A pilot’s flight training can help them prepare for any eventuality throughout the course of their career. Whatever they learn in flight school becomes the backbone of their skills and knowledge, which will aid them when they fly commercially or recreationally. Thus, choosing where to study and train is incredibly important for any aspiring pilot.

If you’re looking for aviation schools in the Philippines, this guide gives you 6 qualities to look for in a flight school. With these 6 qualities, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices to help you make the best decision for your career.

World-Class Training Philosophy

Finding an institution that adheres to quality education and training philosophy is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a flight school. The theories and concepts that a school teaches is just as important as the equipment being used and the staff that teaches there. Things such as ATPL theory, competency-based training and assessment philosophy, and upset prevention and recovery training should be an important part of the school’s training. Ask if these training philosophies are being integrated each phase of any training course—whether it’s entry assessment, the basic flight training phase, or the simulator training phase.

Outstanding Safety Record and Reputation

To ensure your safety throughout training, check out the certifications and accreditations of the aviation school you’re interested in. These certifications can prove that the flight school follows proper standards and takes the necessary measures to care for their aircraft, training facilities, students and instructors.

A flight school’s reputation might be difficult to determine if simply interact with its employees during your initial visit, so you might need to do some additional research. Asking other students or successful alumni pilots can help you determine if the school you’re considering has a good reputation. If they don’t have anything negative to say, then you can be sure that the flight school can provide you with good education and training.

Modern and Well-Maintained Fleet

Nothing can beat hands-on experience if you want to become a pilot, so your flight school should provide you with training on an up-to-date aircraft that’s in line with today’s modern standards. An older aircraft might use different systems from ones used in modern airline fleets, which will make it hard for you to fly commercial planes.

A flight school’s ability to maintain their aircraft using similar standards enforced by airline carriers will also help you avoid accidents. Proper and consistent maintenance also allows planes to perform consistently well despite the usage of multiple students and teachers.

Accelerated and Airline-Based Programs

A flight school that can offer an accelerated program will help you complete your pilot training more quickly. This is beneficial because airline carriers tend to give priority and additional benefits to senior pilots, such as choosing their crew and aircraft as well as being offered better work schedules. The faster you’re able to complete your training and earn your license, the sooner you can enjoy these perks.

Aside from accelerated programs, airline-based programs will help you get a taste of what it’s like to work as a pilot. These kinds of training will help you prepare for things outside of just flying planes. If they can give you training for interviews and exposure to crew members, then you can be a well-rounded pilot once you graduate.

Flexible Financial Solutions and Assistance

Aviation schools and flight training are expensive, so going to a flight school with flexible financial solutions can help you pay off your tuition fee. Aside from their offer of flexible payment, you should also consider if they have other scholarship offers. Scholarships or financial assistance can help you lessen the fees you have to pay, making the school more attractive and accessible for you.

Multiple Partners and Connections

Go for a flight school with airline partnerships and connections. These connections often have programs with job openings ready for you when you graduate. Even if your flight school doesn’t offer programs like these, your flight school can still use their partnership to recommend you to these airlines when you finish your training.

You should also check if the flight school you’re eyeing has bank partnerships. These partners can offer different kinds of financial aid or financial solutions for students. Even if they don’t offer financial assistance, the partnered bank usually offers loans at friendly rates to help students pay for their tuition upfront.

A Safe Flying Environment and Comfortable Location

The flight school of your choice should have an airport and airspace that can give you a chance to explore all kinds of weather and terrain. The airport should also be a controlled environment where you can interact with air traffic control specialists and other aircraft, giving you a similar experience to an airline pilot.

Aside from the airspace and airport, the location of your flight school should be accessible to you. If a flight school is near your home, you won’t have to spend much on travel expenses. If you want to minimize your travel expenses further, consider a flight school with in-house dormitories. To help you live comfortably at these dorms, make sure you’re in a location near groceries, restaurants, and other stores that can provide you with things you’ll need.

For a pilot, their aviation school of choice can provide them with skills and knowledge that they will use for their entire career. So make sure to consider the six factors listed above when choosing a flight school. If they can provide these and more, then your career in the aviation industry is guaranteed.