Making the correct career decision in aviation is essential, particularly if you want to study overseas and experience different cultures. If you aim to enter this dynamic field, selecting the top pilot training institute is critical to shaping your future success.
In this guide, we will talk about the best country for pilot training, Singapore flying college fees for Indian students, the best country for pilot training, the best flying school in the world and much more.
Top 10 Best Flying Schools in the World
Aspiring pilots seek outstanding instruction and training to start their journey into the skies. An effective aviation career largely depends on selecting the top flying schools worldwide.
The world hosts a multitude of renowned flight training institutions known for their excellence in instruction, modern facilities, safety standards, and industry recognition.
Choose your dream country
UK
USA
Germany
Australia
Ireland
Canada
UAE
France
Sweden
Italy
Other
When do you want to study abroad?
What's your highest level of education?
Select you current city
How Leap will help you
Personalised University Shortlist
Express Applications with Quicker Admits
End-to-End Application Support
Let’s look at some of the best flying schools in the world:
| Rank | Flying Schools | Country | Highlights for Indian Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CAE Global Academy | Canada / Global | Cadet programs with IndiGo, Emirates; DGCA-compatible training in India (Gondia); strong placement rates. |
| 2 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | USA | Elite global brand, CPT/OPT work rights, FAA license convertible to DGCA, degree + flight training option. |
| 3 | University of North Dakota (UND) | USA | FAA-accredited, affordable compared to private USA schools, excellent placement, large fleet. |
| 4 | Flight Training Adelaide (FTA) | Australia | Airline-preferred (Qantas, SIA), CASA license easily convertible to DGCA, high Indian student intake. |
| 5 | Air New Zealand Aviation Institute | New Zealand | Safe, cost-effective, DGCA-convertible, work visa post-study, strong regional airline pipeline. |
| 6 | Oxford Aviation Academy (CAE Oxford) | UK | EASA license with global scope, high-end training facilities, part of CAE airline placement network. |
| 7 | Lufthansa Aviation Training (LAT) | Germany | Lufthansa-backed, EASA-compliant, access to European aviation sector, DGCA conversion feasible. |
| 8 | Singapore Flying College (SFC) | Singapore | SIA cadet program reputation, rigorous ICAO-standard training, proximity to India. |
| 9 | Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (IGIA) | India | Low-cost DGCA training, strong prep for Indian airline job assessments, modern aircraft. |
| 10 | ENAC - Ecole Nationale de l’Aviation Civile | France | Best for aviation engineering/ATC aspirants; EASA license; low tuition for non-flight roles. |
In-Depth Overview of Best Pilot Training Institutes in the World
1. CAE Global Academy - Canada / Global
- Programs Offered: Integrated ATPL, MPL, Cadet Programs
- Estimated Fees (INR): ₹45-55 Lakhs (India), ₹70-85 Lakhs (Canada/USA)
- Airline Partnerships: IndiGo Cadet Program, Emirates, SpiceJet, AirAsia, easyJet
- License Type: FAA / EASA / DGCA / CASA
- Why It’s Great:
- Offers cadet training in India (Gondia) under DGCA
- Global presence lets students transfer campuses
- Strong placement assistance through CAE’s airline network
2. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - USA
- Programs Offered: BSc in Aeronautical Science, ATPL, CFI/CFII
- Estimated Fees (INR): ₹80-90 Lakhs (includes flight + tuition)
- Airline Partnerships: Delta, NASA, Boeing (not cadet-based)
- License Type: FAA
- Why It’s Great:
- Globally #1 in aviation education
- FAA license easily convertible to DGCA
- Optional CPT/OPT work permits for job exposure
3. University of North Dakota (UND) - USA
- Programs Offered: BSc in Commercial Aviation, UAS Ops
- Estimated Fees (INR): ₹75-85 Lakhs (flight + tuition)
- Airline Partnerships: Delta Propel, United Aviate
- License Type: FAA
- Why It’s Great:
- Public university with lower tuition than private schools
- FAA to DGCA conversion well-supported
- High placement in regional US carriers
4. Flight Training Adelaide (FTA) - Australia
- Programs Offered: CPL, ATPL, MPL, Instructor Ratings
- Estimated Fees (INR): ₹50-60 Lakhs
- Airline Partnerships: QantasLink, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific
- License Type: CASA (DGCA-convertible)
- Why It’s Great:
- Top destination for Indian MPL cadets
- DGCA conversion support
- Airline-preferred school with full-time job pathways
5. Air New Zealand Aviation Institute - New Zealand
- Programs Offered: CPL, Aeronautical Engineering, Pilot Licenses
- Estimated Fees (INR): ₹40-48 Lakhs
