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Discover the best flight schools in Australia
A detailed guide to the best flight schools in Australia, covering training quality, locations, course duration, costs, and international student eligibility.
Australia attracts aspiring pilots from all over the world for good reason. It offers high training standards, diverse flying conditions, and English language instruction that aligns well with global aviation requirements. But choosing where to learn how to fly is not a small decision. The school you choose shapes your discipline, confidence, and career trajectory from day one.
To build this list of the best flight training schools in Australia, we focused on criteria that matter to future pilots. These include the quality and structure of training programs, location and airspace exposure, support for international students, entry requirements, transparency around course duration, and realistic cost expectations. The schools featured below are consistently recognized for professional training environments and strong outcomes for graduates who want to become commercial pilots.
1. Flight Training Adelaide (FTA)
Flight Training Adelaide is globally respected for its airline-style training model. With a long history of training cadets for international airlines, FTA is known for consistency, precision, and a highly standardized curriculum.
Location
The school is based at Parafield Airport in South Australia, an environment well suited for intensive flight training with minimal congestion and reliable weather patterns.
How long is the course?
Integrated programs typically last between 18 and 24 months, depending on the training track and licensing requirements.
Does it accept foreign students?
Yes. FTA has extensive experience training international students and airline-sponsored cadets, which is why it often comes up in discussions around the best flight schools worldwide.
Do applicants have to pass an entrance test?
Yes. Entry involves aptitude testing, interviews, English assessments, and aviation medical clearance. Applicants must first pass selection tests that assess academic ability, hand-eye coordination, multitasking, and decision-making skills. Students must be at least 18 years old to commence training. A CASA Class 1 medical certificate is required before starting the course, though it is not needed during the initial selection stage.
Cost
Fees are approximately $63,438 (AUD 94,444) for the Diploma of Aviation – Commercial Pilot Licence – Aeroplane. Fees vary slightly depending on the year and month of intake.
2. CAE Melbourne
CAE Melbourne is among the leading flight schools in Australia. It’s known for its airline-focused pilot training, strong structure, depth, and regulatory compliance. Their Integrated Commercial Pilot Licence with Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating is built to meet the minimum licensing standards required for employment with commercial airlines. The programme offers a comprehensive training experience that blends classroom-based aeronautical theory with extensive flight and simulator sessions. Fully aligned with CASA Part 61 requirements, the course prepares students not only for licensing examinations but also for the operational demands of real-world airline flying. Upon completing all training phases and assessments, graduates earn a Private Pilot Licence, a Multi-Engine Class Rating, a Multi-Engine Instrument Rating, and a Commercial Pilot Licence with Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating.
Location
Moorabbin Airport, Melbourne, Australia.
How long is the course?
This is a full-time, integrated programme with a duration of 15 months. The course leads to a Commercial Pilot Licence with a Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (CPL MECIR) and includes both theoretical and practical training. While CAE offers multiple pilot training pathways globally, this specific programme in Melbourne follows a single, structured training route.
Does it accept foreign students?
Yes. Applicants must meet English language requirements based on their visa type. For international applicants, an IELTS score of 5.5 or higher is recommended.
Do applicants have to pass an entrance test?
Applicants must meet several eligibility and competency requirements. You must:
- Be 18 years or older at the start of training.
- Be eligible to hold an Australian Security Identification Card (ASIC).
- Be able to obtain a CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate.
- Meet English language requirements relevant to their visa (international students).
Cost
Approx. $68,076 (AUD 101,350), inclusive of GST.
3. Australian National Airline College (ANAC)
Australian National Airline College (ANAC) has been training pilots for over 25 years and is known for delivering internationally recognised flight training aligned with airline requirements. The school operates under CASA approvals and maintains a strong safety record across its training operations. ANAC offers structured courses for both private and commercial pilot training, with many graduates going on to fly for major airlines worldwide. Training is supported by a large fleet of well-maintained aircraft and experienced instructors, with programs designed to meet common airline entry requirements.
Location
ANAC’s main campus is located at Moorabbin Airport in Mentone, a suburb of Melbourne, approximately 30 minutes from the city’s central business district.
How long is the course?
Duration depends on the chosen training program. The Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence – Aeroplane) combined with the Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) takes approximately 93 weeks. The standalone Commercial Pilot Licence program is typically completed in 68 weeks. The Private Pilot Licence course runs for around 24 weeks, while the Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating course takes approximately 25 weeks.
Does it accept foreign students?
Yes. ANAC is CRICOS approved and accepts international students. And it delivers programs that meet internationally recognised licensing and training standards.
