International Flight Training
New Zealand Diploma in Aviation
A dedicated pathway for international students.
The New Zealand Diploma in Aviation – International Flight Training (Level 5) is designed for international students who want to complete professional flight training while experiencing life in New Zealand.
The programme is delivered by our sister company, Wānaka Helicopters, with Learn to Fly NZ instructors supporting the aeroplane flight training and practical lessons at Wānaka Airport. Students can choose either an aeroplane or helicopter pathway, combining online theory study with structured practical flight training in Wānaka.
This programme may be right for you if you:
- Intend to pursue a professional career in aviation
- Are prepared to commit to full-time flight training in New Zealand
- Are a motivated and self-disciplined online learner
- Want to gain a recognised aviation qualification alongside your pilot licensing requirements
- Would benefit from training within an active commercial aviation environment
INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMA IN AVIATION
How the International Diploma works
1. Complete the Gateway Course from home
- You will begin by completing an online PPL-level Gateway Course while living in your home country.
- This allows you to start building your aviation knowledge before travelling to New Zealand and helps the training team assess your readiness for the practical programme.
2. Apply for your New Zealand student visa
- Once you have successfully completed the required preparation and a training place is available, Wānaka Helicopters can provide support and programme documentation for your New Zealand student visa application.
- All required enrolment, immigration and programme documentation must be completed before your visa application can be supported.
3. Begin flight training in Wānaka
- After arriving in New Zealand, you will begin your practical flight training at Wānaka Airport. Aeroplane students will complete their practical lessons with support from the experienced Learn to Fly NZ instructor team.
- You must pass six required theory examinations before completing your first solo flight. Your CPL-level theory study will then continue online alongside pre-booked practical flight lessons.
- Flight training is subject to weather, aircraft and instructor availability, commercial operations and your individual progress. Outside your scheduled training, you can continue your theory study or make the most of living in one of New Zealand’s most unique regions.
INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMA IN AVIATION
Programme duration
International students should generally allow approximately 80 to 100 weeks to complete the programme.
Your individual training timeframe will depend on:
- Your progress and flying ability
- Theory study and examination completion
- Weather conditions
- Training consistency
- Aircraft and instructor availability
- Civil Aviation Authority requirements
Eligible graduates may also qualify for up to six months of post-study work rights, subject to the New Zealand immigration requirements in place at the time of application.
INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMA IN AVIATION
Indicative international training costs
Typical training costs are currently estimated at:
Aeroplane: approximately NZ$96,250 for 200 flight hours
These figures are indicative and may change. Medical certification, visa fees, insurance, examinations, accommodation, travel and general living expenses are additional.
Final flight training costs depend on individual performance, the number of hours required to reach the necessary standard and the applicable training rates at the time.
DIPLOMA IN AVIATION
Your aviation career starts here
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