- Airline Partnerships: Air New Zealand, Jetstar, Virgin Australia
- License Type: NZCAA (ICAO-compliant)
- Why It’s Great:
- PR-friendly country with safe training environment
- Lower costs than USA/UK
- High quality of life and DGCA conversion possible
6. Oxford Aviation Academy (CAE Oxford) - UK
- Programs Offered: Integrated ATPL, MPL
- Estimated Fees (INR): ₹80-95 Lakhs
- Airline Partnerships: British Airways, easyJet, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines
- License Type: EASA
- Why It’s Great:
- High-end facilities under CAE umbrella
- EASA license valid in Europe + convertible to DGCA
- Global airline placement network
7. Lufthansa Aviation Training (LAT) - Germany
- Programs Offered: ATPL, MCC, Type Rating
- Estimated Fees (INR): ₹65-80 Lakhs
- Airline Partnerships: Lufthansa, SWISS, Eurowings, Austrian Airlines
- License Type: EASA
- Why It’s Great:
- Lufthansa Group-backed with cadet options
- European job pipeline
- DGCA conversion supported
8. Singapore Flying College (SFC) - Singapore
- Programs Offered: CPL, ATPL (SIA Cadet Preferred)
- Estimated Fees (INR): ₹40-70 Lakhs
- Airline Partnerships: Singapore Airlines, Scoot
- License Type: CAAS (ICAO-compliant)
- Why It’s Great:
- Top Asian cadet training hub
- Disciplined structure aligned with Indian DGCA
- Proximity + regional hiring advantage
9. Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (IGIA) - India
- Programs Offered: CPL, Type Rating, Cabin Crew Training
- Estimated Fees (INR): ₹22-28 Lakhs
- Airline Partnerships: IndiGo, Air India Express, regional carriers
- License Type: DGCA
- Why It’s Great:
- Extremely cost-effective
- No conversion required
- Prepares students for Indian airline assessments
10. ENAC - Ecole Nationale de l’Aviation Civile - France
- Programs Offered: Masters in Aerospace Systems, Flight Ops, ATC
- Estimated Fees (INR): ₹20-25 Lakhs (tuition only; flying extra)
- Airline Partnerships: Air France, Airbus, French ATC
- License Type: EASA
- Why It’s Great:
- Best for non-flying aviation roles (engineering, ATC)
- Low tuition for top-ranked institution
- EASA license & European career acces
Note on Fees: Estimates are based on 2025 data from official school websites and brochures. Actual costs may vary. Please confirm with the institution for the latest details.
Eligibility Criteria for the Best Flying Schools in the World
The eligibility criteria for admission to aviation programs vary depending on the course and institution.
However, some general requirements include:
- For undergraduate programs, candidates must have completed their high school education or equivalent with a minimum of 50% marks.
- For postgraduate programs, candidates must have completed their bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum of 50% marks.
- You must have a valid score in entrance exams like the SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, or other equivalent exams.
- English language proficiency is a must for international students, and they must submit exam scores like the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.
- Candidates must meet the medical requirements for aviation, which include minimum physical and mental fitness levels.
- Some courses may require prior flying experience, pilot licenses, or specific certifications.
What are the Different Aviation programmes?
The aviation industry is a vast and diverse field that offers a range of professions, each requiring specialised skills and knowledge.
Aviation programs offered by educational institutions cater to various career paths within this dynamic industry.
These programs prepare individuals for multifaceted roles, from piloting aircraft to managing airline operations, designing cutting-edge aircraft, and ensuring aviation safety.
Bachelor’s aviation programmes
| Top Courses | Top Universities |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Aviation | University of New South Wales (UNSW) |
| Bachelor of Science in Aviation Technology | University of Southern California (USC) |
| Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
| Bachelor of Aeronautical Science | University of Cambridge |
Master’s aviation programmes
| Top Courses | Top Universities |
|---|---|
| MSc Aerospace Management | University of Leeds |
| Master of Business Administration in Aviation | Purdue University |
| Master of Science in Aviation | University of North Dakota |
| Master in Aviation Industry Management and Operations | The University of Southern California (USC) |
Scholarships at the Best Flying Schools in the World
Scholarships can be a great way to support aspiring pilots pursuing an aviation career. With the high cost of training and flight hours, scholarships can make this career path more accessible for talented and motivated individuals.
