Atlantic Flight Training - Coventry
Hi,
I cannot comment on CTC although I looked at Oxford and chose Atlantic Flight Training in Coventry for my ATPL training. I have done my ATPL groundschool with them and I am planning to do my CPL/MEP/IR with them too. The groundschool instructors are excellent and very approachable with a variety of different backgrounds, each having at least one specialist subject due to much experience in that area. The terms are split into three, taking exams in sets of 5, 5, then 4. It is much less intensive than some schools and gives you more time to actually learn the course than just pass the exams.
From the flying side, the fleet of aircraft is generally well maintained, with brand new DA40's and DA42 Twin-Stars being delivered regularly. The instructors are also well experienced here, with varied and respectable backgrounds. There are also two Frasca FNPTII DA42 simulators and plans for a CRJ simulator arriving this summer (unsure of exact dates) with a JOT course to follow.
AFT also have teamed up with Jeppesen to write their own training manuals, which are a lot more understandable and friendly for the student and use their considerable experience in the airline industry (Atlantic Airlines and Air Atlantique) in writing the books. They are also in the middle of a large operation to move to bigger purpose-built premises on Coventry Airport.
I have always been impressed with AFT since I first visited when I was thinking about the ATPL, and would happily reccommend them to anyone. Personally, I was less than impressed with Oxford when I visited as I found them rude and lacking in interest for the individual student. AFT as a result of being that bit smaller have the advantage of being more friendly and understanding for the individual and are better equipped to tailor a course to your timescale and needs.
Although trying to remain unbiased, I find it difficult as I have never been less than impressed with AFT and am honest enough to admit I am a difficult person to please!
Would definately reccommend to anyone thinking about the ATPL, CPL or even PPL.
CVT Pilot.