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Embarking on an aviation career necessitates top-notch training from reputable institutions. In Nigeria, aspiring pilots are met with a lot of options when it comes to choosing the right aviation training schools.
With each institution offering unique programs, navigating through the choices can be overwhelming. From cutting-edge facilities to seasoned instructors, these aviation training schools offer the ideal foundation for individuals to pursue their passion for flight.
In this article, we will discuss the 10 best aviation training schools in Nigeria, their requirements, and how to apply.
Why Should You Study Aviation in Nigeria?
Studying aviation in Nigeria offers a unique blend of opportunities and challenges that contribute to a well-rounded educational experience. Firstly, Nigeria’s strategic geographical location in West Africa positions it as a hub for aviation activities, providing students with exposure to diverse airspace and weather conditions.
Additionally, students actively engage with real-world aviation scenarios, honing their skills in a dynamic and evolving industry. With access to modern facilities, experienced instructors, and a supportive learning environment, studying aviation in Nigeria equips students with the knowledge and practical experience needed to thrive in the global aviation landscape.
10 Best Aviation Training Schools In Nigeria (2024)
Below is a list of the top 10 best aviation schools in Nigeria for aviation training.
1. Nigerian College of Aviation Technology
This college was founded in 1964 and is currently located in Zaria, Kaduna State. The NCAT. is the first aviation college in the country and was formerly known as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Training Centre.
This school has proven itself to be not only prestigious but also the best among the rest. With their mutual partnerships with domestic airlines in the country, you are sure to get the necessary training you need to excel in your flying career as a pilot. They also have a fleet of operational aircraft that are used on a chartered basis.
Apart from training commercial pilots, some of the accredited aviation courses offered at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology include standard pilot courses, private pilot licenses, international flight planning, flying instructor courses, cabin crew basic courses, and cabin crew refresher courses.
They also offer aviation management courses, aircraft maintenance engineering, aeronautical telecommunications engineering, air traffic services, and communication.
2. International Aviation College
Second on the list of pilot schools for aviation training is the International Aviation College, which is also located in the same area where you can find the International Airport at Ilorin in Kwara State. IAC is the first privately owned aviation institute in the country.
They began flight training in 2013 and have Diamond aircraft at their disposal, which they use to train their pilots. If you are looking for the cheapest aviation college in Nigeria, I suggest you look elsewhere, as the school fees at IAC are up to N7 million.
For those seeking to enroll in this college, you must be at least 17 years of age, and have at least 5 credits in math, physics, English, geography, and other subjects, which is the admission requirement for IAC.
They would also need to pass some tests, which include an ability test, an oral interview, and an aptitude test. The course duration is about 18 months (1 year and 6 months). This school boasts of foreign-trained instructors who provide quality training to pilots, air traffic controllers, and mechanics.
3. Landover Aviation Business School
This is another accredited aviation school in Nigeria that is considered to be the best in Lagos for flight training. LABS was founded in 2002. The school offers diverse aviation courses to its students to instill the necessary discipline for a successful aviation practice.
They also have three faculties, which include: the faculty of travel and tourism, which offers basic airfares, ticketing programmes, and International Air Transport Association (IATA) certificate courses, the faculty of aviation technical and aviation operations, which offers basic flight dispatchers advance courses; and the faculty of aviation management operations.
4. Universal School Of Aviation
This is another top aviation school located in Lagos State, or, to be precise, Ejigbo. The USA, as it is fondly called, was established to produce well-trained staff, be it for domestic or international aviation-related agencies. Some of the top courses offered at the United School of Aviation include travel agency management and hotel management.
According to their portal, most courses cost as little as N50,000, which is cheap. However, their expensive pilot training can cost you up to N7 million with a discount included.
5. Dhaewood Aviation Business School
DABS is another private aviation school which was established in 2005. If you want to take your prospective career in the aviation industry to the next level, we suggest you attend this school.
The school itself is managed by a certified team of qualified IATA tutors. Admission into this college is based on merit and you can visit their website for the requirements for this school.
Pilot courses at the Dhaewood Aviation Business School can cost up to N7 million, while the cheapest fee will cost you about fifty thousand Naira.
6. Aeroconsult Aviation
Aeroconsult Aviation has been ranked as one of Nigeria’s best aviation schools that offers training and certifications to aspiring pilots. This school has duly been licensed and accredited by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. They specialize in services like aviation consultancy, flight operations, and aero engineering.
Aeroconsult was founded in February 1993 to offer unmatched services to the aviation sector by training individuals who wish to become experts in aviation both at home and abroad. The institution has teachers with ample years of experience and state-of-the-art facilities to boost flight learning activities.
7. Aeroport College Of Aviation And Travel Management
This school gives you the training you need to succeed in the ever-growing and competitive aviation sector. Pilots who passed out from Aeroport College of Aviation and Travel Management attest to the fact that this institution is among the best Nigerian aviation schools with quality professional standards.
To enter this school, aspirants must credit some subjects in either WAEC, NECO, GCE O’Level, etc. This will enable the candidate access to the next stage.
