In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Nathan Gray – CEO at Padpilot, one of the world’s leading digital publishers of pilot training material for flight training organisations and aspiring pilots.

The conversation covers:

• Introduction to Padpilot: Leading provider of digital aviation learning resources that has been producing educational materials since 2011 to support pilot training worldwide.
• Padpilot’s Products & Innovations: Padpilot offers various courses: Foundation, PPL(A), ATPL(A) and ATPL(H) theory teaching and learning resources available on all devices, and AI-powered tools such as the Padpilot Briefing Room. The company focuses on making aviation education more engaging through animations, simple English explanations, and 3D graphics.
• Industry Partnerships & Market Presence: The company collaborates with over 160 Approved Training Organizations (ATOs) globally, including major players like Etihad Airways and Lufthansa. Its materials are available across different regulatory frameworks, including EASA and UK CAA.
• Pilot Demand & Training Challenges: Nathan highlighted the growing global demand for pilots, estimating the need for 500,000–600,000 new pilots over the next decade. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high-quality training, addressing instructor shortages, and ensuring lifelong learning rather than rote memorization.
• Future Growth & Investment Support: Padpilot’s acquisition by Rose Street Partners has provided the company with the resources to expand into new markets and accelerate its growth. With this investment, Padpilot aims to enhance its offerings, develop new training solutions, and continue innovating in aviation education.

For more information:

• Padpilot Website
• Padpilot Linkedin

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

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