Royhle Aviation Academy, located in Dumaguete City, Philippines, has received approval and accreditation from the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA) as an Approved Training Organization (ATO).
This validation aligns Royhle with the stringent standards of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), establishing the Maldives as a leader in adopting top-tier aviation practices in South Asia.
The MCAA's recognition marks a significant milestone, as Royhle becomes the first academy outside the Maldives, aside from one in Barcelona, Spain, to receive this status.
This accreditation underscores the academy's commitment to international aviation standards, opening new opportunities for aspiring pilots.
As one of the most stringent aviation regulators in South Asia, the MCAA adheres to the rigorous EASA standards, further solidifying Royhle's reputation as a leading training institution, particularly for Maldivian students pursuing careers in aviation.
Following a comprehensive inspection process by the MCAA, Royhle has established itself as the primary choice for Maldivian students.
The ATO approval certificate was awarded during a special ceremony in the Maldives, attended by key figures from the MCAA, including Chairman Abdul Haris and Chief Executive Hussain Jaleel.
Representing Royhle were President and Founder Captain Chanbyung Park, Head of Training Captain Madhu Puliyankalath, CEO Catherine Cristales, Head of Quality Control and Assurance Claire Marino, and Head of Sales and Maldivian Student Welfare Captain Joyance John.
“This accreditation confirms that the training provided at Royhle is among the best in the world. Previously, Maldivian students completing their Commercial Pilot License (CPL) had to navigate additional requirements for the EASA-approved Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). Now, our graduates can pursue a streamlined path to obtaining a Maldives Pilot License, including the CPL Multi-Engine Type Rating and Instrument Rating,” Captain Madhu Puliyankalath said.
With the newly acquired ATO status, students at Royhle can earn both a Philippine CPL and a Maldives CPL, making it an attractive option for aspiring pilots.
The academy offers a diverse training program that includes 25 different aerodromes for cross-country training, allowing students to gain practical experience in environments similar to the Maldives.
Besides the training in a coastal environment the students also gets to experience and train mountainous terrains.
Royhle has already welcomed over 90 Maldivian students into its 2025 intakes, with an anticipated 200 graduates by year’s end.
Many alumni are now successfully flying with prominent airlines such as Trans Maldivian Airways, Manta Air, and the national carrier, Maldivian.
In a commitment to inclusivity, Captain Madhu noted that the academy welcomes students who have previously trained at other institutions and wish to obtain a Maldives license.
“Our doors are open to those looking to transfer their flying hours or complete their training with us,” he said.
Additionally, Royhle is dedicated to nurturing future flight instructors, providing a pathway for Maldivian students to become instructors themselves. This initiative enhances employability and equips students with valuable experience in the competitive global aviation industry, Royhle said.
One of the features of Royhle’s training program is its efficient timeline, where students can complete their training within 14 to 15 months, with consistent course fees and dedicated flight time ensured by the academy's unique operational advantages.
Dumaguete Airport serves as the sole flying school in the region, providing students with ample opportunities for immediate flight operations.
During the visit to the Maldives to collect their certificate, the executive team from Royhle also organized a networking session attended by over 100 aspiring aviators and successful graduates currently employed in the aviation industry.
This event fostered connections and shared valuable insights, reinforcing Royhle Aviation Academy’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of pilots.
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