PILOT SCHOOLS IN GHANA
- National School of Aeronautics
- CR Aviation
Welcome:
Read some useful information on how to choose a pilot school in Ghana, a destination for those looking to become pilots. While Ghana currently lacks a significant number of pilot schools, there are still a few options available that provide training at various levels of pilot certification. Despite the limited availability, the weather in Ghana is generally favorable for flying, allowing small aircraft training year-round. The living expenses in Ghana are relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for both local and international students.
Admission:
Admission is an important step in starting your pilot training. For those interested in pursuing aviation studies in Ghana, there are pilot schools offering different courses and certifications. The process typically involves submitting an inquiry via email or phone, where potential students can get information on how to begin their training. The Civil Aviation Authority of Ghana governs all training regulations. The process usually takes a few weeks to complete, especially for international students who need to process visa applications.
Ground School:
Ground school is a critical component of any pilot’s training. It involves learning the theoretical aspects of aviation, such as navigation, meteorology, aircraft systems, and flight planning. The training helps prepare students for the written exams required for all types of licenses and ratings. In Ghana, the pilot schools use ground school to ensure that students understand aviation theory before progressing to flight training. The ground school typically covers the syllabus for private pilot licenses (PPL), commercial pilot licenses (CPL), and airline transport pilot licenses (ATPL).
Single Engine Airplane:
Single-engine airplanes are the most common aircraft used for training new pilots. It’s important to ensure that the pilot school you choose owns well-maintained single-engine airplanes. Commonly used aircraft include the Cessna 172 and Piper, both of which are reliable and cost-effective options for learning how to fly. These airplanes are ideal for beginners and are essential for obtaining private and commercial pilot licenses.
Multi Engine Airplane:
Multi-engine aircraft are required for more advanced training and are typically used to prepare pilots for airline standards. Although training in multi-engine airplanes is not yet widely available in Ghana, there are many opportunities for pilots to train abroad in countries like South Africa or the United States. These countries have well-established flight training centers that provide multi-engine ratings, a necessary qualification for many commercial airline jobs.
Simulator:
Simulators are an essential tool for pilots to practice emergency procedures and instrument flying in a controlled environment. If you are considering training in Ghana, it’s important to check if the pilot school has flight simulators available for instrument training. While simulators are not widely used in Ghana, future pilot schools are likely to invest in these devices. Flight simulators are valuable for training pilots to fly in poor weather conditions or to perform instrument approaches.
License:
Pilot licenses in Ghana are awarded by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), following the ICAO regulations. The first license that most student pilots will earn is the Private Pilot License (PPL), followed by the Commercial Pilot License (CPL) for those wishing to fly for a living. Once a student pilot gains significant experience and flight hours, they can apply for an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), which is necessary for becoming an airline captain. In Ghana, licenses can be converted internationally once the appropriate training is completed.
Rating:
Ratings are additional qualifications added to a pilot’s license to allow them to fly aircraft under specific conditions or types of aircraft. Common ratings include night ratings, instrument ratings, and multi-engine ratings. In Ghana, ratings are typically available for students who already hold a valid PPL or CPL. Ratings are a requirement for many aviation jobs, particularly those with airlines or commercial operators.
Special Training:
Special training programs may include type ratings for specific aircraft or instructor ratings for those wishing to become flight instructors. Type ratings are required for pilots who wish to operate specific types of aircraft, while instructor ratings are necessary for those wishing to teach others how to fly. While these training programs are not currently available in Ghana, students may need to travel to other countries where these specialized courses are offered.
Conclusion:
When choosing a pilot school in Ghana, consider the available options carefully. Ghana has a few pilot schools, but the training standards may vary. It’s essential to ensure that the pilot school is registered with the Civil Aviation Authority and adheres to ICAO regulations. As there are no flight simulators and multi-engine training options widely available in Ghana, prospective pilots may need to consider training in countries like South Africa or the United States to complete advanced training.
While pilot training in Ghana is still developing, there are opportunities to begin training locally and then complete advanced certifications abroad. By choosing the right school, you can begin your journey to becoming a professional pilot and eventually secure employment with airlines or private aviation companies.