By providing financial support, scholarships can help ensure that talented individuals have the opportunity to pursue their dreams and contribute to the aviation industry.
The USA
Several options are available if you seek a scholarship for pilot training in the USA, it is also one of the best country for pilot training.
| Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Flight Training Scholarship: AOPA offers scholarships of up to INR 83 thousand to aspiring pilots who are members of AOPA and have completed at least one solo flight |
| The Ninety-Nines Amelia Earhart Memorial Scholarship: The Ninety-Nines is an international organisation of women pilots. The Amelia Earhart Memorial Scholarship is awarded to women who want to pursue a career in aviation, including pilot training. The scholarship is worth up to INR 83 thousand. |
The UK
The UK is known as best country for pilot training, and there are various scholarships available in the UK for pilot training.
| Air League Scholarship: The Air League offers various types of scholarships for pilot training, including flight training scholarships for those aged between 18 and 35 |
| Royal Air Force Charitable Trust: The trust offers pilot training scholarships to young people interested in an aviation career. |
Canada
Canada is known for its excellent aviation training programs, including pilot training. If you want to pursue pilot training in Canada but are concerned about the costs, you should explore scholarship opportunities.
| Air Cadet League of Canada:The Air Cadet League of Canada offers several scholarships for cadets pursuing aviation careers. The scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership skills, and community involvement. |
| Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA):COPA offers scholarships to help young pilots achieve their dream of becoming licensed pilots. The scholarships are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents pursuing private pilot’s licenses. |
Australia
Australia is home to some of the best pilot training institutes in the world.
| The Royal Aero Club of Western Australia (RACWA) Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to students pursuing an aviation career and enrolled in a pilot training program. It covers the costs of flight training, accommodation, and other associated fees. |
| The Australian Women Pilots’ Association (AWPA) Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to female students pursuing an aviation career and enrolling in a pilot training program. It covers the costs of flight training, accommodation, and other associated fees. |
France
Europe is home to some of the best flying schools in the world, including schools that offer pilot training programs. If you are interested in pursuing pilot training in Europe but are concerned about the costs, you may be interested in exploring scholarship opportunities.
| The European Flight Training Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to students pursuing an aviation career and enrolled in a European pilot training program. It covers the costs of flight training, accommodation, and other associated fees. |
| The BAA Training Scholarship: BAA Training offers scholarships to students pursuing an aviation career and enrolled in a European pilot training program. The scholarship covers the costs of flight training, accommodation, and other associated fees. |
Top 5 Job Roles in the Aviation Industry
The aviation industry is a vast and diverse field that offers a range of professions, each requiring specialised skills and knowledge.
These programs prepare individuals for multifaceted roles, from piloting aircraft to managing airline operations, designing cutting-edge aircraft, and ensuring aviation safety. This diversity of job roles attracts professionals with varying expertise and interests, making the aviation industry an exciting and dynamic field.
Check the list of top 5 job roles along with highest paying countries
| Job role | Country | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilot | USA | INR 21L (USD 25K) |
| Aircraft Maintenance Engineer | Canada | INR 43L (CAD 69K) |
| Aviation Manager | UK | INR 51L (GBP 82K) |
| Air Traffic Controller | Australia | INR 94L (AUD 167K) |
| Aerospace Engineer | France | INR 37L (EUR 39K) |
Top Reasons to Study Aviation from the Best Flying School in World
Studying aviation at one of the world’s best flying schools can provide unparalleled training and opportunities, making succeeding in a competitive industry easier. With advanced technology, experienced instructors, and industry partnerships, top schools offer comprehensive programs that shape successful careers in aviation.
Here are the top reasons to study aviation from the best flying schools:
- World-class training and facilities: The top flying schools have the latest simulators, aircraft, and technology, offering students hands-on experience that meets global industry standards.
- High employment rates: Boeing’s 2024 Pilot Outlook shows a projected demand for 674,000 new pilots globally over the next twenty years.
- Industry connections: Leading flying schools have partnerships with major airlines, making it easier for graduates to secure jobs immediately after completing their courses.
- Global recognition and certification: Graduating from a top school ensures your qualifications are recognised worldwide, opening doors to international aviation careers.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Pilots
- Exciting and Rewarding Career: Aviation offers a thrilling and fulfilling professional path.
