategy with the delivery of a brand-new Tecnam P2008 aircraft, expanding its fleet to 16 planes. In addition, an order has been placed for another Tecnam P2008, which will be delivered in January 2025, further expanding the fleet to 17 aircraft.

As part of its commitment to offering the highest standards in pilot training, AELO Swiss Academy is also investing €6 million in the expansion and modernization of its facilities at Locarno Airport. These new facilities, set to be completed in the second quarter of 2025, will support both the academy’s operations and the training needs of its students in a more efficient and integrated way.

This substantial investment aims to create a state-of-the-art campus that will revolutionize pilot training and significantly enhance the student experience. The new facilities will include:

• Spacious hangars: Designed to house the entire AELO fleet, the new hangars will provide seamless access for aircraft maintenance and operations, ensuring high efficiency and safety standards.
• Advanced simulators: Integrated into the training program, the simulators, including a MPS 737NG Flight Training Device will allow students to practice and refine their flying skills in a highly realistic, controlled environment.
• Modern classrooms and briefing rooms: Equipped with the latest educational technology, these spaces will support comprehensive theoretical learning and in-depth pre-flight preparation.
• Offices and administrative spaces: A streamlined operational hub, ensuring AELO’s professional environment meets the needs of its growing staff and student body.
• On-site dormitories: To enhance the immersive learning experience, AELO is providing high-quality accommodation for its students. These dormitories will allow students to focus on their rigorous training without commuting distractions.

The investment represents a new era of growth and modernization for AELO Swiss Academy, which continues to build its reputation for excellence. Known for offering world-class pilot training, the academy prides itself on hiring some of the most experienced instructors in Europe: Two-thirds of the academy’s 38 flight instructors currently flying for major European airlines such as Ryanair, Swiss, Lufthansa, and others. These investments in infrastructure, combined with AELO’s experienced faculty, aim to provide students with an all-encompassing educational experience that prepares them for successful aviation careers.

Stefano Buratti, CEO of AELO Swiss Academy, remarked: “While our current facilities have served us well, this significant investment reflects our commitment to the future. We are excited to share this vision for 2025, transforming AELO Swiss Academy into a premier aviation training hub in Europe, tailored to meet the needs of aspiring pilots in the years to come.”

The academy has also experienced significant growth in its student body, with enrollment in the ATPL Integrated program doubling this year. This growth comes despite the academy having raised its entrance requirements, ensuring that those who join AELO are highly motivated and well-prepared to meet the demands of professional pilot training.

As the academy continues to expand its fleet and modernize its campus, AELO remains dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of pilot training, ensuring its graduates are fully equipped to succeed in the competitive world of aviation. This new chapter solidifies AELO’s position as a leader in aviation education and a trusted partner for airlines across Europe.

Source: AELO Swiss Academy
Photo Credit: AELO Swiss Academy