If you dream of becoming a professional or commercial pilot to explore the skies or prefer working on the ground to develop and maintain sophisticated aircraft, aviation offers diverse opportunities for everyone. Pursuing a degree from one of the world’s top pilot schools can be your gateway to achieving these aspirations. The average tuition fees for aviation schools range from $14,880 to $99,600 (INR 12.4L to INR 83L). The aviation industry is incredibly diverse, offering career paths from customer service roles to highly technical positions that keep the industry running smoothly. Whether you are aiming to fly high or work behind the scenes, this blog will guide you through the best pilot schools in the world and help you find the perfect match for your ambitions.
List Of Best Flying Schools in the World
While a college may hold regional or national accreditation, individual programs within the institution can also receive specialised accreditation from industry-specific accrediting bodies. For instance, many aviation programs are accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI), which ensures that these programs meet the rigorous standards required for the aviation industry. This dual layer of accreditation—both institutional and program-specific—helps students receive the highest quality education while preparing them for the specific demands of their chosen fields. Here are the best pilot schools in the world.
| Best Pilot Academy In The World | |||
| Rank | Pilot School | Location | Degrees Offered |
| 1 | Purdue University Aviation College | West Lafayette, Indiana, USA | Aeronautical Engineering Technology, Air Traffic Control, Aviation Management, Professional Flight Technology |
| 2 | University of North Dakota | Grand Forks, USA | Airport Administration, Aviation Management, Air Traffic Control, Aviation Technology Management, Master of Science in Aviation, PhD in Aerospace Sciences |
| 3 | Ohio State University Aviation College | USA | Undergraduate and Graduate Aviation Degree Programs |
| 4 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University College of Aviation | Daytona Beach, Florida, USA | Aeronautical Science, Aerospace Engineering, Global Security & Intelligence, Air Traffic Control, Business Administration |
| 5 | Western Michigan University Aviation College | USA | Aviation Management, Aviation Flight Science, Aviation Maintenance |
| 6 | Pan Am International Flying Academy | USA | Pilot Training, Air Traffic Control, Airline Crew Training, Aircraft Maintenance Training, Aircraft Dispatcher Training |
| 7 | Singapore Flying College | Singapore | CAAS Multi-Crew Pilot Licence, CAAS Commercial Pilot Licence, Australian Commercial Pilot Licence + MEIR, UAPL Training, ATPL Theory |
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1. Purdue University Aviation College
Purdue Aviation College is one of the best aerospace engineering colleges in the world located in West Lafayette Indiana, United States. This is where Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the moon, received his high school diploma. According to U.S. News & World Report, Purdue University’s aviation school is recognised as the “Cradle of Astronauts.” The Purdue University acceptance rate is just 58% meaning that it follows a selective admission criteria.
Degrees Offered: Students in several aeronautical degree programmes attend Purdue’s College of Technology. Aeronautical engineering technology, air traffic control, aviation management, and professional flight technology students are among those enrolled.
Tuition Fees:
- Undergraduate Courses: The tuition fees for undergraduate programs range from approximately $28,300 to $32,600 (INR 24.26 lakh to 27.94 lakh).
- Postgraduate Courses: For postgraduate programs, the fees vary between $14,460 to $55,720 (INR 12.4 lakh to 47.78 lakh).
2. University Of North Dakota
The University of North Dakota is another noteworthy aviation school located in Grand Forks, United States, that deserves mention while considering the best flight schools in the world. John D. Odegard owns the school. The University of North Dakota’s John Odegard School of Aerospace Studies has long been renowned as a breeding ground for top-tier aero-space professionals. This aviation college provides undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate degrees. Students enrolled in any of these programmes have the option of adding a minor or speciality certification.
- Degrees Offered: The John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences offers degrees in airport administration, aviation management, air traffic control, aviation technology management, and other fields. The University of North Dakota also provides a master of science in aviation and a PhD in aerospace sciences, thus making it one of the best aviation colleges in the world.
