A lot of people are interested in becoming a pilot for various reasons. However, it is unfortunate that several folks aren’t able to actualize their dreams due to limitations of resources. However, if you have been looking around for free pilot training in the country, this can be pretty helpful to you.
List of Free pilot training in South Africa include South African Civil Aviation Authority bursary, iFly Aviation Bursary, TETA Bursary, ATNS AIMO Bursary, The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality Bursary and Vukani Aviation Bursary.
6 Free Pilot Training In South Africa
1. South African Civil Aviation Authority bursary
You should look towards this direction to get free pilot training in South Africa. Established in 1998, it is the public entity responsible for civil aviation oversight, and many passionate flying enthusiasts in the country are aware of what it stands for.
SACAA offers bursaries to support individuals pursuing careers in the aviation industry. These bursaries aim to promote skill development and diversity within the sector. SACAA’s bursary program covers various fields such as piloting, engineering, air traffic control, and more.
The bursaries provide financial assistance for tuition, books, and other related expenses. By investing in the education of aspiring aviation professionals, SACAA contributes to the growth and sustainability of the aviation industry in South Africa, ensuring a well-trained workforce to meet the demands of the dynamic field of civil aviation.
Minimum requirements:
a. You must be a citizen of South Africa
b. You must have a completed Matric certificate or currently in Matric
c. It must be obvious that you need financial assistance
d. You must be studying or intend on studying within one of the aforementioned fields of study
e. You must have a high academic record
f. Minimum academic result of level 5 for English and level 6 for Mathematics and Physical Science (Aeronautical Engineering students). Minimum result of level 5 for Mathematics, Physical Science and English (Aircraft Maintenance Engineering students) Minimum result of level 5 for Mathematics, Physical Science and English (Pilot Training students)
2. Vukani Aviation bursary
The Vukani Aviation bursary is another channel to get free pilot training in the country. This organization is also known for offering bursaries to empower individuals seeking to pursue careers in the aviation industry. Founded to foster skills development and inclusivity, Vukani Aviation’s bursary program supports various disciplines within aviation, including piloting, engineering, aviation management, and more.
Vukani Aviation recognizes the financial barriers that often deter talented individuals from entering the field and strives to provide financial aid for tuition, study materials, and other associated costs. Its commitment to advancing diversity in aviation is noteworthy, as it aims to create opportunities for disadvantaged folks to access quality education and training in the industry.
By providing these bursaries, Vukani Aviation plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals in South Africa, contributing to the industry’s growth and sustainability while fostering a more inclusive and representative workforce.
3. iFly Aviation Bursary
Here is another good way to make your dreams a reality even if you don’t have enough resources. If you are going for a career in the field of aviation, aircraft electronics and transportation technology, then you may want to pay close attention to iFly Aviation.
iFly Aviation extends bursaries to individuals with a passion for aviation and a desire to excel in related disciplines. This initiative opens doors for those aspiring to forge careers in aviation, aircraft electronics, and transportation technology. By offering financial support through its bursary program, iFly Aviation helps alleviate the financial burdens often associated with pursuing education and training in these specialized fields.
The iFly Aviation bursary is a stepping stone for ambitious individuals, enabling them to access quality education, essential resources, and valuable learning experiences. This support not only fosters the growth of skilled professionals but also contributes to the overall advancement of the aviation industry. iFly Aviation’s commitment to nurturing talent underscores its dedication to fostering innovation and expertise within the aviation domain.
Minimum requirements
a. You must be a citizen of South Africa
b. You will need a certified copy of your ID
c. You must be between 18 to 35 years old
d. You must have a grade 12/matric certificate or higher
4. TETA Bursary
Another free pilot training in South Africa is The Transport Education Training Authority Bursary (also known as TETA), one of the country’s 21 SETAs that offers training and skills development in various economic sectors, especially the transport sector.
With areas like rail, taxi, road freight, freight handling, road passenger maritime and most importantly, aerospace, this is a great opportunity to study your passion.
Minimum requirements:
a. You must be a citizen of South Africa
b. You must be between 18 and 35 years old
c. You must be currently unemployed
d. You must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric
e. You must have passed with a minimum overall average of 50% in the previous year’s academic year
f. Commercial Pilot License applicants must have a Private Pilot License (PPL)
g. Instructor’s or Instrument Rating applicants must have a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
h. ATPL applicants must have a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Instructor’s and Instrument rating
i. Your total household income should not be more than R350 000 per annum
5. The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality bursary
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality offers bursaries aimed at empowering students within its jurisdiction to pursue higher education. These bursaries encompass a wide range of fields, including aviation, engineering, medicine, and more. By providing financial assistance, the municipality seeks to enable talented individuals, who might otherwise face financial barriers, to access quality education and training.
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality bursary program not only supports academic pursuits but also contributes to the growth and development of the local workforce. By investing in education and skill development, the municipality aims to create a pool of skilled professionals who can contribute to the region’s progress and prosperity.
Minimum requirements:
a. You must either be a citizen of South Africa or a South African permanent resident
b. You must be 35 years old or younger
c. You must be living within Ekurhuleni
d. You must be currently studying or plan to study full-time (undergraduate only)
e. Your total household income should be less than R600 000 per annum
Finally, more priority will be accorded to students at public tertiary institutions.
6. ATNS AIMO bursary
The ATNS AIMO bursary is designed to assist prospective aviation students enrolled at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy (ATA) located in Bonaero Park. This specific program is crafted for folks aspiring to become Aeronautical Information Management Officers (AIMOs).
The curriculum of the program encompasses a comprehensive array of subjects, including flight planning, dynamic data management, communications, NOTAM, integrated aeronautical information packages, aeronautical flight procedural design and charting, as well as aeronautical surveying. The bursary program not only provides financial support but also facilitates the development of essential skills and knowledge required for a successful career in the aviation industry, specifically in the role of an AIMO.
Minimum requirements
a. You must be a citizen of South Africa
b. Minimum 18 years old
c. Grade 12 with Maths and English (HG D or SG C or level 4 upwards)
d. You must be medically fit
Cheapest Flying School In South Africa
If you are looking for the cheapest flying school in South Africa, it is necessary to note that, generally, aviation schools are not cheap, for various factors. Nevertheless, some of the reasonable flight schools with reasonable fees include:
1. Cape Town Flight Training Centre: Located at Cape Town International Airport, this school has been known for its competitive pricing.
2. Lanseria Flight Centre: Situated at Lanseria International Airport, they have been recognized for offering cost-effective training programs.
3. 44 Air School: With locations in Port Alfred and George, they have been known to provide reasonably priced training options.
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In Conclusion
You can take advantage of any of the various available free pilot training in South Africa to fulfil your dreams in the aviation sector.