Ever wondered where the future of flight takes shape? Right here at the UNSW School of Aviation in Sydney dreams take flight. This leading Australian aviation center connects directly with the industry.
The UNSW School of Aviation started its journey in 1995. Back then, just 11 students dared to dream of the skies. Today, over 500 students are enrolled. The school boasts a global network of over 2000 alumni. Many graduates hold key positions in major airlines.
Professor Jason Middleton was a commercial pilot. He also had a passion for aviation. His vision kick-started the aviation program at UNSW. He saw a need for university-based flying training.
Greg Clynick, a military pilot, built the Flying Operations Unit from scratch. The Aviation Program opened its doors in 1995. It enrolled six management students and five flying students.
The first flying graduates received their wings in 1997. There were only five of them. By 2015, that number grew to 24. In 2020, over 40 students earned their commercial pilot licenses.
The annual Wings Night started in 1997. It celebrates the awarding of UNSW Wings. The Professional Pilot Certificate is also awarded. The night includes presentations from staff and special guest speakers.
The Department of Aviation became the School of Aviation in 2011. This recognized its significant role in the aviation world.
The UNSW School of Aviation owns a fleet of training aircraft. Diamond DA-40s and Piper PA-44s are used for flying training. A Cessna 182RG is used for airborne research.
The School of Aviation offers tailored degree programs. These programs meet the needs of the aviation industry. The school offers programs in management, flying, and technology. These are available at undergraduate and masters levels. There are also doctorate research programs.
Flying training takes place at Bankstown Airport. Professional instructors use the school’s aircraft and simulators for training. The airborne research laboratory is also located there. The school provides consultancy and short courses. These are delivered by specialized staff.
UNSW Aviation is the only Go8 university with aviation programs. It has been a leader in the industry for over 25 years. The School of Aviation operates flight training. It also conducts research.
The Qantas Aviation Career Enrichment Program helps prepare students for airline careers. Second-year students can participate.
The Sydney Airport SYD100 Scholarship supports educationally disadvantaged students. The scholarship covers tuition fees and residential fees.
Professor Jason Middleton led UNSW Aviation from its start in 1995. He established it as a premier aviation school. Professor Gabriel Lodewijks became Head of School in 2017. He brought expertise in engineering technology and transport systems.
The Human Factors laboratory offers tools to understand human performance. It includes driving, rail, and aviation simulators. The Airborne Remote Sensing Facility supports projects with airborne remote sensing.
Brian Horton retired after a decade as Director of Flying Operations. He oversaw significant growth and the purchase of new aircraft.
In 2020, the School of Aviation adapted to COVID-19. It shifted to online tuition and implemented safety protocols.
Dane Kondic, former CEO of Air Serbia, joined the school. He brings real-world airline experience. The UNSW School of Aviation continues to soar. It prepares graduates to lead the global aviation industry.