SFC Pilot Academy Tamworth Elevates Training with World-Class Boeing Technology

Leading Australian flight training academy, SFC, continues to solidify its position as the nation’s premier pilot training institution by integrating the cutting-edge ForeFlight electronic flight bag system into its pilot training program. This initiative is part of an exclusive collaboration with global aerospace leader Boeing.

ForeFlight, a subsidiary of Boeing, is a state-of-the-art application that is accessible on iOS mobile devices and the web. It streamlines access to crucial in-flight information and documentation, enhancing pilot efficiency and situational awareness.

Announced at Australia’s largest bi-annual aerospace industry airshow in Avalon, Victoria, this strategic relationship underscores SFC’s commitment to delivering high quality flight training enhanced by advanced technology. By incorporating ForeFlight, SFC introduces technologies used by airlines, which accelerate the student pilot experience and prepares them for potential airline employment and operations.

Widely adopted by major airlines, ForeFlight enables pilots to submit flight plans, access live weather updates, review maps and aircraft operation manuals, assess potential in-flight obstacles, and estimate glide distances—all within a single, intuitive platform. This technology enhances safety, reduces cockpit distractions, and optimises operational efficiency.

In addition to consolidating multiple reference materials that would traditionally occupy valuable cockpit space, ForeFlight contributes to SFC’s sustainability initiatives by reducing reliance on single use paper products. SFC’s collaboration with Boeing reflects the organisations forward-thinking leadership and its dedication to modernising flight training with industry-leading technology.

SFC President, Steven Kastanias, one of four representatives at the signing of the relationship, stated: “Today’s collaboration reflects SFC’s maturity and organisational efforts which are delivering on our ambition to be Australia’s lead flight training provider. The strategic alignment with ForeFlight means we offer training that seamlessly transitions students from the training into professional, commercial environments”.

SFC Director, Frank Peronace, an experienced private IFR pilot, underscored the significance of this integration: “Our commitment to excellence extends beyond the cockpit. Providing students with access to advanced technology like ForeFlight is a key part of our mission to prepare them for success in the airline industry. This relationship reflects our dedication to innovation, operational efficiency, and student achievement.”

SFC Director, Stephen Ho, highlighted the operational advantages of ForeFlight: “The platform offers an extensive array of detailed aircraft profiles and a streamlined flight plan update process. Air Traffic Control receives updates made within ForeFlight in seconds, demonstrating its efficiency and reliability.”

SFC Head of Flight Operations, Andrew McIntosh, emphasised the impact of this collaboration: "The best flight training mirrors the technology used by the world’s top airlines. Our relationship with ForeFlight ensures our students develop hands-on familiarity with modern airline systems, giving them a competitive edge in the industry."

Located at the former Royal Australian Air Force training facility in Tamworth, SFC’s Pilot Academy delivers a comprehensive and advanced flight training program designed to equip students with the skills required to become fully qualified commercial pilots in just 12 months.

In addition to the Commercial Pilot Licence and Multi-Engine Instrument Rating modules offered at its Sydney base, SFC provides training in Multi-Crew Cooperation and Upset Prevention Recovery Training. The academy has already deployed new aerobatic training aircraft, with a state-of-the-art simulator set to arrive soon, further enhancing the training experience.

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