Our Academy
Become a Qualified Commercial Pilot in Sydney
SFC’s Double Diploma of Aviation prepares you for a professional aviation career in just 16 months. Face-to-face training, modern fleet, and expert instructors, everything you need to take flight with confidence.
Is this you?
SFC’s Commercial Pilot Package | Double Diploma of Aviation offers a comprehensive, full-time training program designed to equip aspiring pilots with the essential licences, ratings, and technical skills needed for a professional aviation career. In just 16 months, this all-inclusive program provides a complete education - delivered face-to-face at Sydney Flight College, Bankstown Aerodrome.
Imagine
this!
dream of flying.
From your first flight lesson to your final test, you’ll build the confidence, precision, and skill that define a professional pilot.
Fly aircraft such as the Piper Warrior, Piper Archer TX, and Piper Seminole - and experience advanced simulation with SFC’s Redbird full-motion simulators.
Graduate with both a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (MEIR) - essential for professional and airline pilot careers.
Master the art of flying with experienced instructors by your side. You’ll develop the expertise and precision to become a successful pilot.
Imagine the pride and joy on your family's faces as they see you walk across the tarmac in your pilot uniform. You’ve not only achieved your own dreams but given them a reason to share in your success. Hearing them proudly tell their friends, “My child is a pilot,” makes every hour of training worth it.
At SFC, you’re not just learning from any flight school. With 55+ years of experience in aviation training, we know what it takes to shape tomorrow’s pilots.
Premier flight training in Sydney.
Now let’s talk details. Here’s how SFC’s Double Diploma of Aviation prepares you for a professional career in aviation. This full-time program combines your Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (MEIR), giving you the licences, skills, and experience to take your first step into the industry.
(Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane)
The Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) Diploma of Aviation (AVI50222) is the required licence for those who want to work as a pilot in the aviation industry, (domestic, international airlines and charter companies).
(Instrument Rating)
Includes Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (MEIR)
The Multi-Engine Instrument Rating is considered the peak of professional qualifications for commercial pilots. The MEIR allows pilots to fly in full Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) at all phases of the flight, at all times.
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Piper Cherokee
The SFC Piper Cherokee is the ideal training aircraft, combining stability and ease of handling for student pilots. Its responsive flight characteristics and spacious cockpit create a comfortable learning environment. With a reputation for reliability, the Cherokee equips aspiring pilots with the skills they need for a successful flying career.
Multi-Engine Trainer
Reliable, durable, and advanced, the SFC Multi-Engine Trainer combines a proven design with cutting-edge avionics and a modern cockpit. Offering an easy transition from single-engine aircraft, it serves as an ideal platform for training, equipped with all the technology needed to prepare students for today’s airlines.
Redbird FMX
The Synthetic Trainer’s electric motion platform and wrap-around visuals are based on a typical training aircraft and provide the most realistic training experience possible, making you better prepared for real-world flights.
Still here? Let's decide if this is for you.
You’re serious about building a professional career in aviation.
You’ve dreamed of becoming a pilot and you’re ready to take the next step. Our Double Diploma offers a clear, structured pathway to get you there - combining both your Commercial Pilot Licence and Multi-Engine Instrument Rating in one full-time program.
You want to be industry-ready in just 16 months.
You’re looking for a program that gives you the qualifications, flight hours, and confidence to start your aviation career faster, with hands-on training and professional mentorship throughout your journey.
You want to train but can’t relocate.
You’re ready to start your training but need to stay close to home - and Sydney Flight College gives you that option. Train full time at Bankstown Aerodrome, Sydney’s aviation hub, without leaving the city.
You’re looking for hands-on, real-world experience.
You don’t just want to learn from textbooks. You want to fly real aircraft, operate professional simulators, and learn directly from experienced pilots who’ve built careers across the aviation industry.
You want qualifications recognised by airlines.
You’re focused on becoming employable. With your CPL and MEIR, you’ll meet industry standards for commercial operations and have the credentials needed to pursue charter, business jet, or airline pathways.
You’re not ready to commit full time.
Becoming a professional pilot takes focus, discipline, and consistency. This course is designed for students who are ready to dedicate themselves fully to their aviation training.
You’re only looking to fly recreationally.
This program is for those who want to turn flying into a career. If you just want to experience flying for fun, one of our short or self-paced courses may be a better fit.
You’re not prepared for the intensity of professional training.
