Why Study Flight Instruction at Massey

• Become a certified flight instructor (CAA NZ ‘C’ Category Rating)
• Only programme in NZ combining university diploma + flight instructor training
• Designed for:
  • Commercial pilots wanting to teach flying
  • Aviation professionals upgrading their qualifications
• Includes both:
  • Academic learning + practical flight training (dual component courses)

 

Programme Structure / Subjects

The programme includes 8 courses (120 credits) combining theory + practical instruction:

Core Flight Instruction Courses

• Introduction to Flight Instruction
• Flight Instruction Fundamentals I
• Flight Instruction (Integrated course)
• Flight Instructor Human Factors

Advanced Aviation Training

• Aerobatic Aircraft Handling
• Additional aviation courses (200–300 level electives)

 

Key Learning Areas

• Teaching & instructional techniques in aviation
• Simulator and in-flight training methods
• Human factors (decision-making, communication)
• Aerobatics and advanced aircraft handling
• Aviation safety and performance

 

Disciplines / Specialisations

Within Graduate Diploma in Aviation:

• Flight Instruction (your chosen specialisation)
• Aviation Studies (alternative option)

 

Highlights of the Programme

• Gain CAA NZ Flight Instructor Rating (‘C’ Category)
• Combines teaching + flying skills
• Access to real aircraft + simulators
• University qualification + professional licence together
• Strong pathway to aviation careers

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates can work as:

• Flight Instructor
• Aviation Trainer
• Pilot Instructor (flying schools)
• Aviation Safety Trainer

Also a pathway to:

• Airline pilot roles (after gaining flight hours)
• Aviation management or further study

 

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Selected entry programme (competitive)
• Must complete:
  • 120 credits
  • At least 75 credits at 300 level
• Must achieve:
  • CAA NZ instructor competencies
• Includes:
  • Aerobatic endorsement
  • Night instructor endorsement removal

 

Final Summary

The Flight Instruction – Graduate Diploma in Aviation at Massey University is ideal if you:

• Already hold a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
• Want to become a certified flight instructor
• Aim to build flight hours and aviation teaching career

This programme stands out because it offers:

• University qualification + flight instructor rating
• Strong practical training (aircraft + simulator)
• Direct entry into aviation teaching careers