For the first time, the Estonian Aviation Academy has opened admissions to two paid international curricula. Secondary education and excellent English language skills are prerequisites for applying to enrol in the Commercial Air Transport Pilot and Commercial Aviation Management curricula. Successful completion of the studies grants a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering.
The Commercial Air Transport Pilot curriculum has two versions, meaning that the curriculum can be completed in two ways – in one or three years. The target group of the one-year curriculum is pilots with a professional pilot’s license who lack higher education that would allow them to advance in their careers. In a single year, students acquire higher education to supplement their pilot competence. “Pilots have the chance to take a big leap forward in just one year by obtaining higher education that will enable them to move forward in aviation,” said Meelis Koovit, head of the curriculum and senior pilot. The added value is the opportunity to study alongside work, as learning takes place online.
The second target group is those who dream of a pilot’s license and higher education. This will take them three years. While professional pilots have previously completed specialist training, which shortens the study time, beginners need to start from scratch. Learning takes place on-site at the Academy.
Studies for the Commercial Aviation Management curriculum also take place on-site at the Academy and last three years. The curriculum should be of interest to anyone who sees their future as a specialist or manager in, for example, airline companies, airports, companies providing ground handling or air traffic control services, maintenance organisations, and tourism companies or public authorities related to aviation. Courses are also largely carried out by professionals working in aviation, which allows students to make contacts early on.
A significant common element between two new curricula is the International Air Transport Association (IATA) courses, which the Academy has the exclusive right to offer in Estonia as an IATA-authorised training organisation.
Kristo Reinsalu, the head of the Estonian Aviation Cluster, sees the international aviation training offered in Estonia as an extremely positive measure in meeting the demand for labour. He points out that there is already a shortage of qualified aviation experts, especially in the Baltic region, considering recent developments among the local airlines. Reinsalu adds that the curricula provide a broader benefit to the entire country because the export of high-quality educational services raises our international reputation and renown in all aspects.
Admissions to the English-language curricula opened on 3 January 2022 and close on 1 May 2022. Application requirements and information on studies can be found on the website of the Estonian Aviation Academy.
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