April 7, 2022
A new partnership between DCU Business School and the National Flight Centre Pilot
Academy (NFC) was launched at Weston Airport, Dublin today, by Simon Harris, T.D.,
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. This
collaboration will facilitate DCU students on the Aviation Management with Pilot Studies
degree programme who undertake their pilot training with 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 3, which will allow them to complete their B.Sc.
and Airline Transport Pilot training within a 4-year period.
Minister Simon Harris, T.D., 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. 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 Prof 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. 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 B.Sc. 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.”