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Switzerland – AELO Swiss Academy inaugurated its state-of-the-art facilities 2000 square meter facilities at Locarno Airport, the Euro 5 million investment represents AELO’s commitment to redefining pilot education, combining Swiss precision, advanced technology, and an uncompromising focus on quality and efficiency. The new campus includes an expansive hangar capable of housing advanced simulators, modern briefing rooms, and fully equipped classrooms, all designed to create a seamless and professional training environment. Complementing these are new administrative spaces and on-site dormitories, offering an immersive learning experience for students.

The inauguration ceremony was conducted by Captain Joe (Joe Diebolder), renowned airline pilot, aviation YouTuber, and motivational speaker, who also serves as AELO’s Pilot Recruitment Mentor. Captain Joe brings to AELO his exceptional experience as a Cargolux Boeing 747 Senior First Officer, aviation educator with over 1.7 million YouTube followers, and a coach with deep insights into airline recruitment processes.

Distinguished Speakers

The event gathered key figures from across the aviation sector:

• Stefano Buratti, Owner and Head of Training at AELO Swiss Academy, delivered the opening speech. A mechanical and aerospace engineer with an extensive career across maintenance, operations, and airline training (Neos, Darwin, VistaJet), Stefano has personally flown with every AELO student, embodying the academy’s hands-on, mentorship-driven philosophy.
• David Bieli, Head of Swiss Flight Schools at FOCA, shared his long-standing connection with AELO, having been Stefano’s first instructor in 2007. His continued support and collaboration highlight AELO’s strong integration within the Swiss aviation education ecosystem.
• Eric Duijkers, representing EPST (European Pilot Selection & Training), AELO’s first major institutional partner, reflected on a partnership that began with the successful placement of students from a closed Portuguese school — including his own son, who trained at AELO and went on to become an instructor.
• Jane Wang, Director of Global Sales, Marketing and Flight Operations at Diamond Aircraft, emphasized the strength of AELO’s industry partnerships. During the ceremony, Jane and Stefano signed a purchase order for up to 18 new Diamond DA20 aircraft, a moment of historic significance as Diamond Aircraft officially restarted DA20 production after 10 years at AELO’s request.

A Day of Mentorship and Career Guidance

Earlier that morning, AELO students participated in a coaching and recruitment workshop led by distinguished guests from the industry:

• Valerio Deda, former AELO student and now instructor, airline pilot at Air Dolomiti, and member of their pilot selection team, shared invaluable insights on what recruiters look for during airline interviews.
• Paolo Pizzacchera, Type Rating Instructor on Boeing 767 and 777 at Challenge Airlines, provided guidance on professional standards in commercial aviation. Two AELO graduates were recently hired by Challenge Airlines thanks to his mentorship.
• Nicholas Burren, Head of Training at SWISS International Air Lines, delivered a powerful session on professionalism and airline readiness. As the person who first supported AELO in becoming the first non-Lufthansa Group school to train Swiss pilots, his presence reaffirmed the trust placed in AELO’s training excellence.

Looking Ahead

The inauguration marked not only the unveiling of new facilities but also AELO’s ongoing mission to bridge training and employment through partnerships, mentoring, and innovation. With Captain Joe now serving as AELO’s official Pilot Recruitment Mentor, students benefit from first-hand guidance from one of the most respected and relatable voices in modern aviation.

“Our goal is to take students from zero experience to the right-hand seat of an airliner as seamlessly as possible,” said Buratti. “These new facilities, and the strong network of professionals supporting our students, are key to achieving that vision.”

Source: AELO Swiss Academy