L3Harris-University of Central Lancashire Unveil Pilot Pathway

L3Harris Technologies is partnering with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) to launch a new degree program to combine academic study with professional pilot training – helping widen the pool of potential pilots and contribute to increasing diversity within the industry.

The degree combines pilot training with BSc (Hons) in aviation. The pilot degree is part of the IASTI and ENGAP UK initiative and will be delivered at L3Harris’ facilities in Cranfield and the London Training Centre (LTC) in Crawley, near Gatwick. The program commences in September 2021 and will be accessible to aspiring pilots from all backgrounds.

The new course satisfies the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) requirements and regulations, meaning students will graduate with an Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) alongside their BSc (Hons) degree. The goal is to enrich the core skills needed to pursue a rewarding career on the flight deck or in aviation management.

“This new pathway will genuinely transform the way future pilots are selected, trained and funded, opening up the industry and dismantling the many entry obstacles that have existed for too long,” said Captain James Smart, IASTI Pilot Pathway Lead.

Students will start with the theory of flying during ground school at the LTC, before progressing to Single and Multi-Engine flying to earn their Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with Instrument Rating (IR) certification. During the final year of the degree program, students will be placed with an Airline and undertake work-based modules to complete their studies while starting their career in aviation.