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Discover the best flight schools in the UK
Discover the best flight schools in the UK to become a pilot. It covers training options, costs, entrance exams and whether international students can apply.
If you’re serious about becoming a pilot, choosing the right flight school matters just as much as the training itself. The UK is home to some of the most respected and well-established flight schools, attracting students from around the world thanks to high training standards, structured programs, and strong airline connections.
But when every school claims to be the best, how do you really decide?
This guide breaks down the best flight schools the UK has to offer using practical criteria like entrance requirements, location, course length, international student acceptance, and cost. It includes all the information you actually need to compare your options and choose the right one for you.
Without further ado, let’s begin.
1. Skyborne Airline Academy
Skyborne Airline Academy is one of the top flight schools in the UK. It’s a modern, airline-focused pilot training school known for its structured approach and strong industry alignment. It combines proven training methods with advanced technology to prepare students for real-world airline operations. And its Integrated ATPL program is designed to take students from zero flying experience to commercial airline readiness, with a strong emphasis on continuous learning, professional standards, and individual skill development. Skyborne also works closely with several leading airlines, offering trainees exposure to airline expectations early in their training journey.
Location
Skyborne’s UK training base is located at Gloucestershire Airport, one of the busiest general aviation airports in the UK. As part of the Integrated ATPL course, students also complete a significant portion of their single-engine flight training at Skyborne’s facility in Vero Beach, Florida.
How long is the course?
The Integrated ATPL course takes approximately 18 months to complete and is divided into 5 phases:
- Phase 1 – Theoretical knowledge training (28 weeks) in the UK.
- Phase 2 – Single-engine flight training and CPL in Vero Beach, Florida.
- Phase 3 – Multi-engine Instrument Rating training in the UK.
- Phase 4 – Advanced UPRT training.
- Phase 5 – APS MCC training using a Boeing 737 MAX simulator.
Does it accept foreign students?
Yes. Skyborne accepts international students and supports them throughout the training process. Applicants must hold a valid passport and meet visa and regulatory requirements applicable to both the UK and the United States as part of the dual-location training structure.
Do applicants have to pass an entrance test?
Applicants must complete a selection process, which includes:
- Online psychometric, numeracy, and aptitude assessments.
- An online assessment session and interview.
Before training begins, students must also hold a UK CAA Class 1 Medical Certificate and an FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate. Academic requirements include a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths, English, and Science, or equivalent international qualifications.
Cost
The total cost of Skyborne’s Integrated ATPL course is approx. $155,136 (£114,950). This includes flight training, ground school, simulator sessions, and access to Skyborne’s Performance Protection program, which offers additional support if extra training is required to reach proficiency. Living expenses, visa costs, and personal expenses are not included.
2. Aeros
Aeros Flight Training is one of the UK’s most established modular pilot training organisations, with over 30 years of experience in private and commercial flight training. Known as a leader in modular pathways, Aeros offers a flexible alternative to full-time integrated programs through its Fastrack Commercial Pilot Course, allowing students to train at their own pace while maintaining work or personal commitments. The school operates as an EASA Part-FCL Approved Training Organisation and is widely recognised for its professional instruction, modern fleet, and strong student outcomes. Aeros is particularly well-suited to students who want airline-level training without the rigidity or upfront cost of a traditional integrated course.
Location
Aeros operates across multiple UK locations, including Cardiff, Gloucester, Leeds East, Wellesbourne (Stratford-upon-Avon), and Fife.
How long is the course?
The Fastrack Modular Commercial Pilot Course takes students from zero experience through to fATPL, CPL, MEP, and MEIR, covering all required flight hours, ratings, and ATPL theory. It is designed to be flexible, so duration varies based on your pace. Most students complete the full course in 24 to 36 months.
Does it accept foreign students?
Yes. Aeros accepts international students, provided they have the legal right to live, study, and train in the UK. Applicants must meet UK visa and residency requirements, as Aeros’ training is conducted entirely within the UK.
Do applicants have to pass an entrance test?
Applicants must meet several entry requirements before beginning training, including:
- Minimum age of 18 to commence commercial training.
- Fluency in English (ICAO Level 4 or IELTS 5.5 as a guideline).
- Ability to obtain an unrestricted UK CAA or EASA Class 1 Medical.
- A Private Pilot Licence issued to ICAO standards.
- Basic knowledge of mathematics and physics.
Selection is based on eligibility, documentation, and medical clearance rather than a single competitive aptitude test.
Cost
The total estimated cost of the Fastrack Modular Commercial Pilot Course is approx. $128,210 (£94,999).
3. British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy
The British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy is British Airways’ flagship cadet pilot program, designed to train future airline pilots from diverse backgrounds. Often mentioned when discussing the best flight schools and airline cadet courses in the UK, this program stands out by offering fully funded integrated flight training to a limited number of successful candidates each year, removing the financial barrier typically associated with pilot training. Candidates who successfully complete the program and meet performance standards move directly into a career as a British Airways pilot. Training is delivered through British Airways’ approved partner flight schools, ensuring a highly structured and airline-aligned training experience.