The Double Diploma requires both practical flying and theory study, including self-study hours each week. If you’re not ready for that level of commitment, this might not be the right time.
What you'll get from the course.
Hours
Hours
Hours
Months
Hours
Hours per week
Piper Cherokee
Multi-Engine Trainer
Redbird MCX
Flying
Fuel
Landing fees
Simulator
Theory
Theory books
Briefings
Primary Instructor
Exam costs (1st attempt only)
Flight test costs (1st attempt only)
Student Training Manual
SFC facilities
Member benefits
27m2 studio apartment
3 meals per day including snacks
Recreational spaces
+ $8,120 for Food and Accommodation
Study now.
Pay later.
We are proud to be a VET Student Loans approved course provider (RTO 90866) for the Airline Pilot Package - AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) includes Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) & Upset Prevention Recovery Training (UPRT) + AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating)
This program provides eligible students with loans to pay for their tuition fees, which are then repaid via the Australian tax system once the minimum income threshold for repayment has been reached.
Schofields Flying Club Limited Trading as SFC | RTO 90866
SFC Students - where are they now?
Many of our former students have gone onto stellar airline careers, from regional airlines to major international carriers. Our pilot licence courses are designed to make you a commercial and airline-ready pilot, equipping you with the essential skills and knowledge required for the aviation industry.
Our state-of-the-art simulators and experienced instructors provide realistic and practical flight training scenarios, giving our students a competitive edge in the professional pilot job market. As a result, our graduates are highly sought after.
GRADUATE CAREERS
International Airline Pilot
Domestic Airline Pilot
Regional Airline Pilot
Business Jet Pilot
Flight Instructor
Charter Pilot
Agricultural Pilot
Government Services Pilot
Why study at SFC
Train with one of Australia’s most established flight colleges. With over 55 years of aviation training excellence, Sydney Flight College has built a reputation for professionalism, safety, and success. Based at Bankstown Aerodrome, our Sydney campus offers full-time, face-to-face training led by experienced instructors using a modern fleet and advanced simulators. As a not-for-profit organisation, every dollar goes back into our students, facilities, and aircraft - ensuring a training experience that’s practical, professional, and built for your future in aviation.
How do I secure my spot?
Learn to fly with the best. The SFC team are always looking for interested and ambitious students. Take the next step in your aviation career and apply for our Commercial Pilot Package.
Applications are open year-round, with quarterly intakes.
Based at Bankstown Aerodrome, Sydney
A chance for you to visit the clubhouse and college campus and check out our training fleet in person. A Course Advisor will explain all relevant information about the Commercial Pilot Package and answer any questions you may have.
Club Membership
SFC is a non-for-profit flight school, and all students are required to hold a Full Club Membership. This will give you access to participate in flyaways, club events and discounts.
Application Form
To commence the Application Process, complete the SFC Application Form. This will hold your position in the course.
Based at Bankstown Aerodrome, Sydney
ARN
An Aviation Reference Number (ARN) is used as an identification tool by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), as you commence flight training, all your results and licences will be linked to this number. Apply for your Aviation Reference Number (ARN) HERE either using CASA's online portal, myCASA, or by using Form 1162.
Diploma Numeracy Assessment
An online assessment designed to ensure all applicants have the foundational numeracy skills required.
Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) Assessment
An online assessment designed to ensure all applicants have the foundational language and literacy skills required.
Proof of HSC
A scanned copy of your Higher School Certificate (HSC) or AQ certificate 4 or higher must be provided.
Aptitude Test and Personality Profile
During the COMPASS Aptitude Test, a variety of hand-eye-foot coordination, spatial orientation, multi-task management and short term memory assessments will be conducted via an online portal. The COMPASS Personality Test will deliver a summary of your profile based on 15 personality competencies.
Class 1 Medical
A class 1 medical is required by all commercial pilots at all levels of aviation. It is a yearly requirement to assess your physical and mental health.Delays may affect your enrolment.
Based at Bankstown Aerodrome, Sydney
Flight Screening Assessment
The Practical Assessment is designed to give you, the applicant, a chance to experience a taste of flight training prior to commencing the Airline Pilot Package. Throughout the session you will be assessed on three main areas: Airmanship, Execution and Acumen.
Trial Flight
Time - Two Hours
Undergo your trial flight assessment with SFC.
