The Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) (CRICOS course code 109199H) is a Diploma delivered by Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd over 48 weeks (~11 months). This CRICOS-registered program is designed for international students aiming to become commercial pilots. Offered at Tristar Aviation's base in Mentone, Victoria, the course combines theoretical instruction with practical flight training, preparing graduates for the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) exam. Tristar Aviation is a private provider (CRICOS 01933B) with a focus on aviation training. As a HeadStart Academy listed course, all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you access trusted information. Whether you're starting from scratch or upgrading existing qualifications, this diploma provides a pathway to a career in aviation. Please note: flight training requires additional medical and licensing steps beyond this course—always consult the provider and CASA for full requirements.
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Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) (CRICOS course code 109199H) is a Diploma delivered by Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd over 48 weeks (~11 months). This AQF Level 5 qualification falls under the field of Engineering and Related Technologies (0315 - Aerospace Engineering and Technology, specifically Aircraft Operation). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The course is taught in English at Tristar Aviation's facility in Mentone, Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian government standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, drawing on the official CRICOS register, which lists over 1,500 providers and 26,000 courses across Australia.
At Diploma level, students typically engage in advanced study of aircraft operation, including flight planning, navigation, meteorology, human factors, and multi-engine operations. The curriculum is designed to develop the knowledge and skills required for safe and effective commercial flight operations under the relevant civil aviation regulations. Graduates are prepared for roles such as commercial pilots, flight instructors, or aviation managers. This field also covers safety management systems and aeronautical decision-making. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with Tristar Aviation, the general focus is on both theoretical understanding and practical flight experience, aligning with CASA licensing requirements.
The course duration is 48 weeks (~11 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes and flight training at the Mentone campus. The intensive structure allows completion in under a year, making it an efficient pathway to a Commercial Pilot Licence.
The indicative fees for this course are set by Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd and sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Tuition is A$59,945, with no non-tuition fees specified, resulting in an estimated total of A$59,945. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included in this amount. For the most current fees, always visit the provider's website at http://www.tristaraviation.com.au/ . Fees are subject to change and are indicative only.
Entry requirements typically include an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants are expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. Additionally, for a Commercial Pilot Licence pathway, students must hold a valid CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate and usually a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) or equivalent experience. Some providers may also require a flight test or interview. These are general guidelines; exact prerequisites should be confirmed directly with Tristar Aviation. If you need to improve your English or meet academic prerequisites, consider pathway programs or foundation studies offered by other CRICOS-registered providers.
There is no mandatory work component included in this course. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living expenses while studying in Australia. Always check your visa conditions for the most up-to-date work rights.
This course is delivered at Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd — Mentone, VIC. Mentone is a coastal suburb of Melbourne, approximately 25 km south-east of the city centre. Melbourne is home to over 250,000 international students and offers excellent public transport, including train services to Mentone Station. The campus is located at Mentone Airport, providing direct access to runways for flight training. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$400–500 per week for rent, food, and transport, though this varies. Victoria has many CRICOS-registered providers, with over 300 in Melbourne alone, offering diverse study options.
Melbourne is a major aviation hub with several flight schools and airports. The city's moderate climate allows for year-round training, though weather can be variable. Studying in Mentone offers proximity to Melbourne's CBD while maintaining a suburban feel. Consider factors such as living costs, transport, and the availability of part-time work. Melbourne's multicultural environment also provides a rich experience for international students. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you receive quality education with ESOS Act protections.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You will also need to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies, so you must demonstrate a genuine intention to study in Australia. Financial capacity evidence is required. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) at Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify that Tristar Aviation (CRICOS 01933B) meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check the entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications, and medical clearance) and submit your application through Tristar Aviation's website. Be mindful of application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa, ensuring you also arrange OSHC and prepare evidence of financial capacity.
Ready to take off? Explore this course on HeadStart Academy and start your application with Tristar Aviation today.
Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.