The curriculum of the pilot training school is internationally certified by the relevant authority, the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Some courses offered here include Air Ticketing and Reservations, Cargo Handling, Travel agent training, Basic Flight Dispatcher, etc.
8. Crew Training Institute
Crew Training Institute ranks among the top aviation schools in Nigeria and has proved to be one of the best in the aviation industry over the years. In this institution, you get to meet cabin crew experts firsthand and learn from them.
Courses and certificates offered by CTI include the Cabin Crew Certificate Course, Resume And Cover Letter Writing, Becoming a Flight Attendant, and Recruitment Fairs. With this school, you also get trained by experts, as they have state-of-the-art equipment to improve learning.
9. Lagos Aviation Academy
The main reason LAA was established was not to only train pilots but also to boost our aviation industry with professionals. We know that Lagos Aviation is one of the best aviation schools in Nigeria today.
The school has partnered with other relevant aviation bodies both international and local training in the aviation industry. Some courses offered by Lagos Aviation Academy include IATA Cargo Handling and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulation.
10. Riteway International School Of Travel And Tourism
Riteway International School of Travel and Tourism is among the best pilot schools in Nigeria. They train people by offering acquisition and career focus in aviation and travel principles while developing a career in the airline industry.
What are the Requirements for Aviation Training Schools in Nigeria?
Aviation schools in Nigeria have requirements that applicants must meet to gain entrance into their programs. These requirements serve as a baseline to ensure students have the necessary academic qualifications and competencies to succeed in their chosen aviation courses.
1. Minimum Academic Qualifications:
- A minimum of five (5) credits in O’Level certificate, including credits in English and Mathematics.
- Additional subjects, such as physics and geography, may be advantageous for certain programs.
2. Age Requirements:
- For the pilot course, applicants must be at least 17 years old.
- For the Flight Dispatcher Course, applicants must be at least 21 years old.
3. Basic Entry Requirement:
- The minimum entry requirement for aviation programs is a minimum O’Level (WAEC/NECO) result.
- Her qualifications, such as OND, HND, B.Sc., etc., may also be accepted.
4. Competency and Academic Credentials:
- Applicants should demonstrate a minimum level of competency and provide proof of past academic credentials.
- Some advanced and professional-level courses may have additional qualification requirements.
Diploma Programme
- Minimum of WASC/GCE/NECO/SSCE or its equivalent with at least five Credits, including Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English Language.
- National Diploma (ND) Program:
- Minimum of WASC/GCE/NECO/SSCE NTC “O” Level with at least five Credits, including Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English Language.
- Minimum JAMB scores for polytechnics (180). Candidates who meet the JAMB score but did not select the specific aviation school are still eligible to apply.
Higher National Diploma (HND) Programs:
- Candidates must possess a National Diploma with a minimum of Lower Credit Pass (CGPA of 2.50 and above) in relevant fields, such as Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology, and Aircraft Engineering Technology.
- Candidates with a National Diploma in Aviation Management, Business Administration/Public Administration with a minimum CGPA of 2.50 and one year of cognate working experience are also eligible.
Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Air Traffic Safety Electronics Engineering
Candidates must possess a BSc or HND in Electrical/Electronic or an NCAT Diploma and Professional License or its equivalent.
Post Graduate Diploma in Aviation Management (PGDAM):
- Full-time program: Candidates must have either a minimum of a first Degree (BSc) from a recognized academic institution or a Higher National Diploma (HND) from a recognized academic institution with a minimum of two (2) years of working experience.
- Part-time program: Candidates must have either a minimum of a first Degree (BSc) from a recognized academic institution or a Higher National Diploma (HND) from a recognized academic institution with a minimum of two (2) years of working experience. A NCAT diploma and professional license, or its equivalent, with a minimum of two (2) years of working experience are also accepted.
Please note that specific aviation schools in Nigeria may have additional requirements or variations in their admission criteria. It is recommended to check the requirements of individual schools before applying.
How to Apply to Aviation Training Schools in Nigeria
Applying to Aviation schools in Nigeria requires careful planning and attention to detail. We will outline the essential steps you need to follow in order to apply to an aviation school successfully.
- Research aviation schools based on your interests and goals.
- Visit the website of the school of your choice. Some of the aviation schools in Nigeria do not have a functioning website, so you may need to visit the school.
- Check the admission requirements for each school.
- Prepare the required documents (O’ level results, JAMB results, etc.)
- Fill out the application forms provided by the school you’re interested in.
- Submit your application and pay any necessary fees.
- Attend interviews or take entrance exams if required.
- Explore financial aid and scholarship options for aviation students.
- Review acceptance offers and compare factors like tuition, financial aid, and campus resources.
- Accept the offer from the school of your choice and follow their enrollment instructions.
It is important that these steps are simplified, and it’s essential to refer to each school’s specific requirements and instructions for a comprehensive application process.
Conclusion
Choosing the right aviation training school is paramount for a successful aviation career. By evaluating factors such as accreditation, facilities, and instructor expertise, aspiring pilots can make informed decisions.
Whether aspiring to fly commercial jets or pursue private aviation, these top-notch institutions in Nigeria provide the necessary training and skills to reach new heights in the aviation industry.
