Demystifying Pilot Training: Overcoming Barriers to Your Aviation Dream

No career in the world can take you to new heights quite like becoming a pilot. While this is a childhood dream for many, it’s often something that seems out of reach. Not only has the cost of training posed a significant hurdle, but many individuals fear that they won’t be able to keep up with the syllabus or actually find a job in the future once qualified.

The fantastic news is that there have been some significant changes in the aviation industry in recent years and airline pilot training is now more affordable and accessible than ever before. Not only will individuals be able to travel the globe and gain a whole new perspective on life, but the rewards are incredibly diverse. Egnatia Aviation is one of the biggest and most renowned flight schools in Europe (and the world) and is bringing an unrivalled approach to both teaching and learning that will transform the overall experience.

Understanding the Investment in Pilot Training

When researching pilot training, cost will be an important consideration. If you live in, or are hoping to study in, Europe, there will be different financial aspects to keep in mind. Of course, the school you choose, training programs and even the cost of living can factor into the estimate. Here is a breakdown of the general tuition fees and other expenses that you may want to better understand when making your decision:

• The cost of the training packages to get a pilot’s license (CPL) starts at 55,000€ and may go up to 120,000€.
• Living expenses can vary, based on the type of lifestyle you would choose (e.g. lodging and eating habits)

Bear in mind that not all Flight Academies are transparent, and there might be ‘hidden costs’. Indeed, obtaining a pilot license often comes with unforeseen costs that many training providers fail to disclose upfront. This lack of transparency is aimed at attracting students with seemingly low initial prices, yet ultimately, cadets may find themselves paying far more than anticipated.

It’s crucial to remember that the attractive price advertised for a pilot license may not reflect the true cost. Unexpected additional expenses can have negative repercussions not only for cadets but also for the Flight Academy and the aviation industry as a whole. For the academy, it can damage their reputation and fuel doubts about the industry’s integrity. For trainees, it could derail their financial planning and, in severe cases, jeopardise the continuation of their studies due to unforeseen financial burdens.

The hidden costs of acquiring a pilot license include, but are not limited to training materials (such as books, uniforms, and flight headsets), aircraft fuel, landing and takeoff fees, instructor and consultancy fees, final examination and licensing fees, and essential courses for future employment. Being aware of these potential additional costs is crucial for anyone considering pursuing a career as a pilot. Thankfully, that’s not the case with Egnatia Aviation, which has aligned their name with full transparency from the beginning.

While all of this may seem expensive and costs will quickly add up, it’s no secret that the financial gain and the prestige once qualified and in a secure pilot role can be especially attractive. While, the wages of pilots are not uniform, and vary widely based on several key factors, there are still above average globally. Below there are various aspects that play a crucial role in determining a pilot’s salary, highlighting the diversity in compensation across the aviation industry:

• The pilot’s level of experience and seniority.
• The category of the airline, distinguishing between regional and major carriers.
• The pilot’s rank within the airline’s hierarchy.
• The specific type of aircraft they are qualified to fly.
• The country in which the airline is headquartered, with distinctions often made between EU and non-EU countries.

 

But how much do pilots make? Read Our Salary Guide!

Additional appealing factors to keep in mind are job security and career growth, and in the current financial environment, these can be especially important and enhance the benefits of selecting pilot training.

There is some financial support on offer to aspiring pilots, too. Many flight schools offer scholarship programmes. For instance, Egnatia Aviation has a long-standing partnership with Aegean Airlines, Wizz Air, Olympic Air, and Iraqi Airways. These airlines are offering opportunities for sponsorships, under specific regulations.

Navigating the Fear of Failure and Future Employment

While aspiring pilots may feel that there are a myriad of challenges when it comes to learning how to become a pilot, flight schools are there to help. Egnatia Aviation has a unique approach to airline pilot training by providing a rigorous yet supportive training environment for cadets of all calibres.

Read the tips for a successful start in airline pilot training

Those selecting this flight academy will not only have access to highly skilled and experienced instructors and an array of courses to suit almost every need, but they also have some of the top facilities in Europe for a comprehensive, intensive and well-rounded approach to gaining qualifications. For example, cadets will be able to undertake training in a stunning location dedicated to pilot training at the privately owned Lydia Aerodrome, which has exclusive facilities, services and amenities.

Egnatia Aviation has an outstanding 95.7% employment rate for graduates within one year and has alumni flying in over 61 countries. With unique and exclusive ongoing partnerships with major airlines, including Wizz Air, Olympic Air, Aegean Airlines and Iraqi Airways, a percentage of pilots has guaranteed roles every year. It doesn’t stop here however, this flight school has approval from the EASA, UAE GCAA, Qatar CAA, and Hungarian CAA for ultimate peace of mind that aspiring pilots will be training with the best.

Flexible Training Paths to Suit Every Aspirant Pilot

With a specialisation in commercial pilot training, it adheres to airline standards and follows the correct procedures and systems expected in the industry. Pilot training can begin with, or be enhanced by, the following courses:

• Airline Pilot Integrated Preparation Program
• Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
• Private Pilot License (PPL)
• Instrument Rating (ME/IR)
• Multi-Engine Piston Rating (MEP)
• Night Rating
• ATPL Theory
• Hour Building
• Airline Pilot Standards Multi Crew Cooperation (APS MCC)
• Multi-Crew Co-Operation (MCC)
• Advanced UPRT Course
• PBN Course
• Various conversion courses

 

What training path should I choose? Learn more here

The all-in-one Airline Integrated Programme is incredibly popular, as it allows cadets to gain inclusive and intensive all-in-one training in 17 months. The programme was designed with the needs of the modern airlines in mind. It is also the preferred choice for sponsorship by the airline partners of Egnatia Aviation, and it is fully approved by EASA, UAE GCAA, Qatar CAA, and Hungarian CAA.

On the other hand, the modular courses allow for flexibility, and cadet can learn at their own pace and better align their training needs to their budgets.

Advancements in training technology, such as flight simulators, have transformed the pilot training environment and provide an unrivalled hands-on approach to learning that has broadened learning horizons. The cutting-edge facilities on offer at the previously mentioned Lydia Aerodrome are some of the most well-appointed available, and it is one of the most advanced training locations currently on offer.

Learn more about our courses

The Role of Mentorship in Airline Pilot Training

Egnatia Aviation certainly has fantastic courses and facilities, but its significant contribution to the aviation industry doesn’t stop there. Cadets will gain mentorship from highly experienced pilots and instructors, who will have a deeper understanding of the industry. These tutors have the unique ability to provide guidance and industry insights, as well as motivate them for a whole new level of support when navigating training and early career phases. This flight school encourages aspiring pilots to actively participate in aviation networking events, and offers access to professional networks for support and advice, not to mention building strong relationships between peers from different cultural backgrounds, who are facing the same challenges and have the same aspirations.

Take a sneak peek into the life of an airline pilot

Why settle for less? Choose Egnatia Aviation!

If you feel that becoming a pilot is in your future, time, commitment and dedication to your studies will be imperative. Egnatia Aviation is here to help you turn your aviation dreams into a reality and has everything you need to rise to the unique challenges of pilot training and elevate your experience. Why not explore the training programs on offer and take action for your own pilot training journey today?

Ready to become a pilot? Contact our mentors today to answer all of your questions