- Choosing the Right Institute is Key: Selecting the right pilot training school is critical to success.
- Numerous Top Options: There are many world-class flying schools, so choosing the one that fits your needs is important.
- Consider Essential Factors: Evaluate schools based on their facilities, instructor experience, safety standards, and industry recognition.
- Make an Informed Decision: Thorough research on top pilot training institutes will help you select the best option for your aviation career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Q. Which country is best for pilot training?
A. Given its varied aviation environment, high-level flight schools, advanced training facilities and comprehensive educational programme, the United States is often considered the best country for pilot training. The diversity of its airspace, advanced technology and well-established aviation sector provide young pilots with opportunities to experience different flying conditions and aircraft types.
-
Q. What is the best pilot training school in the world?
A. Some of the most famous institutions, like CAE Oxford Aviation School, U.S. Air Force Academy and Emirates Flight Training Academy, continue to be amongst the best in terms of their state-of-the-art equipment, comprehensive curricula, highly qualified instructors and worldwide recognition. These institutions offer a wide range of training courses, advanced simulators and links with airlines in order to prepare young pilots who will have the necessary foundations and practical skills for successful aviation careers.
-
Q. Why is pilot training costly?
A. Pilot training incurs significant costs due to various factors. The primary costs that are essential to the hours of flight and hands-on experience include aircraft rental, fuel, instructors’ fees, insurance, or maintenance. Moreover, the total cost is driven by advanced technology, simulator sessions, ground learning materials, regulatory compliance, and licensing fees.
-
Q. Which exam is required for a pilot training course?
A. The primary exam required for pilot training is the aviation medical examination conducted by an authorized aviation medical examiner (AME). In order to obtain a pilot's license, this medical examination shall ensure that candidates are in compliance with the physical and health standards laid down by aviation authorities.
-
Q. How do I choose the best flying schools in the world?
A. Factors such as accreditation, reputation, course content, faculty expertise, alumni feedback, and placement opportunities should be considered when choosing the best flying schools in the world. Please check out relevant certificates, business partnerships and hands-on learning opportunities.
-
Q. Is there a maximum age limit for enrolling in pilot training?
A. There are no strict minimum age limits for pilot training, although they vary according to the type of licence and country’s regulations. Generally speaking, students of all ages are accepted into commercial pilot training programs, although there may be age limits on hiring by airlines. There may be age limits for certain licences and roles in some countries.
-
Q. What is the training structure like?
Pilot training normally involves ground school and flight practice. Ground school covers the basics of theory, rules, navigation, meteorology, and aviation systems. Flight training progresses from basic manoeuvres to advanced techniques, usually starting with simulator training and progressing to actual flight.
-
Q. What type of pilot licenses can I get through the training?
A. Through pilot training, you can earn various licenses, including a Private Pilot License (PPL), allowing you to fly for recreation; a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), enabling you to fly for compensation; and an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), granting eligibility to become an airline captain. Other special certificates, which allow flying in different weather conditions and multiple engines at the same time, are instruments and multi-engine certificates.
-
Q. How long does it take to complete pilot training?
A. Depending on the types of licences sought and individual progress made, the duration of pilot training will vary. An average of 3 to 6 months may be required for a private pilot's licence, while a commercial pilot's license may take 6 months to a year. It may take several years, often alongside acquiring experience as a commercial pilot, to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot license with the required flight hours and flying experience.
-
Q. What qualifications do I need to enrol in a pilot training institute?
A. The basic requirement for pilot training is a diploma or equivalent, language skills in English and complying with specific health requirements laid down by the aviation authorities. There may be a need for certain level of mathematics and mechanical aptitude in some institutions. Furthermore, it is necessary to be passionate about aviation, dedicated and financially able to cover the costs of training.
-
Q. How important is the accreditation of the pilot training institute?
A. Accreditation plays an important role in ensuring the quality and credibility of pilot training institutes. Accredited programmes often comply with rigorous requirements established by the aviation authorities or recognised accrediting bodies in order to ensure a comprehensive education, experienced teachers, and up-to-date facilities. Other factors include the possibility of receiving financial assistance, acceptance of credits for continuing education or recognition within the aviation sector.
Have Questions? Get Guidance to reach your Dream University
Connect with India's finest counsellors and biggest study abroad community.
Get Guidance