Table of contents
School & Overview
The Atlantic Flight Training Academy (AFTA), based in Cork (Ireland), is an approved flight training organisation by the European Aviation Authority (EASA) and was established in 1995. It operates locations in Cork and Waterford, among others, and offers a modern fleet and simulators for pilot training. The school is aimed at beginners without prior experience as well as modular candidates who want to make their pilot training flexible. On this page you will find an overview of the most important aspects of training – including offer, costs and requirements.
Offer of training
The training program at AFTA is divided into two main paths: an integrated ab initio training, which runs full-time over approximately 16 to 18 months, and modular courses, which pass individual licensing steps flexibly and at their own pace. In addition, there are specialized mentored programs in cooperation with major airlines such as Ryanair or ASL Airlines Ireland, which offer targeted preparation for an airline career.
Below you will find an overview table with typical course forms and costs (status: published information). Please note that individual costs may vary depending on the time, exchange rate and additional services.
| Currency form | Typical period | Gross price (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Ab-initio (full time) | Approximately 16-18 months | ≈ 79.000 € (2021) |
| Mentored program (e.g.) B. ASL Airlines | – | ≈ 82.500 € (2025) |
| Mentored program (e.g.) B. VistaJet | – | ≈ 93.350 € |
| Modular training (individual modules) | Flexible over several years | varies; typical range 50,000 – 100,000 € |
Costs
The costs of pilot training at AFTA are composed of various items. In the course fee range are typically uniform, equipment (airbag, headset), theory and practice training as well as certain specialty courses (e.g. Advanced Upset Prevention, on the other hand, often excludes accommodation and livelihood during training, medical examinations (e.g. EASA Class 1 Medical), license and examination fees as well as a type rating if applicable. For example, accommodation is indicated with about 650 € per month. For interested parties, this means: In addition to the course fee, reserves for accommodation, living standards, medical costs and fees should be planned. Early financial planning is therefore recommended.
Requirements
Anyone who wants to train at AFTA must meet certain minimum requirements. This includes, among other things, a valid EU/EEA or UK passport, unrestricted right to work abroad, a successful selection procedure and usually a passed aptitude test (e.g. psychometric test, simulator check, interview. For integrated programmes, the following typically applies: minimum age of approximately 171⁄2 years, completed school education at the level Leaving Certificate/GCSE or equivalent and a valid medical examination (Class 1) before commencing training. The modular route offers more flexibility – it can be stretched and is especially aimed at people with other obligations or those who already have a license (e.g. PPL) and want to complement their education. Before starting a training course, an information or sightseeing appointment at the flight school is recommended in order to gain insights into the equipment, processes and surroundings.
Contact
Atlantic Flight Training Academy (AFTA)
✆ Phone: +353 21 488 8737
✉️ Email: info@afta.ie
Address: Building 4500, Airport Business Park, Cork Airport, Co. Cork, T12 NX7D, Ireland