A new partnership between DCU Business School and the National Flight Centre Pilot Academy (NFC) was unveiled at Weston airport, Dublin recently, by Simon Harris TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. It will enable DCU students on the Aviation Management with Pilot Studies degree programme to undertake their pilot training with the National Flight Centre.

Students choosing Pilot Studies as their preferred option on the course can now begin their pilot training at the commencement of year three, which will allow them to complete their BSc and Airline Transport Pilot training within a four-year period.

Minister Simon Harris TD said: “This partnership is a shining example of universities and training centres working together to deliver for students and employers. Ireland’s pilots and aviation experts of the future will now have the chance to get a degree and complete flight training in a more integrated course of studies.

'Academic-based learning as well as hands-on experience'

"They will have the opportunity for academic-based learning as well as hands-on experience. I want to thank DCU and the National Flight Centre for partnering to deliver this for students and the aviation industry. This type of project is key to Ireland’s competitiveness and ability to attract investment in the future.”

DCU president Professor Daire Keogh said: “As Ireland’s University of Enterprise, DCU is delighted to collaborate with the NFC on this initiative. The partnership will offer world class opportunities to DCU students and support the development of talent in the aviation industry which is facing a global pilot shortage.”

National Flight Centre head of training Darragh Owens said:  “There is growing international recognition that degree-level studies, combined with professional pilot education and training, can contribute significantly to the quality of candidates entering the airline industry. University experience and qualifications develop analytical skills and encourage a broader personal outlook.

'Enhance longer-term career prospects'

"These enhance longer-term career prospects for pilots as they transition into management and wider leadership roles, while enriching the contribution of skill and competence they can bring to employers. NFC is delighted to collaborate with DCU in facilitating these outcomes with our new collaboration.”

DCU BSc in Aviation Management programme chair Dr Cathal Guiomard said: “A proportion of DCU aviation management students have always pursued pilot training and the link with NFC will make that easier in the future.

"In addition, trainee pilots of the NFC will be able to obtain a DCU degree in aviation management, so this partnership will benefit anyone looking for a combined pilot training and aviation management qualification.”