Information for parents

Choosing a flight school is key. We support your child’s aviation dreams with rigorous training, developing the competencies and mindset required to unlock a world of career opportunities.

Three cadets laughing on Angoulême's airport tarmac with a Cirrus SR20 Airbus Flight Academy aircraft in the background

Supporting your child’s path to the skies

NURTURING FUTURE PILOTS

At Airbus Flight Academy, we know that behind every aspiring pilot is a family who believes in their dreams. We take this responsibility seriously, focusing on enhancing career readiness at every stage of their journey. With over 50 years of expertise, we deliver a pilot training programme designed to build core competencies, shaping students into operational professionals.

Through a comprehensive and people-centric approach, small-group learning and tailored guidance, we create a collaborative environment in which students feel supported and parents feel reassured.

An unforgettable and tailored path to pilot career

YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE

We understand the importance of trust, structure and peace of mind. That’s why we provide a comprehensive, well-structured path, with transparent flight school costs and a secure training environment designed to develop both technical competencies and personal growth. Your child’s future in aviation begins here – backed by the expertise and guidance of Airbus.

The Airbus legacy of excellence

With over 50 years of Airbus experience, our pilot training programme blends theory and real-world experience, ensuring students – cadets – are fully prepared for airline careers.

Expertise & safety first

Safety is our top priority: we train our cadets on modern aircraft and advanced devices with highly qualified, Airbus-standardised instructors fostering the highest standards.

A launchpad to succeed

Through engaging and structured career pathways, our graduates are ready for their future in aviation, ready to pursue opportunities worldwide.

Two cadets on the wings of an Airbus Flight Academy aircraft in the sun, preparing to go in the aircraft

From selection to airline-ready pilot

OUR PROGRAMME AT A GLANCE

Airbus Flight Academy offers industry-leading pilot training to prepare your child for a confident takeoff.

Our passionate experts, Airbus-standardised instructors provide mentorship in small groups.

Through personalised guidance, structured progress tracking and a strong alumni network, we accompany cadets train and prepare for career opportunities with confidence.

Our airline-ready programme develops the key pilot competencies demanded by airlines, using innovative teaching approaches.

In a vibrant and supportive environment, our multicultural, inclusive community fosters growth while instilling the Airbus values of respect, solidarity, teamwork, integrity and commitment to excellence.

Explore our training programme
An instructor is showing the cockpit to a cadet inside a Cirrus SR20 AFA aircraft in Airbus Flight Academy Europe campus

Your step-by-step path to a pilot career

TRAINING TIMELINE

Over two years, cadets progress through a streamlined and transformative pathway that blends theoretical training with real-world flight experience. Starting from selection, each step builds the essential competencies and mindset for a successful aviation career.

  1. Before training, candidates are guided through the selection process, online then onsite, with care and transparency. Whether selected or not, each receives valuable feedback to support future applications – at Airbus or elsewhere.

  2. The Core phase (approx. 8 weeks) is a first exposure to both flight training (18 hours) and theory for a mutual commitment to officially start our journey together. 

  3. The Airline Transport Pilot Licence – ATPL theory (approx. 33 weeks) is an interactive training, always led by instructors, covering aviation fundamentals such as meteorology, navigation or regulations… to prepare cadets for pilot theoretical exams.

  4. The practical experience, Basic phase (approx. 36 weeks) shifts from single to multi-engine aircraft, refining competencies through simulator training and real flights to progressively prepare for airline operations.

  5. The final step, Jet orientation course and Multi-crew cooperation (approx. 4 weeks) trains cadets to seamlessly transition from light aircraft to jet operations (such as A320), and learn to operate as part of a professional flight crew.

 

Our programme

Cleared for entry: your launchpad to pilot training

ADMISSION PROCESS

Beyond competencies: ensuring the potential to succeed

Beyond crucial attributes such as personality, aptitude and English proficiency, our goal is to assess applicants' ability to confidently carry out our programme, ultimately guaranteeing a successful start to their aviation career.

Cadet interacting with an instructor during an theoretical ATPL course in an Airbus Flight Academy Europe classroom

An assessment designed for future airline pilots

We don’t expect prior experience but passion, potential and commitment. Our rigorous admission process identifies future airline professionals, the flight leaders of tomorrow.

Smiling cadet on the wing of a Cirrus SR20 Airbus Flight Academy aircraft on sunny Angoulême's airport tarmac

Growing Airbus Flight Academy network

OUR CAMPUSES

Our school partners are selected and continuously trained to uphold the highest standards in pilot training. As our network expands, we remain committed to setting up pilots for success, no matter where they train.

Global standards, local expertise

Each partner follows a unified policy, Airbus flight training reference delivering the same high-quality instruction, efficiency and safety standards at every location.

State-of-the-art facilities

Modern aircraft, advanced simulators and fully-equipped campuses create a supportive environment built for learning, growth and success.

Expanding career pathways

With a growing global network, Airbus ensures every cadet benefits from top-tier training, career preparation and strong industry connections.

Your questions answered

FAQ FOR PARENTS

Find information about flight school details, costs, safety or how to support aspiring pilots on their journey.

How much does it cost to become a pilot?

The cost of pilot training depends on the programme and location. At Airbus Flight Academy, tuition reflects a variety of aspects especially designed to drive each cadet progress and readiness for a professional aviation career, including top-tier instruction, modern aircraft and simulators provided throughout the course. It includes individual supervision, welcome kits, instructor-led classroom, flight hours using the latest pedagogical techniques and optimised preparation for required exams and training milestones. For specific details and personalised guidance – including cost-related questions – our local teams are available to support you.

What should parents know about pilot training?

Pilot training is a structured and intensive programme that combines theoretical learning with hands-on flight experience. Airbus Flight Academy follows a comprehensive training approach, ensuring cadets develop both technical and behavioural competencies at a progressive pace. Safety, discipline and teamwork are at the core of the training, shaping cadets into future flight leaders. Parents can trust that their child is learning in a secure and world-class environment. Discover why choose us here.

How can families support aspiring pilots during training?

Family support plays a crucial role in a cadet’s success. Encouraging resilience, time management and a positive mindset helps aspiring pilots navigate the challenges of training. Understanding the rigorous schedule and providing emotional support can make a difference. Airbus Flight Academy also offers mentorship and guidance, and fosters a speak-up culture, ensuring cadets have the tools they need to stay motivated and focused.

What resources are available for supporting aspiring pilots?

Airbus Flight Academy provides a supportive and vibrant learning environment, including experienced instructors, structured mentorship, innovative individual-centric training methods and a global alumni network. Families can also support career preparation, helping cadets transition smoothly from training to employment. A strong support system, both at home and during training, is key to a cadet’s success.

What are the key success tips for cadets in pilot training?

Success in pilot training requires discipline, adaptability, humility, resilience and a strong mindset. Cadets should focus on time management, teamwork and continuous learning to develop both technical and leadership abilities. Staying proactive, embracing challenges, maintaining a passion for aviation are crucial for excelling in training and securing future opportunities.

  • Three cadets laughing on Angoulême's airport tarmac with a Cirrus SR20 Airbus Flight Academy aircraft in the background

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