Canberra, Australia – Leidos Australia has become the first organisation in the country to award nationally recognised qualifications for fixed-wing aircrew training, following its approval as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). The initiative introduces the newly created Certificates III and IV in Airborne Operations, launched earlier this year by Industry Skills Australia, and represents a significant advancement in formal training standards for non-pilot aircrew roles.

• First nationally recognised qualifications for fixed-wing aircrew training now available in Australia.

• Certificates III and IV in Airborne Operations formally acknowledge skills for specialised airborne missions, including:

  • Search and rescue

  • Medical evacuation

  • Law enforcement

  • Border protection

• Aircrew duties covered under the program include operating mission equipment and sensors, communications relay, and supply drops to persons in distress over land or sea.

• Leidos identified a qualification gap two years ago and partnered with Industry Skills Australia to develop the new framework.

• Development involved 18 months of national collaboration between industry, training providers, and regulators.

• Qualifications to be issued via Leidos’ RTO, enhancing the organisation’s profile in specialist aviation training.

Statements

• “Aircrew play a critical role in national security and emergency response. Providing them with these formal credentials supports national recognition of their skill, professionalism, and dedication,” said Leidos Airborne Solutions Vice President James Woodhams. “These new qualifications promote aviation career pathways for the next generation – and provide a unique option for those wishing to pursue a career in airborne operations.”

• Industry Skills Australia CEO Paul Walsh said, “Industry Skills Australia is pleased to see these new qualifications being delivered to aviation professionals who carry out specialised airborne missions, saving lives and safeguarding Australians. The development of these qualifications is an example of the way ISA works closely with aviation industry businesses, workers and training providers to understand their workforce needs and implement sustainable training solutions.”

About Leidos
Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025.

Source: Leidos