Our Course

Our Ab Initio Pilot Training Program at Intercontinental Aviation Academy (IAE) is designed to take aspiring pilots from no prior aviation experience to fully qualified commercial aviators. This comprehensive pathway equips trainees with the essential knowledge and skills required to excel in the aviation industry. The program follows a structured approach, beginning with the Fundamentals of Aviation (FA) course, laying the theoretical groundwork for future training. Cadets will then progress through the Private Pilot License (PPL) phase while simultaneously undertaking Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) theory. As they advance, they will complete their Structured Hours Building (SHB), further refining their flight proficiency in parallel with ATPL studies. The training continues with Commercial Pilot License (CPL) certification, followed by Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (ME-IR) to enhance multi-engine and instrument flying capabilities. Additionally, cadets will undergo Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) to master in-flight emergency handling. For those aiming to strengthen their airline readiness, optional Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC)/Jet Orientation (JOC) training and Type Rating (TR) are available. This structured training pathway ensures our graduates are well-prepared for airline careers, equipping them with expertise, confidence, and industry-recognized qualifications to excel in the global aviation sector.

Fundamentals of Aviation (FA)

The Fundamentals of Aviation course is meticulously designed to introduce newly enrolled cadets to the aviation world. Its primary objective is to provide a strong foundation for those aspiring to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). The course covers essential topics such as Aviation English, Air Law, Aircraft General Knowledge, Principles of Flight, Human Factors, Meteorology, Communications, Performance and Limitations, and Navigation, preparing cadets for more advanced aviation training.

Private Pilot License (PPL) + Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) Theory

2.1 The Private Pilot License (PPL) training is tailored for individuals who wish to fly recreationally or start a career as a professional pilot. This program builds a strong foundation, guiding students from their initial training to earning their EASA Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and ultimately progressing to the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). Upon completing the course, graduates are certified to fly solo or transport passengers for private purposes, while gaining the confidence and expertise needed for advanced flight training and a rewarding aviation career.

2.2 Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) Theory ATPL Theory is a crucial theoretical milestone in any modular or integrated flight training program, serving as the foundation for advanced aviation knowledge and career progression. This intensive phase equips aspiring pilots with a deep understanding of the technical, operational, and regulatory aspects of commercial aviation, essential for safely and effectively operating multi-crew aircraft in a complex airspace environment. It includes 13 subjects and is a key step in building the technical and theoretical proficiency required to excel in the competitive field of commercial aviation. Completing the ATPL Theory demonstrates a pilot’s readiness to advance to the practical stages of their training, such as multi-engine (ME) and instrument rating (IR) certifications, and ultimately qualifying for their Airline Transport Pilot License.

Structured Hours Building (SHB) + Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) Theory

This phase focuses on accumulating flying hours to meet the requirements for the ATPL while continuing with ATPL theory. It ensures cadets gain practical flight experience alongside reinforcing the advanced theoretical knowledge necessary for their future roles as commercial pilots. This integrated approach enhances their readiness to operate multi-crew aircraft in varied operational environments.

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

The Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is the first professional certification for pilots, allowing them to be compensated for their flying services. This phase involves more advanced flight training, focusing on complex flight maneuvers, navigation, and emergency procedures. It ensures that pilots are equipped with the skills needed to operate in a professional capacity and prepares them for a career in commercial aviation.

Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (ME-IR)

The Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (ME-IR) trains pilots to operate multi-engine aircraft under instrument flight rules (IFR). This phase is essential for pilots to handle more complex flight scenarios, including poor visibility conditions, and to operate larger aircraft with multiple engines, enhancing their competency in various flight environments.

Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT)

Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) focuses on preventing and recovering from unusual attitudes or loss of control situations that may arise during flight. It is vital for improving pilot safety by preparing them to handle emergency situations effectively. This training reduces the risk of accidents caused by loss of control and helps pilots maintain control during unexpected flight conditions.

(Optional) Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC)/Jet Orientation (JOC)

The Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) and Jet Orientation (JOC) phases teach pilots to work effectively in a multi-crew environment, focusing on communication, decision-making, and teamwork. JOC specifically prepares pilots for jet aircraft operations, providing exposure to the jet-specific flight characteristics and operations necessary for safe and efficient commercial flight operations.

(Optional) Type Rating (TR)

Type Rating (TR) is an advanced qualification required for pilots to operate specific aircraft types. This training involves both ground school and simulator sessions for a particular aircraft model, preparing pilots to operate complex or larger aircraft safely. Type rating is typically required when pilots join airlines operating specialized aircraft, ensuring they are proficient in the unique systems and operations of each aircraft type.

Ab-Initio Airline Pilot Training Program Outcome

The Ab-Initio Airline Pilot Training Program at IAA is a comprehensive training pathway designed to guide aspiring pilots from zero experience to obtaining industry-recognized qualifications for commercial aviation careers. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will:

  1. Possess a solid foundation in aviation principles through the Fundamentals of Aviation (FA) course, covering critical topics like air law, human factors, meteorology, aircraft knowledge, and navigation.
  1. Earn their Private Pilot License (PPL), enabling them to fly solo or transport passengers for private purposes, and gain the confidence required for future training.
  1. Gain advanced theoretical knowledge with parallel Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) theory training, laying the groundwork for multi-crew aircraft operations and commercial aviation.
  1. Accumulate the required flight hours through Structured Hours Building (SHB) alongside continued ATPL theory, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of both theoretical and practical aviation skills.
  1. Obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), certifying them to fly commercially and expanding their career opportunities in the aviation industry.
  1. Become proficient in multi-engine operations and IFR flying with the Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (ME-IR), preparing them to handle complex aircraft and operate in varied flight conditions.
  1. Develop emergency handling skills through Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT), which equips them with the tools to maintain control of an aircraft during unusual flight conditions.
  1. Master teamwork and communication with optional Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) and Jet Orientation (JOC) training, preparing them for the dynamic environment of multi-crew commercial flights and the operations of jet aircraft.
  1. Gain expertise in operating specific aircraft types with optional Type Rating (TR), qualifying them for airlines that require pilots to operate specific aircraft models.

By the end of the program, graduates will be fully prepared for a career in the airline industry, with the qualifications necessary to safely and effectively operate commercial aircraft in a variety of flight conditions, both solo and within a multi-crew environment. The program ensures that cadets develop both the technical skills and the practical experience needed to excel as professional pilots.

Quote of the day

Airlines are recruiting in great numbers and estimate their needs worldwide at over 31,000 new pilot hires per year until 2041. - Boeing