Frequently Asked Questions.
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I'm not sure which course is right for me. Who can I talk to?
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An aviation course at AIAC could lead to a future in piloting aircraft, pilot training, air traffic control, management compliance and more! To discuss study options with your current interests or career in mind, send us an email at info@aiacollege.com or call +61 2 6584 0484. We're always happy to help.
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What are the medical requirements to obtain a pilot's licence?
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To obtain your Commercial Pilot Licence, you'll need to hold a Class 1 medical certificate, issued by an approved doctor or General Practitioner. For more information, please visit the CASA website or talk to one of our experts on +61 2 6584 0484.
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How do I get an aviation medical certificate?
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The first step in obtaining an aviation medical certificate is to make an appointment with a CASA Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (DAME). If you pass the medical examination, you'll then be eligible to apply for a Medical Certificate through CASA.
Port Macquarie currently has two DAMEs. To find a DAME near you, or for more information on CASA medicals, visit the CASA website.
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Who will be my instructor?
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AIAC employ a number of highly qualified, dedicated and friendly flight instructors who are passionate about sharing their craft.
Learning to fly can be a daunting experience but our instructors find the motivational and caring aspect of teaching very rewarding. They also pride themselves on knowing all of their students on a first name basis.
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What is the instructor to student ratio at AIAC?
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At AIAC we like to keep class sizes as small as possible. It's likely you'll be studying in a multi-cultural group with a mix of domestic and international students.
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Do you offer part-time study options?
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Under VET regulations, the Diploma of Aviation - Commercial Pilot Licence (Aeroplane) and Diploma of Aviation - Instrument Rating are both full-time. However, we can offer the same course without the Diploma qualification on a part-time basis. Other courses can also be tailored to suit your needs. Contact us to discuss a personalised package.
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How do I get to and from AIAC?
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We have some parking options for drivers, but we encourage more environmentally friendly ways of getting to AIAC, such as cycling and using public transport.
Our main training facility in Port Macquarie is well serviced by buses and we have bicycle parking areas to make it as easy as possible to ride.
We have our own bus service which you are free to utilise.
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What options are there for accommodation in Port Macquarie?
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There's so many accommodation options available to students - from sharing a house on a small farm on the outskirts of town, to living on your own in a fully furnished apartment with spectacular ocean views.
For rental listings, we recommend domain.com.au, realestate.com.au or any of the local real estate websites. If share accommodation is your thing, check flatmates.com.au, Gumtree or even Facebook for rooms to rent. Alternatively, we may be able to arrange billeted accommodation for you.
Of course, if you're not quite sure which accommodation option may be right for you, talk to us and we'll help you decide what is best for you.
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At what age can I begin pilot training?
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You can begin flying solo at 15 years of age but to hold a Commercial Pilot Licence you must be 18 years or over. At AIAC, we don't usually enrol students who are under 18.
However, if you are under 18 and you would like to study with us, please contact us to discuss your options.
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I wear glasses. Is it possible to become a pilot?
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Yes, you can — perfect vision is not required for pilots and the wearing of glasses or contact lenses doesn't automatically prevent you from obtaining a Class 1 medical certificate. For more information on eyesight requirements, visit the CASA website.
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Where will pilot training take me?
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Pilot training can take you as far as you want to go. From the two-seater DA20 to the captain of an A380, the sky really is the limit. By adding ratings and endorsements to your CPL, you will be able to advance your career.
Holders of a CPL are restricted to such things as scenic flights, aerial photography and tourist joy flights in good weather and during daylight hours. By adding other endorsements such as the Multi-Engine, Flight Instructor and Instrument Ratings, pilots can fly different aircraft in varying environmental conditions. AIAC recommend that prospective students enrol in the Dual Diploma programs at one time to give yourself the best opportunity for employment and career advancement.
Have a look at the courses we have on offer.
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Am I eligible for VET Student loans?
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AIAC are currently working towards getting accreditation for the VET Student Loans scheme.
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Does AIAC accept international students?
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Absolutely. We accept students from anywhere in the world, either privately or from cadet programs. AIAC is also an approved flight trainer for the CAAC (Civil Aviation Administration of China).
International students will need to meet Australian Visa obligations and English Language proficiencies. Refer to visa entry requirements please refer to the Australian Federal Government's Department of Home Affairs website.
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What are the English language requirements to study at AIAC?
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International students will need an overall International English Testing System (IELTS) score of at least 5.5, with no individual score lower than 5. Before flying solo, cadets will need to have any another assessment and meet International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Level 4 Operational English (Aviation) Standards.
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Where can I get help with my Visa?
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AIAC is only able to offer limited assistance with visa applications.
Before you're eligible to apply for a Student visa (subclass 500) you will need to apply for a course at AIAC and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
Before completing your enrolment, prospective international students are encouraged to read and understand the visa requirements outlined on the Australian Federal Government's Department of Home Affairs website.
For further assistance, you may wish to approach a registered migration agent in your country or Australia.
International students who are coming to AIAC on a cadet program with an airline should refer to their employer for guidance, as their visa requirements may differ.
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