L3Harris Airline Academy
Pilot Training Courses
Our Airline Academy offers UKCAA & EASA approved pilot training courses from our flight schools in the UK and U.S. We offer Integrated ATPL, Degree Programme, Flexible ATPL, and Individual Modules.
Start your pilot training journey
We are a global leader in commercial airline pilot training and our graduates are highly sought after by airlines around the world. In fact, thousands of our pilot training graduates are now flying as Captains and First Officers for major airlines such as easyJet, British Airways and Ryanair.
Our commercial airline pilot training will be delivered by industry-leading instructors. In addition, cadets have access to state-of-the-art facilities such Flight Training Devices and aircraft equipped with Garmin G1000 Electronic Flight Instruments.
Integrated ATPL
Our UKCAA/EASA Integrated Airline Transport Pilot Licence takes you from little to no flying experience to a fully qualified airline pilot in around 70 weeks, complete with bespoke accommodation offering, access to our Graduate Placement Pool and our Training Assurance.
ATPL with Degree
This three-year programme, developed by L3Harris and the University of Central Lancashire provides graduates with two professional qualifications, an aviation degree and an ATPL, ready to start your pilot career. Access to student finance could be available.
Flexible ATPL
Our Flexible ATPL takes advantage of the modular training route but delivers the same benefits and end result as our Integrated ATPL course.
Individual Modules
Whether you're at the start of your pilot training journey and want to earn your Private Pilot Licence, or are at the end and are planning to undertake your APS MCC - we have the course for you.
Flying Start ATPL
Already achieved your ATPL Theoretical Knowledge exam passes and ready to continue your training journey? Or already enrolled inin an Integrated ATPL course, but want to make the switch? Our Flying Start ATPL could be the programme for you.
IndiGo Cadet Programme
Selected by IndiGo from day one, you will embark upon a unique training route. Successful completion of training and final checks by IndiGo will take you directly to the role of Airbus A320 Junior First Officer, flying IndiGo domestic and international routes.
Pilot Training FAQs
How do I become a pilot?
To become a pilot you will need an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and a Class 1 Medical Certificate.
These are the steps you need to take to become a pilot:
- Check you meet the entry criteria & have the common skills required to become a pilot
- Complete the selection process to enrol on a pilot training course
- Complete ground school training
- Undertake foundation flight training
- Complete commercial and instrument flight training
- Undertake intermediate flight training
- Complete an airline placement (ATPL students only)
- Undertake advanced pilot training
- Congratulations! You are now ready to begin your aviation career as a First Officer!
What qualifications do I need to commence my pilot training?
To begin pilot training at our Airline Academy you’ll need the following qualifications:
- A minimum of five GCSEs grade C/4 or above, or international equivalent; which must include Maths, English and Science
You will also need:
- UKCAA Class 1 Medical Certification (without restrictions for UKCAA licence) or EASA Class 1 Medical Certification (without restrictions) for an EASA licence
- Visa - if required - to study in our flight training locations. Further details on visa requirements are listed on individual course pages
- Produce a clean criminal record check (CRC) basic disclosure certificate
How much does pilot training cost and how can I fund my pilot training?
The cost of pilot training varies depending on the course you’re looking to undertake.
- Our Integrated ATPL course price starts from £94,960 (including bespoke accommodation offering) - Find out more here
- Other courses and programmes
All our commercial pilot training programmes are self-funded by way of either savings or a loan secured typically against a UK property. We are not able to offer any financial advice however, we would suggest that potential candidates speak with their families and a variety of banks, lenders and independent financial advisers who will be best placed to discuss the products that may be available. For more information, please read our guide to funding.
How long does it take to become a pilot?
Typically, Integrated ATPL courses take 70 weeks to complete. For more information, please visit our Integrated ATPL course page.
What are my career prospects?
Our focus is helping you achieve your future career aspirations through world-class airline-focused pilot training, whether that's to become a private pilot or a qualified commercial pilot.
If you successfully obtain your PPL, you can go on to command single-engine private aircraft for non-commercial passengers.
On the other hand, once you have successfully secured your ‘frozen’ ATPL, you can kick start your career as a First Officer, second-in-command to the airline Captain. Enabling you to go on and build your theoretical and practical experience to eventually secure a role as Captain.
Do you have partnerships with airlines in Europe?
We are committed to maintaining and growing airline relationships so that we are able to offer our graduates the highest-quality, airline-focused training and unrivalled career opportunities. In turn we have built a reputation as a trusted provider of the highest-calibre pilots in the industry.
What is the difference between a UKCAA Licence and an EASA Licence?
A UKCAA Licence has been approved by the Civil Aviation Authority, of whom is a national regulatory body responsible for aviation. A CAA Licence enables you to operate a UK-registered aircraft only. For more information on non-EASA aircraft, please read here.
A EASA licence has been approved by the European Aviation Safety Agency and enables you to operate EASA aircraft. EASA aircraft fall under the regulations of the European Aviation Safety Agency.
Do you offer a dual licence for UKCAA & EASA?
Yes, we do. The dual licence allows cadets to complete both a UKCAA and EASA licence in one combined course. Cadets will be required to take both UKCAA and EASA Theoretical Knowledge exams. There will also be additional flying hours to meet both regulatory authority requirements plus skills tests that must be taken in both UK and EU airspace.
The dual licence potentially opens up greater employment opportunities as cadets will be qualified to work for airlines registered and operating under either the UKCAA or EASA. Please note however, if you wish to work in the EU you must have a right to live and work in the EU.
Can I choose where I do my pilot training?
No, you can not choose where to do your pilot training. We have flight schools across the UK and USA. Ground school is typically completed in the UK at our London Training Centre (LTC) near Gatwick. Whilst your flight training could take place in Cranfield in the UK and Orlando in the USA.
All of our flight schools are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and training is delivered by vastly experienced instructors.
Contact us
Please complete the form below to contact our team for more information on our Airline Academy.
