Scholarships

© Commonwealth of Australia

If you've read about some of the costs of flight training mentioned on this website you'll have recognised that civilian aviation is an expensive business. Whilst getting a full scholarship to pay for all your training is just not possible these days there are sponsorships, cadetships and scholarships available that can provide some help, that you may want to consider applying for to aid you on your way to becoming a pilot.

 

Below is a list of organisations that have recently sponsored pilot training. From year to year the application requirements and funding available change so you should contact each organisation for further information. If you meet the requirements then why not apply?

Source: Qantas

Airlines

The full ATPL sponsorship of years gone by, seem to be few and far between. It is recognised that there is a global pilot shortage on the horizon and these policies may well change. While a return to full sponsorship is unlikely, most of the major airlines in Australia offer some sort of sponsorship or cadetship which can lead to employment with the airline and the opportunity to pay off the cost of your training.

 

Following are some links for you to follow:

Qantas Pilot Careers

Virgin Australia Pilot Careers

Rex Pilot Cadet Program

Australian Air Force Cadets

The Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) offers flying training, either in gliders or powered aircraft during school holidays and at weekends. Lessons are sponsored by the Air Force, so the cost to cadets is substantially less than that charged by commercial flying schools.

 

Cadets interested in flying training must meet the following criteria:

  • One year’s basic training at a Squadron
  • A minimum of 15 years of age to solo in gliders or 16 years of age to fly solo in powered aircraft
  • Be recommended by their Squadron Commanding Officer
  • Meet standard flying medical requirements
  • Attain parental consent
  • Undertake a selection interview for suitability.

 

To find out how to join the AAFC visit their website.

© Commonwealth of Australia

Australian Air League

The Australian Air League is a volunteer organisation that offers  Air Activities in all states, either through affiliations with commercial flying schools that offer competitively priced flying, or through the Air Activities Centre at Camden Airport, NSW.

 

Scouts Australia

The Scouts offers air activities including gliding and powered flight training in most states. As a volunteer organisation they are able to offer competitive flying rates.

 

For more information visit their websites:

Australian Air League

Scouts NSW Air Activity Centre

Not for Profit Organisations

There are a number of Not for Profit Organisations that offer a variety of scholarships that may go part of the way to help fund your training. These include:

  • The Honourable Company of Air Pilots, Australian Region
  • The Australian Women Pilots Association
  • Women in Aviation, Australian Chapter
  • The Royal Federation of Aero Clubs Australia
  • The Australian Federation of Air Pilots
  • The Regional Aviation Association of Australia

© The Honourable Company of Air Pilots, Australia Incorporated