FLIGHT TRAINING
Diploma in Aviation - Aeroplane
Launch your aviation career with a qualification that sets you apart.
At Learn To Fly NZ, we’ve partnered with our sister company – Wanaka Helicopters to offer a unique Diploma in Aviation (Aeroplane) that combines fixed-wing and rotary training. Our two-year, full-time programme equips you with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience to excel as a commercial pilot in New Zealand and internationally.
DIPLOMA IN AVIATION
Why choose our Diploma in Aviation?
We’re passionate about producing highly skilled and employable pilots. By integrating rotary and fixed-wing training, we give our students a deep understanding of responsible airspace sharing and the flexibility to pursue the career pathway that suits them best.
Based at Wānaka Airport, our students fly in diverse and challenging environments – from the Southern Alps to the West Coast – building confidence in mountain and coastal flying. Through this programme, you’ll gain real-world commercial experience working alongside Wanaka Helicopters’ experienced team.
The Diploma covers:
All flight training required for your Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
Comprehensive aviation theory and professional courses
Additional flight opportunities and ratings
Ground operations experience and exposure to real-world commercial operations
This ensures our graduates leave not only qualified but also highly prepared for a career in aviation.
Training Environment & Expertise
Flying is at the heart of what we do. Our instructors bring decades of combined experience flying in challenging mountain and extreme environments around the world. We are committed to nurturing your confidence, skills, and passion, giving you the support you need to succeed.
Wanaka Helicopters provides the wider operational environment, allowing our students to participate in real commercial flight operations and gain exposure to both fixed-wing and rotary operations.
Career Pathways
Our Diploma graduates are prepared for a wide range of aviation careers, including:
Commercial pilot roles
Flight instruction and ATPL pathways
Air traffic control
Air operator and aviation management positions
Graduates receive:
NZ CAA Private and Commercial Pilot Licences
An internationally recognised Diploma in Aviation
Extensive operational and theoretical knowledge beyond standard CPL requirements
DIPLOMA IN AVIATION
Career Pathways
Our Diploma graduates are prepared for a wide range of aviation careers, including:
- Commercial pilot roles
- Flight instruction and ATPL pathways
- Air traffic control
- Air operator and aviation management positions
Our Diploma graduates receive:
- NZ CAA Private and Commercial Pilot Licences
- An internationally recognised Diploma in Aviation
- Extensive operational and theoretical knowledge beyond standard CPL requirements
DIPLOMA IN AVIATION
Student Support & Funding
We know flight training is an investment. To make it more accessible, a range of funding options are available:
- Government subsidies and student loans for eligible New Zealand and Australian citizens
- Fees Free funding for first-time tertiary learners
- Student living allowances, including accommodation support
- Scholarships, including Learn To Fly NZ’s Māori and female aviation scholarships, as well as Allen Hogan and Pauwell Scholarships
DIPLOMA IN AVIATION
Your aviation career starts here
Applications for our 2026 Diploma in Aviation programme are now open. Click through to Wanaka Helicopters to learn more about the course, download the prospectus, and start your journey toward a professional aviation career.