On 3rd October, Leading Edge Aviation marked its 5th anniversary.
In the half-decade since its inception, the pilot training academy has seen significant growth, beginning with two students and now boasting 262 enrolled in various training stages. In total, the academy has trained 664 pilots, collectively flying over 62,000 hours.
The training school prides itself on a quoted 99% pass rate, and has invested heavily in enhancing the training environment for its students. Among the key developments:
- Infrastructure and Expansion: Investments include an A320 simulator in 2020, three DA42 simulators, and a new training base in Alhama, Spain established in 2022. The academy’s fleet now includes 12 DA40, 6 DA42, and a T67 aircraft, with an additional five DA40s arriving soon.
- Technological Innovation: Leading Edge was recognised in 2021 with an award for its Augmented Reality Experience A320 cockpit simulation. In 2022, the academy also launched the VECTOR distance learning programme for remote ground school, highlighting its commitment to modernised training methods.
- Airline Collaborations: Graduates of Leading Edge are now employed in over 20 major airlines. The academy has also recently partnered with the British Airways Whitetail Recruitment Programme, further expanding opportunities for its graduates.
The academy’s holistic training approach, termed the “whole pilot” approach, emphasises not only technical flight skills but also the broader abilities required by commercial pilots. This training method has been key in producing pilots ready to assume roles in leading airlines.
Emphasising diversity and inclusivity, Leading Edge reports that 17% of its students are female, with increasing numbers from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
To commemorate its five-year milestone, the academy is offering a £5,000 bursary to the first five students enrolling in 5 specific LEAP integrated courses. The eligible courses are:-
Course Start Date
LEAP – 045 30/11/23
LEAP – 046 04/01/24
LEAP – 047 01/02/24
LEAP – 048 07/03/24
LEAP – 049 04/04/24
The promotion runs from 3rd October to 31st December 2023. Full terms and conditions are available on the Leading Edge website.
