An Australia-First Aviation Program is set to launch Cairns, giving Year 11 and 12 students training in ground operations and drone piloting.
The school-to-work aviation training program in partnership with FNQ Vocational Academy and Aviation Australia aims to address aviation workforce shortages and create real job pathways for local students.
Chris Pigott, Aviation Australia Business Manager for North Queensland, said the program would provide practical, job-ready skills that could be applied widely across the aviation industry.
“Two study pathways will be offered; Aviation Ground Operations and Remote Piloting,” he said.
“The Aviation Ground Operations course will cover a range of essential skills, including check-in and customer service, baggage handling, ramp work, crew coordination and more. These are vital roles that keep the aviation industry moving safely and efficiently.
“The Remote Piloting course will equip students with the knowledge to operate drones legally and professionally, which is a fast-growing field. The program will include flight planning, navigation, safety procedures and regulations training.”
Together with theory and school-based study, the program will include two days per week of work placement with operators based at Cairns Airport.
Applications are now open for the FNQ Vocational Academy’s aviation program.
