Becoming A Pilot In Austria: Requirements And Steps

If you're interested in becoming a pilot in Austria, there are a few steps you should consider taking. Firstly, research the available flight training options and basic requirements in the country. Decide on the training stages you'll need to undergo and choose a suitable flight school. It's important to consider your career goals, as the type of license you'll need depends on whether you want to be a private pilot, commercial pilot, or airline transport pilot. Obtaining a college degree alongside flight training can also be an option, offering a combination of academic and practical qualifications. Additionally, make sure you meet the minimum educational requirements, which include a high school diploma and a certain level of English proficiency, as it is the international language of aviation.

Flight school options and requirements

There are several flight schools in Austria that offer different pilot training programs. These include Aviation Academy Austria (AAA), Austrian Airlines, and the European Flight Academy. It is important to research the available flight training options and their basic requirements, training stages, and enrollment requirements.

Aviation Academy Austria (AAA) is Austria's only flight school with its own simulator centre. It offers a two-year training program with a focus on motivation, teamwork, and personality development. The school provides individual training concepts depending on previous experience and goals. AAA also has the youngest training fleet in Austria, which includes 11 Diamond Aircraft aircraft. To enrol in AAA, you must pass a Basic Qualification Test and a personal interview.

Austrian Airlines offers the Beginner+ program, which provides subsidised training with a pre-contract with the airline. The program includes Ab-Initio training as a pilot at the European Flight Academy, with subsequent entry opportunities at all Lufthansa Group airlines, including Austrian Airlines.

The European Flight Academy, in connection with Lufthansa AG at the German Aerospace Center (DLR), offers a selection process that cannot be completed in English.

In general, to start pilot training in Austria, you will need to secure a medical certificate, which can be arranged with the help of the flight school. You must also be at least a high school graduate and have at least a level 4 English standard before receiving your pilot license.

Types of pilot licenses

The type of pilot license you need depends on your aviation goals. Here is a list of the types of pilot licenses available in Austria:

Student Pilot License

The first pilot license you will need to obtain is a student pilot license. This license allows you to start your flight training.

Private Pilot License (PPL)

A Private Pilot License will allow you to fly solo, with passengers, or cargo, but without monetary compensation.

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

If you want to become a commercial pilot, you will need to obtain a Commercial Pilot License. This license will allow you to work as a professional pilot and earn a living. There are a few ways to obtain a CPL in Austria. You can either enroll in a flight school that offers a CPL program or combine a college degree with flight training.

Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

If you want to work for an airline, you will need to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot License. Airlines often sponsor cadet pilot programs, which guarantee employment upon completion. With this type of license, you can work as a first officer or captain for an airline.

It is important to note that each flight school in Austria has its own procedures and enrollment requirements, and the tuition fees vary depending on the pilot training courses you choose. Additionally, you must be at least 16 years old and have a high school diploma to start pilot training in Austria.

English language proficiency

Students must be fluent in English, both spoken and written. A short phone call test will be conducted to assess the student's English language skills.

If you are looking to improve your English, there are courses available that can help you achieve the required level of proficiency.

In addition to English proficiency, students must also have at least a high school-level knowledge of Math and Physics, be at least 18 years old, and obtain a Class 1 Medical Certificate, which involves a thorough medical examination to confirm they meet the necessary health standards for commercial pilots.

Training stages

The training stages to become a pilot in Austria can vary depending on your goals and experience. However, here is a general overview of the steps you can expect to take:

• Research and Basic Requirements: Begin by researching the available flight training options in Austria and the basic requirements for each program. This includes considering your career goals, such as obtaining a Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL).
• Flight School Selection: Choose a flight school that aligns with your goals and meets your enrollment requirements. Consider factors such as the school's procedures, tuition fees, and the quality of their training fleet and facilities.
• Enrollment and Medical Certificate: Once you've selected your flight school, initiate the enrollment process and obtain a medical certificate, which is necessary to start your pilot training. The flight school will typically assist you in arranging the medical certificate.
• Language Proficiency: Ensure that you meet the English language proficiency requirements. Since aviation's international language is English, it is recommended to have at least a level 4 English standard before receiving your pilot license.
• Training Program: Complete the flight training program, which will cover various aspects of piloting, including practical flight training and theoretical knowledge. The duration of the program may vary depending on the school and the specific license you are pursuing.
• License Acquisition: Upon successful completion of your flight training program, you will be eligible to obtain your pilot license. The type of license will depend on the program you chose (PPL, CPL, or ATPL).

It is important to note that the training stages can vary slightly between different flight schools and programs in Austria. Additionally, some individuals may choose to pursue a college degree alongside their flight training, which can influence the duration and structure of the training stages.

Career opportunities

Once you have completed your pilot training, you will be able to work as an airline pilot. Aviation Academy Austria, for example, offers a two-year training program that prepares you for a career as an airline pilot. The school also provides mentorship and career events to help you find a job in the cockpit.

If you are interested in working for an airline, you will need to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). You can also choose to become a private pilot or obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

Austrian Airlines, for instance, offers a wide range of career opportunities for experts, entry-level candidates, and career changers. The airline provides extensive and state-of-the-art education for its cockpit crew, and you can shape your career path from first officer to captain. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to gain experience on international short-, medium-, and long-haul routes.

If you are interested in a more hands-on role, Austrian Airlines also offers a mechatronics apprenticeship where you can work with experienced technicians to ensure aircraft are ready for take-off. Alternatively, you can explore an office administrator apprenticeship, where you will be guided by experienced colleagues and ensure the smooth running of administrative operations.

Frequently asked questions