Leading Australian flight training academy, Sydney Flight College, is expanding its operations to Tamworth, cementing the Northern Tableland city’s reputation as a prime aviation training centre.
Sydney Flight College (SFC) will open an academy at Tamworth Regional Airport from July 2024, offering a new 12-month Diploma of Aviation package, its renowned pathway to creating the next generation of airline pilots.
In what will be a boost to the local economy, SFC will initially house 32 students and 10 instructors along with a fleet of training aircraft in existing international flight training facilities at the airport.
With a new cohort of students starting every 6 months SFC Chief Executive Officer Joseph Pilo said it’s an exciting development; “For many months now we have been looking for the right location to expand our school and I’m delighted Tamworth ticks all the boxes.
“From July next year, we will run two pilot training centres – here in Tamworth and our current facility at Bankstown Airport in Sydney, furthering our vision to bring the world closer by shaping tomorrow’s pilots.
“With its dedicated training runway and facilities, Tamworth is an ideal base for training, offering year-round operations without the hazards that can exist in the crowded skies over Sydney and represents an opportunity for students to turn dreams into reality, receive top-tier aviation training and embark on fulfilling careers as pilots.”
In its 54 years of operations, SFC has trained thousands of pilots, many of whom have moved to Australian and international airlines, while others are flying in a variety of roles from the Royal Flying Doctor Service, freight movements and private jets. Many have also chosen to stay on as instructors to help train students as future pilots.
Tamworth region Mayor Russell Webb said “Sydney Flight College expanding their operations to Tamworth is a big win for our region. This development not only brings opportunity to our youth but also brings a boost to our local economy. This initiative directly helps us to achieve our vision in Blueprint 100 by generating new jobs and improving skill levels of the community.”