Based at Bankstown Aerodrome, Sydney
Screening Interview
During your Screening Interview you will meet with individuals from different departments within SFC. The objectives of the interview are to assess motivation, discuss application results and course requirements. You will need to provide proof of your identity and age (original form of ID required: Drivers Licence, Passport or Birth Certificate if applying for a VET Student Loan.)
Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC) Application
Following a successful Screening Interview, you will be guided through the application process for an Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC).
Delays may affect your enrolment.
You must be at least 18 years old to sit the Commercial Pilot Licence Flight Test, be able to speak and understand English at Level 6 and be able to hold a Class 1 Medical.
Upon successful completion, you will hold the CASA Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and the Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (MEIR), which allows you to fly anywhere within Australia and the world in clear weather conditions during the day. You will also obtain the CASA Manual Propeller Pitch Control (MPPC) design feature. (To be assessed)
The Commercial Pilot Package with SFC takes about 16 months to complete, based on 5 lessons per week.
The package is full time, face-to-face. It involves 212 hours of flying time and requires approximately 25 hours of weekly self-study. The total course duration is 16 months.
To pass the CPL Flight Test and obtain a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), you must meet several requirements. You need to be at least 18 years old, and have completed a minimum of 200 flight hours, including solo flight, cross-country navigation training, and basic instrument flying. A Class 1 Medical certificate from CASA is mandatory, along with successfully passing an English Language Test.
The CPL Flight Test lasts about 3.5 hours.
To become an airline pilot, you need a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). Many airlines also require a Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (MEIR), Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC), and Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) theory credits. Upset Prevention Recovery Training (UPRT) is preferred. Pilots typically gain experience through charter flying, agricultural flying, flight instructing, or tourism flying. With 500–1500 flight hours, depending on demand, you can apply for airline roles.
To become a certified commercial pilot, you must hold a CASA Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and meet the following qualifications:
• Accumulate a minimum of 150 flying hours.
• Obtain endorsements such as the Manual Propeller Pitch Control (MPPC) design feature if required by your role.
• Meet the English Language Proficiency requirements at Level 6.
• Hold a valid Class 1 Medical Certificate.
• Gain any additional endorsements or qualifications required for specific aviation roles, such as multi-engine, instrument rating, or type ratings, depending on your career path.
These qualifications, combined with experience and additional training, will prepare you for various roles in commercial aviation.
During your first flight training block, you will enjoy a 10 week stay at SFC Pilot Academy Tamworth. This is to ensure your initial flying lessons are conducted with high frequency in a fully immersed environment. The alternate location offers a stable and reliable solution, operating independently of the Sydney airspace.
During your flight training, you will be surrounded by likeminded people in a fully immersive aviation program. In order to achieve the course outcomes, you will be required to live onsite at the Academy.
The food and accommodation levy is not eligible to be included in a VET Student loan, this will be an out-of-pocket expense to each student.
The Pilot Academy Tamworth is a secure facility. Each student will be issued with a security access card.
You will reside on campus at the SFC Pilot Academy in Tamworth, with your accommodation just a five-minute walk from our operations and flight training facility. Living on campus provides you with complete immersion in an aviation training environment. All facilities are tailored to help you focus on your training.
What's included?
- Three meals per day including snacks
- Free WiFi
- Towels and linen
- Access to recreational spaces including pool , gym and outdoor courts.
Within the Academy, you will have access to Basketball and Tennis courts, a soccer field, swimming pool and access to a gym. If you would like to utilise these facilities, please bring your own recreational equipment and clothing.
Only students of the SFC Pilot Academy will be permitted to stay onsite. Visitors may be permitted to stay in some circumstances. This is a request basis only and will require approval from the Head of Flight Operations.
Yes, you will be assigned with your own 27 m2 studio apartment, including a private ensuite.
There are shared laundry facilities within each accommodation block. Please provide your own laundry detergent.
Definitely bring:
Toiletries (including soap/shower gel)
Laundry detergent/washing powder
SFC Student Starter Pack
Electronic chargers
Uniform
Clothes
Bring for your homely creature comforts:
- Pillow
- Mattress protector/Topper
- Quilt/Doona
- Throw/Lap blanket
If you’d like a little extra:
- Vehicle/Bicycle & helmet
- Recreational equipment. Eg: Soccer/Basketball/Football
- Recreational/sporting clothing, including swimwear
- Access to a streaming service. Eg: Netflix
- Washing basket
SFC Pilot Academy Tamworth will cater to all dietary requirements.
Yes, all snacks, water and three meals per day are provided.