Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter) (CRICOS course code 113819F) is a Diploma delivered by Flight Training Adelaide Pty Ltd over 45 weeks (~10 months). This course is designed for international students aiming to become commercial helicopter pilots. Graduates will gain the skills and knowledge required for a Commercial Pilot Licence (Helicopter) in Australia. The course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Flight Training Adelaide, a private provider based at Parafield Airport, South Australia, has been training pilots for years. With a focus on practical flight training and theoretical knowledge, this diploma prepares students for a career in aviation. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from ESOS Act protections. Read on to learn about fees, entry requirements, and how to apply.
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Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter) (CRICOS course code 113819F) is a Diploma delivered by Flight Training Adelaide Pty Ltd over 45 weeks (~10 months). This qualification (AQF Level 5) falls under the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology, specifically Aircraft Operation. It is designed to provide the competencies for a Commercial Pilot Licence (Helicopter) as per the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements. The course includes both flight training and ground theory. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is available to international students who meet the entry requirements. Flight Training Adelaide Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02649J) is a well-established private provider offering this course at its Parafield Airport campus.
Students in this course cover subjects related to aircraft operation, navigation, meteorology, flight planning, and helicopter handling. The curriculum is designed to meet CASA licensing standards. Graduates typically gain the ability to operate a helicopter safely in various conditions, manage flight operations, and comply with aviation regulations. This diploma provides a pathway to a career as a commercial helicopter pilot in Australia or overseas. Note: specific syllabus details should be confirmed with the provider.
The course duration is 45 weeks (~10 months) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification). It is a full-time program. The course does not include foundation studies.
Indicative tuition fees are A$87,921, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$89,921. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For the most current fees, visit the Flight Training Adelaide website. Always confirm fees directly with the provider before applying.
General guidance: English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected: completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Additionally, students must meet CASA medical requirements for a commercial pilot licence. Foundation or pathway options: contact Flight Training Adelaide for alternative entry or pathway programs.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at Flight Training Adelaide Pty Ltd — PARAFIELD AIRPORT, SA. Parafield Airport is located about 20 km north of Adelaide's city centre. South Australia has a growing aviation industry with several training providers. Adelaide offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent around $200-$300, groceries $80-$120, and public transport $40-$60. The campus is accessible by car or public bus from Adelaide.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). It is important to comply with visa conditions. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. For this course, ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (Flight Training Adelaide, CRICOS 02649J) and the course has CRICOS code 113819F. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test, prior qualifications, medical) and application deadlines. Submit your application to Flight Training Adelaide. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have a CoE, you can apply for a visa through the Department of Home Affairs.
South Australia offers a unique environment for pilot training. With Parafield Airport as a dedicated general aviation airport, students experience less congestion than major international airports. Adelaide has a Mediterranean climate with good flying weather. The state has a growing aviation sector and connections to mining and tourism industries which require helicopter pilots. Cost of living in Adelaide is generally lower than in eastern capitals, making it an attractive option for international students. However, consider that your training location may affect your employment opportunities after graduation. South Australia also has several other CRICOS-registered providers offering aviation courses.
Ready to take off? Start your application process today by checking your eligibility and contacting Flight Training Adelaide.
Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Flight Training Adelaide 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.