- Tuition Fees: Tuition fees for most programs start from $20,000 (approx. INR 16.2 lakh) per year.
3. Ohio State University Aviation College
Ohio State University is one of the best pilot schools in the world as well as in the USA. Ohio State University acceptance rate is 53% and an early acceptance rate of 59% approximately. This is one of the best aviation universities in the world, therefore, provides highly skilled undergraduate and graduate aviation degree programmes.
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate Aviation Degree Programs
- Tuition Fees: The annual tuition fee for the BS in Aviation Management is approximately $42,950. Over four years, this totals around $171,800.
- Additional costs may include application fees ($70) and other expenses related to flight training and materials.
4. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University College Of Aviation
This prominent aviation college, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, United States is often known as Harvard of the Skies. The university has produced more alumni than any other aviation university. The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University acceptance rate stands at just 68%. This is due to the fact that it is the oldest and biggest institution offering aviation studies.
- Degrees Offered: Aeronautical science, aeronautical and aerospace engineering, global security & intelligence, air traffic control, and business administration are just a few of the degree programmes available at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. ERAU is the only aviation college that offers a PhD degree.
- Tuition Fees: The approximate tuition fees for Undergraduate (UG) programs range from INR 36 Lakh to INR 48 Lakh (₹3,600,000 to ₹4,800,000). For Postgraduate (PG) programs, the fees range from INR 10 Lakh to INR 29 Lakh (₹1,000,000 to ₹2,900,000).
5. Western Michigan University Aviation College
Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation is regarded as one of the best in the United States. The institution has been in existence for 75 years and has established itself as a highly renowned and revered aviation college around the globe.
- Degrees Offered: Degree programmes in aviation management, aviation flight science, and aviation maintenance are available to students in the College of Aviation.
- Tuition Fees: Including tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses, the total estimated cost for an international student can be around $35,765 per year ; however, students from Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wisconsin pay a lower tuition rate.
6. Pan AM International Flying Academy
Pan Am International Flight Academy (PAIFA) is one of the aviation schools with a focus on educating airlines, pilots, and other aviation professionals from all over the world. The holding company for All Nippon Airlines currently owns it. The Greater Miami Aviation Association presented the Corporate Achievement Award to Pan Am International Flight Academy in 2017 in recognition of the company’s services to the aviation sector. The Denver office of the U.S. Commercial Services Division, a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, presented the Export Achievement Certificate to Pan Am International Flying Academy.
- Degrees Offered: The academy offers pilot training courses and apart from that it also provides students with the option of air traffic control training, airline crew training, aircraft maintenance training and aircraft dispatcher training.
- Tuition-Fees: Depending on eligibility, attending Pan Am International Flying Academy can cost as little as $18,000 or as much as $17,000, with a median price of $8,000.
7. Singapore Flying College
Established in 1988, this flying school in Singapore is renowned for providing both fundamental and advanced flight training to pilots working for the Singapore Airlines Group. The college’s training fleet consists of 16 Cessna C172 single-engine aircraft furnished with Garmin and five Cessna C172 single-engine aircraft based in Seletar. About 1,900 cadets who served for the Singapore Airlines Group are known to have gotten training at the college, which has been acknowledged as one of the greatest pilot schools in the world. It began accepting applications from self-sponsored people in 2006; as of right now, 30 of these applicants are working for reputable airlines.
- Degrees Offered: The primary goal of Singapore Flying College is to teach cadet pilots for the MPL and CPL in Singapore. The college offers CAAS Multi-crew Pilot Licence, CAAS Commercial Pilot Licence, Australian Commercial Pilot Licence + MEIR, UAPL Training, Multi-Engine Instrument Rating and ATPL Theory.
Note: These approximate figures may vary based on the university, course, and other factors. Always confirm the latest fee structure with the respective institution.
