Qantas Airways and Queensland’s Griffith University thave announced their new pilot
training course, to commence from January 2008.Qantas Executive General Manager John Borghetti said the training was the first of its kind in Australia, with
graduates receiving a Bachelor of Aviation and a Graduate Diploma of Flight Management.
“This unique training course will nurture the best possible future pilots from all backgrounds,” Mr Borghetti said.
“Cost has traditionally been a barrier to flying training, but with the assistance of Fee-Help, a federal
government program, students could expect to offset up to $80,000, making the training more affordable.”
Mr Borghetti said at the completion of the training phase, cadets would leave Griffith University with:
  Bachelor of Aviation Degree;
  Qantas/Griffith University Graduate Diploma of Flight Management;
  commercial pilot licence;
  command instrument rating;
  credits for all air transport pilot licence theory subjects;
  100 hours as a pilot in command of a fixed wing aircraft; and
  approximately 200 hours total flying time supplemented by additional flight simulation time.
Upon successful completion of the three-year course, cadets undertake a further two years of compulsory
flying employment experience, with positions secured by the Qantas Group. This employment may include
regular public transport, charter, instructional, regional airline, or other types of flying, at regional or city areas
throughout Australia or elsewhere in the Asia-Pacific region.
“After successful completion of this phase of training, cadets will be considered for employment as a Second
Officer with the Qantas Group,” Mr Borghetti said.
Griffith University Vice Chancellor Professor Ian O’Connor said the partnership was an excellent example of
the vocational links between the University and industry that could benefit students directly.
“Qantas gets work-ready graduates with skills and education tailored to meet the needs of today’s airline
industry, while our students get the opportunity to gain real-life experience with one of Australia’s most iconic
companies,” he said.
Today, the Qantas Group employs more than 3000 pilots.
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