Are you passionate about flying or working behind the scenes in aviation operations? Whether you dream of sitting in the cockpit or helping pilots plan safe flights from the ground, starting with the right aviation course is your first step into this thrilling industry.
In this blog post, we’ll explain in plain language, the best aviation courses for aspiring pilots and airline dispatchers. You’ll learn what each course covers, how to choose the right one, and how these careers compare. This guide is crafted for beginners, students, career changers, and aviation enthusiasts. Let’s dive into the sky-high world of aviation training.
Why Choose a Career in Aviation?
Aviation careers offer adventure, global exposure, and a sense of purpose. Pilots fly commercial jets, private aircraft, or cargo planes. Dispatchers work from the ground, ensuring flight safety and efficiency through planning and coordination.
These careers are:
- High in demand (especially in growing regions like Africa and Asia)
- Well-paid with steady career growth
- Globally recognized, allowing international mobility
- Prestigious and respected in the travel and transport sectors.
Courses for Aspiring Pilots
1. Private Pilot License (PPL)
What it is: The PPL is the foundation course for all pilots. It allows you to fly small aircraft non-commercially.
Duration: 2–6 months (full-time)
Requirements:
- Must be 17+ years old
- Medical fitness certificate
- Basic education (typically high school level)
Includes:
- Ground school (theory of flight, navigation, weather, etc.)
- Minimum 40 hours of flight time (varies by country)
- Written and practical exams
2. Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
What it is: This license allows you to fly professionally and earn a salary.
Duration: 12–18 months
Requirements:
- PPL license
- Minimum age: 18
- Flight hours: Usually 150–200 total hours
- Class 1 medical certificate
Includes:
- Advanced flight training
- Instrument flying (IFR)
- Night flying
- Multi-engine flying (optional)
Career Path: Airline pilot, charter pilot, cargo pilot.
3. Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)
What it is: The highest level of pilot certification, required to be a captain in commercial airlines.
Duration: Depends on experience and training format
Requirements:
- CPL
- Minimum 1,500 flight hours (in many countries)
- Exams on complex aircraft systems, regulations, and decision-making
Best for: Pilots aiming for airline captain or international routes.
Courses for Aspiring Flight Dispatchers
1. Flight Dispatcher Certificate Course
What it is: A formal course that prepares students to become certified airline dispatchers (also called flight operations officers).
Duration: 5–8 weeks (full-time) or 3–6 months (part-time)
Requirements:
- Must be at least 21 years old (in many countries)
- Good English proficiency
- High school diploma or equivalent
Subjects Covered:
- Meteorology
- Aircraft systems
- Flight planning
- Air law and regulations
- Emergency procedures
- Weight and balance calculations
Certification:
- Must pass a written and/or oral exam (such as FAA’s ADX in the U.S.)
- Licenses vary by country: FAA (U.S.), EASA (Europe), NCAA (Nigeria)
2. Advanced Flight Planning and Dispatch Software Training
Many dispatch courses now include training on software like:
- Jeppesen FliteDeck
- Lido Flight Planning System
- Sabre Dispatch Manager
These are valuable for working in airline operations centers and make you more employable.
3. Aviation Management or Operations Degree
Optional but beneficial, especially if you’re aiming for management or coordination roles.
Courses Include:
- Airline scheduling
- Airport operations
- Aviation safety
- Regulatory compliance
- Crew resource management
Offered by: Universities with aviation programs or polytechnics with aviation departments.
| Institution | Location | Courses Offered |
|---|---|---|
| CAE Aviation Academy | Global (incl. Europe, Asia, Africa) | CPL, ATPL, Integrated |
| L3Harris Airline Academy | U.K., U.S., Portugal | CPL, ATPL |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | U.S., Online | Dispatcher, Aviation Science |
| Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) | Zaria, Nigeria | PPL, CPL, Dispatcher |
| Ethiopian Aviation Academy | Addis Ababa | Pilot & Dispatcher Training |
| Jeppesen Academy | Online/Global | Flight Dispatch Certification |
Cost of Training: Pilot vs Dispatcher
| Training Type | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| PPL | $7,000 – $15,000 |
| CPL (including PPL) | $35,000 – $70,000 |
| Integrated ATPL | $70,000 – $130,000 |
| Dispatcher Certificate | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Aviation Management Degree | $10,000 – $30,000 (varies by country) |
Tip: Look for scholarships, cadet programs, or government-backed loans.
How To Choose the Best Aviation Course
Ask yourself:
- Do I want to fly or work on the ground?
- Can I afford full-time training or do I need a part-time option?
- Do I want a quick entry into the industry or a long-term academic path?
- What’s my learning style, hands-on or classroom-based?
Career Outlook: Pilot vs Dispatcher
| Role | Job Environment | Salary Range | Travel Involved | Stress Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pilot | Cockpit, airport-based | $70,000 – $250,000+ | High | High during flight |
| Dispatcher | Operations center, office-based | $40,000 – $100,000+ | Low | High during planning |
Both are essential. The pilot executes the flight; the dispatcher plans and supports it. Together, they ensure safety and punctuality.
Final Tips for Aspiring Aviators
- Start with research: Know your country’s aviation rules and licensing body.
- Take discovery flights or attend open days at aviation schools.
- Talk to professionals—pilots, instructors, and dispatchers.
- Check school credentials: Make sure the program is recognized by aviation authorities.
- Plan your finances: Aviation training can be expensive but worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I become a pilot without a degree?
Yes! Many airlines don’t require a university degree, just the proper licenses and experience.
Do I need to know physics or math?
Basic math is important, especially for navigation and calculations. Physics helps, but it’s not mandatory for most courses.
Can I work internationally with my license?
Yes, but you may need to convert your license depending on the country. For example, an FAA license can be converted to EASA or NCAA standards.
Is dispatch a good career?
Yes! It’s a stable and critical role in aviation. Some dispatchers even move into airline management or training positions.
