The Philippines has become the top choice for pilot training among Maldivians, as well as students from other countries in the region, with Royhle Aviation Academy being a preferred training school. According to Madhu Puliyankalath, the head of training of the academy, this trend is influenced by several factors. Firstly, the Philippines has witnessed remarkable growth in its aviation sector, making it an appealing destination for aspiring pilots. Additionally, the country offers well-equipped airports that provide excellent facilities for training purposes.
Madhu highlighted the benefits of having large airports with extended runway usage for pilot training. Compared to other countries, the Philippines provides students with more time and opportunities to utilize runways during their training, which in turn enhances practical experience and contributes to a comprehensive pilot training curriculum.
Over the past few years, the Royhle Aviation Academy has experienced a significant rise in enrollment, particularly among Maldivian students pursuing pilot training. The academy, which previously had only a few Maldivian students, now accommodates 15 students in its program. Since 2019, a total of 50 Maldivian pilots have graduated from the academy, and many of them have secured employment with local airlines in the Maldives
A significant advantage of completing pilot training in the Philippines is the streamlined course structure, which allows students to complete the program within the designated time period. Unlike other courses that may require additional components, graduates of the Royhle Aviation Academy can immediately join an airline upon completion of their training.
Madhu further emphasized the flexible fee payment options provided by the Royhle Aviation Academy. The academy offers students the flexibility to pay their training fees in instalments rather than requiring a lump sum payment.
The Royhle Aviation Academy offers a 14-month pilot training program. Located at Dumaguete Airport in Sibilan, the academy benefits from the airport's eight daily flight operations.
"This ensures that students can efficiently utilise their flight time without unnecessary delays. At busier airports, students might have to wait for around 45 minutes, resulting in a loss of approximately 70 hours of flight time during 200 hours of training," explained Madhu.
The Higher Education department has recently granted loans to 500 students, enabling them to pursue studies in aviation and further promoting the growth of the industry in the Maldives.
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