Which school?

[Harleyrider]

Hi All,

I intend to commence a zero to ATPL course in the coming months and would like some input from past students of different schools. I have found numerous threads on academies which should be avoided but not many on locations where students had positive experiences.

My intention is to undertake an integrated program and I would like to complete the training in as short a time as possible, this will undoubtedly mean I will have to train somewhere with a good climate. I want to stay in Europe but am open to relocating to any area for the course duration.

Naturally cost will be a factor, I have read up on all the more expensive schools but I feel there must be equally as good providers offering courses for a lot less than the large commercials.

Your input is greatly appreciated.

[Genghis the Engineer]

Do a PPL first.

After that you'll know if you have aptitude and enthusiasm enough to go through professional training, you'll also know a lot more about flying. Make sure that your instructor knows that is your intention however, and pushes you appropriately.

If you go ahead with integrated - the hours and experience will benefit you. If you realise that you would rather go modular, just fly for fun, or that flying isn't for you - the money on that PPL will have been incredibly good value for money.

If you want to save a lot of money, go Modular. There are advantages and disadvantages to the two routes - and plenty of threads on this sub-forum to explain them. But, the large Integrated training providers are all very expensive - there's no such thing as "budget integrated".

[CaptainCriticalAngle]

Good advice above.

Also, Zero to CPL/IR does not have to be integrated. You could do a 'one stop' modular course - BCFT, Stapleford etc etc. More flexibility.

You'll end up with exactly the same qualifications and many airlines still respect this route.

Above all, visit as many ATOs as you can.

[average-punter]

I agree with Genghis re the PPL - should make the learning curve shallower! i wouldn't recommend doing it on the cheap though. Visiting FTOs is also good advice, however if you go for an 'open day' remember to attend with a healthy does of cynicism!

[Harleyrider]

Hi,


Firstly a big thank you to those that have responded, in relation to the integrated v modular, I have decided that I will conduct all my training at the same school as this seems to be favoured by potential employers.


I completely agree that many of the budget training schools seem to offer a poor level of training, however the larger corporate schools seem to overcharge for their services. What I would like to receive input on are schools outside of the big names that offer value for money and would especially be interested in hearing from students who have completed their training at these schools.


I have located a number of schools in the UK which seem to offer a high level of training at a reasonable price, unfortunately due to the current poor exchange rate from euro to sterling, I do not think training in the UK will be feasible. As such I would be particularly interested in hearing from anybody who has trained with good European schools in the Eurozone.


Thanks in advance.

[EC DKN]

Bartolini Air is a reputable school! However as a Ppl from Spain I must say if you want to train outside the 3 biggest schools go modular in the UK (I will) or do nothing!

[parkfell]

Visit ACS, Perth. Scotland

See other thread about Scotland or Poland.

Nothing on offer in Cork theses days?

[Harleyrider]

Hi all,


Thank you everybody for your responses and the information received so far, has anybody that has completed their training in Spain or Portugal good references for schools in either location. I would expect with the good weather, it should be a faster route to completing the course?


Thanks again.