Location
Flight training is conducted through British Airways’ official Approved Training Organisations, which currently include Skyborne Airline Academy and FTEJerez. Training locations may be in the UK and overseas, depending on the selected flight school and training phase.
How long is the course?
The integrated flight training program typically takes 18 to 24 months to complete. The course is full-time and structured to take cadets from no prior flying experience through to airline-ready pilot qualification.
Does it accept foreign students?
Applicants must have the unrestricted right to live and work in the UK without sponsorship. This requirement means the Speedbird Pilot Academy is not open to international students who require visa sponsorship.
Do applicants have to pass an entrance test?
Yes. The Speedbird Pilot Academy has a multi-stage and highly selective assessment process, designed to evaluate suitability for a British Airways pilot role. This includes:
- An online application and eligibility screening.
- Situational judgement test.
- Maths test.
- Detail checking and accuracy test.
- Communication-based assessments, including recorded audio exercises.
Applicants must also meet strict eligibility criteria, including age limits, educational requirements, English language proficiency, swimming ability, medical clearance (UK CAA Class 1), and background checks.
Cost
There is no training cost for successful candidates. Flight training is fully funded by British Airways. Candidates should note that competition is extremely high and selection is based on performance throughout the assessment process.
4. CAE Oxford Aviation Academy
CAE Oxford Aviation Academy, part of the global aviation training provider CAE, is one of the most established flight schools in the UK. It offers ab initio pilot training and integrated aviation resourcing services, and it has been training professional airline pilots since 1961. The academy operates an extensive training infrastructure that includes over 125 training aircraft, 64 full-flight simulators, and 10 training centres worldwide. In addition to pilot training, its centres also deliver approved training programs for cabin crew and aircraft maintenance engineers across a wide range of aircraft types, including Boeing, Airbus, Bombardier, BAE Systems, and Embraer.
Location
London Oxford Airport, Langford Ln, Kidlington.
How long is the course?
The length of training at CAE Oxford Aviation Academy depends on the program a student is enrolled in. Generally, the courses last between 15 to 24 months. The exact duration can vary based on the specific program, location, regulatory body (e.g., EASA, DGCA), and the student’s personal progress.
Does it accept foreign students?
International applicants are welcome to enrol, but they must meet UK study visa requirements and provide evidence of English language proficiency as part of the admission process.
Do applicants have to pass an entrance test?
There is no standalone entrance exam listed, but applicants must meet several eligibility and competency requirements based on the program they choose.
Cost
Costs vary significantly depending on the type of program, aircraft and simulator used, and the duration of training. Having said that, the courses typically range from $121,464-141,708 (£90,000-105,000).
5. ACS Flight Training
ACS Flight Training is a Scotland-based commercial flight training school focused on preparing students for professional airline careers. Known for its hands-on approach and experienced instructor team, ACS has trained pilots who now fly with airlines around the world. For aspiring commercial pilots, the school offers structured training courses that build on existing flying experience and focus on real-world airline standards.
Location
ACS Flight Training is based at Perth Airport in Scone, Perthshire, Scotland, operating from Hangar 3 at the airport.
How long is the course?
Their Commercial Pilot Licence training is designed for PPL(A) holders and is completed through a combination of ground school and flight training. Applicants without an Instrument Rating complete a minimum of 25 hours of dual flight instruction, while those who already hold a valid Instrument Rating or BIFM require a minimum of 15 hours.
Does it accept foreign students?
ACS Flight Training can accept international students, provided they meet UK aviation and immigration requirements, including the necessary medical certification and licensing prerequisites.
Do applicants have to pass an entrance test?
There is no formal entrance test or aptitude assessment. However, applicants must meet strict pre-requisites before starting the Commercial Pilot Licence course. These include a minimum of 100 hours P1/PIC, completion of a 300nm solo cross-country flight with two full-stop landings away from the departure airport, successful completion of the relevant ATPL theoretical examinations, a valid Night Rating, and a UK CAA Class 1 Medical Certificate.
Cost
The Commercial Pilot Licence course is priced at approx. $13,833 (£10,250). The fee includes all ground school training and study materials, 25 hours of flight training, all landings at Perth Airport, and airways and approach charges.
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Choosing from the best flight training schools in the UK
Our list represents some of the best flight schools in the UK that aspiring pilots can choose from. Each offers accredited training, international student acceptance, and entry into a professional aviation career. So, which is the best flight school for you? The right choice depends on your personal goals, preferred learning style, budget, and how quickly you want to move from training to the flight deck. Some students thrive in full-time, fast-paced programs, while others need flexibility to train. Location and visa constraints also play an important role. Take the time to compare programs carefully, ask the right questions, and understand what each school expects from its students. This will help you make a decision you feel confident about.