Eligibility Criteria To Enroll Into An Aviation Course
Aviation courses require candidates to meet specific eligibility criteria to ensure they possess the foundational knowledge, skills, and physical fitness necessary for a successful career in aviation. These criteria include educational qualifications, age limits, medical fitness standards, and language proficiency, among other requirements. Understanding these prerequisites is the first step toward embarking on a rewarding journey in the aviation industry.
| Criteria | Details |
| Educational Qualifications | – Class 12 (10+2) with a minimum aggregate of 50% in Physics, Mathematics, and English. |
| – Some programs accept a diploma in engineering or related fields. | |
| Age Requirement | – Minimum age: 17 years. |
| – Upper age limit (if applicable): Usually around 26 years. | |
| Medical Fitness | – Pass a Class 2 medical examination to start training. |
| – Obtain a Class 1 medical certificate for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). | |
| – 6/6 vision in one eye; correctable vision in the other eye. | |
| English Proficiency | – Proficiency in English is mandatory (the international language of aviation). |
| – May require passing an English language proficiency test. | |
| Entrance Exams and Interviews | – Some institutions require passing entrance exams (e.g., IGRUA entrance test). |
| – Aptitude tests or personal interviews may also be conducted. | |
| Additional Requirements | – Class II medical certificate from a DGCA-approved physician is necessary during flying hours. |
| – Registration at a DGCA-recognised flying club for practical training. |
Reasons To Get An Aviation Degree
A degree from one of the best flight academies in the world comes with a slew of professional and personal privileges. The following are five frequent reasons why students choose to attend the top flight schools –
- Professional Advancement: Pilots are required to complete professional flying training. A degree is the most reliable route to a job in aviation.
- Specialised Skills: An aviation curriculum prepares you for a career as a pilot by teaching you the technical skills and expertise you’ll need. Students gain knowledge of aircraft operation, aviation legislation, and climatic parameters.
- Higher Salary Potential: A Bachelor’s degree in aviation provides advanced abilities that allow graduates to pursue a wider range of occupations with better pay prospects. More advanced degrees, on average, result in higher average salaries.
- Networking Opportunities: Many aviation programmes collaborate with major airlines and other businesses in the industry. Enrolling in the school can provide students with a bigger professional network and more job chances once they graduate.
- Licensure & Certification: Aviation programmes train students for a variety of licences and certifications that are necessary for pilot professions. Advanced certification might also help you get a better job.
Choosing the right pilot school is a crucial step toward a rewarding career in aviation. With a range of prestigious institutions offering world-class training and diverse degree programmes, aspiring pilots have the opportunity to acquire specialised skills, advanced certifications, and valuable industry connections. Carefully consider your career goals, budget, and the unique offerings of each institution to find the best fit for your aspirations.
FAQs
Which country is best for pilot study?
The USA, UK, China, Australia, and Canada offer some of the best pilot academies in the world, with the USA leading due to its advanced training infrastructure and globally recognised certifications.
Which school is best for pilots in the world?
Some of the best aviation schools in the world include CAE Oxford Aviation Academy, CTC Wings (Europe), Flight Safety Academy (USA), Pan Am International Flying Academy, and Singapore Flying College, renowned for their advanced training programs and global industry recognition.
What factors should I consider when choosing a pilot school?
When choosing a pilot school, consider factors like accreditation, fleet quality, instructor experience, cost, and career support to ensure the program aligns with your goals. Additionally, evaluate the school’s location, weather conditions, safety record, and reputation within the aviation industry.
What qualifications do I need to enrol in a pilot training institute?
To enrol in a pilot training institute, you need to have completed Class 12 (10+2) with at least 50% in Physics, Mathematics, and English, be at least 17 years old, and pass a Class 2 medical examination with 6/6 vision in one eye (correctable in the other). Proficiency in English is mandatory, and some programs may require entrance exams or interviews.
How long is a pilot study?
A pilot study typically takes 3 to 4 years, which is the time required to complete a Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight.
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