Do applicants have to pass an entrance test?
Applicants must meet CASA and course-specific entry requirements. This includes eligibility for aviation training, English proficiency, and the ability to obtain the required aviation medical certification. Entry requirements may vary depending on the program and whether the applicant is training for a private or commercial licence.
Cost
Course fees vary by program. The combined Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence) and Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is approximately $86,650 (AUD 129,000). The Commercial Pilot Licence diploma is around $60,117 (AUD 89,500), while the Private Pilot Licence course costs approx. $25,255 (AUD 37,600). The Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating is priced at about $26,540 (AUD 39,500).
4. Griffith University School of Aviation
Griffith University’s School of Aviation combines academic study with professional flight training, making it well suited for students who want to graduate with both a degree and pilot licensing. Developed in close collaboration with industry leaders, the program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, technical capability, and professional mindset sought by employers. Strong ties with major airlines and guidance from an Industry Advisory Board ensure the curriculum reflects current technology and best practices. Often recognised among the best flight schools in Australia, it also provides a strong foundation in aviation science and lifelong learning, supported by mentoring and professional development opportunities through its dedicated student support initiatives.
Location
Griffith University’s aviation program theory is taught at their Nathan Campus (Brisbane). The practical flight training happens at Archerfield Airport (Brisbane) and Bankstown Airport (Sydney).
How long is the course?
Degree-linked aviation programs typically run for three years, integrating flight training with academic coursework.
Does it accept foreign students?
Yes. Griffith University welcomes international students and offers structured support services.
Do applicants have to pass an entrance test?
Admission usually requires academic eligibility, aptitude assessments, English proficiency, and aviation medical clearance.
Cost
Costs vary significantly based on the course you choose. For example, the fee for their Bachelor of Aviation is approx. $30,562 (AUD 45,500). And the fee for their Bachelors of Aviation/Information Technology is approx. $29,218 (AUD 43,500)
5. Qantas Group Pilot Academy
The Qantas Group Pilot Academy was created to train the next generation of professional pilots to meet growing global demand. Delivered in partnership with Flight Training Adelaide (FTA), the Academy offers airline-aligned training in a structured, supportive environment. Graduates complete an integrated program designed to meet CASA licensing requirements and prepare students for multi-crew airline operations using modern training aircraft and purpose-built facilities, thus making it one of the top flight schools in Australia.
Location
The academy is based at Wellcamp Airport in Toowoomba, Queensland.
How long is the course?
The training is delivered full-time and on site. The Commercial Pilot Licence is completed through an integrated, multi-module program, followed by advanced training that includes ATPL theory, Multi-Engine Instrument Rating, and Multi-Crew Cooperation. The overall duration varies depending on progression through each training stage.
Does it accept foreign students?
No. At this stage, the academy only accepts applications from Australian citizens or holders of Australian permanent residency. Applications from candidates who do not meet this requirement are not currently considered.
Do applicants have to pass an entrance test?
Yes. Entry into the academy is competitive and includes both academic and aptitude-based assessments. The program has a strong focus on mathematics and science, and applicants are expected to have a solid understanding of these subjects at a Year 12 level. Applicants must meet at least one of the following academic requirements:
- Completion of a Senior Secondary (Year 12) Certificate of Education.
- Certificate IV or higher under the Australian Qualifications Framework.
- A comparable overseas qualification assessed by a Federal or State government agency.
- Exit Level 3 or above in the Australian Core Skills Framework for reading and numeracy, arranged through FTA.
Eligible candidates who progress are required to complete computer-based assessments, pilot aptitude and core skills testing, and an interview with FTA. A CASA Class 1 medical certificate is also mandatory prior to commencing training.
Cost
Fees are approx. $63,438 (AUD 94,444) for the Diploma of Aviation – Commercial Pilot Licence – Aeroplane. And approx. $14,315 (AUD 21,312) for the Advanced Diploma of Aviation – Pilot in Command. Fees vary slightly depending on the year and month of intake. Scholarship opportunities are available through the Qantas Group Pilot Academy Scholarship Program, with grants offered over multiple years to support eligible students.
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Choosing the right flight school in Australia
What these schools share is a commitment to safety, professionalism, and employable outcomes. They operate in diverse airspace, use well-maintained training fleets, and follow CASA-approved curricula that are respected internationally.
Every school on this list offers a legitimate pathway to becoming a professional pilot, but the best flight school in Australia for you depends on how you prefer to learn, where you want to train, and how structured you want your program to be.
