Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter) (CRICOS course code 114060G) is a Diploma delivered by Bankstown Helicopters Pty Ltd over 47 weeks (~11 months). This CRICOS-registered program is designed for international students seeking a career as a commercial helicopter pilot in Australia. Delivered at Bankstown Aerodrome in Sydney's southwest, the course combines theoretical knowledge with practical flight training. Bankstown Helicopters Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04192K) is a private provider specialising in helicopter training. The course is classified under field of education 031505 (Aircraft Operation) and corresponds to AQF Level 5. Graduates are prepared to meet the requirements for a Commercial Pilot Licence – Helicopter, a key qualification for professional flying roles. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource for international students, helping you navigate CRICOS-registered courses and providers across Australia.
Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter) (CRICOS course code 114060G) is a Diploma-level qualification (AQF Level 5) delivered by Bankstown Helicopters Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04192K). The course runs for 47 weeks (~11 months) and is taught in English. It falls under the field of Education 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically 0315 - Aerospace Engineering and Technology and 031505 - Aircraft Operation. The VET national code is AVI50322. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The course is intended for international students who wish to become professional helicopter pilots in Australia. Bankstown Helicopters Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS-registered provider based at Bankstown Aerodrome in NSW. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students are protected under the ESOS Act.
The Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter) covers the knowledge and skills required for safe and efficient helicopter operations. Students learn about aircraft operation, navigation, meteorology, flight planning, human factors, and regulatory requirements. Practical flight training is a core component, building proficiency in helicopter handling and emergency procedures. The curriculum is designed to meet the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements for a Commercial Pilot Licence – Helicopter. Graduates can pursue careers as helicopter pilots in charter operations, aerial work, tourism, and more. Note that HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; for specific syllabus details, contact Bankstown Helicopters directly.
The course duration is 47 weeks (~11 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is full-time in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award). The study mode is on-campus and practical flight training at Bankstown Aerodrome. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The course does not include a foundation studies program. Language of instruction is English, and students must meet the English proficiency requirements mentioned below.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter) is A$87,815, with non-tuition fees of A$0, giving an estimated total of A$87,815. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the provider. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the student visa application charge are not included. For example, OSHC costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year, and living costs in Sydney can range from A$20,000 to A$25,000 per year. Always confirm current fees directly with Bankstown Helicopters Pty Ltd by visiting their official website. Fees are subject to change.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) for this level. Prior academic qualifications expected include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may require a student pilot medical certificate and a security background check. For foundation or pathway options, contact Bankstown Helicopters directly. HeadStart Academy does not set entry requirements; these are determined by the provider. Always check the latest requirements with Bankstown Helicopters before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Subclass 500 student visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows students to gain work experience and support living costs while studying. Note that work hours are subject to visa conditions and changes in government policy.
The course is delivered at: 21 Link Rd, Bankstown Aerodrome NSW 2200 – BANKSTOWN AERODROME, NSW. Bankstown Aerodrome is one of Australia's busiest general aviation airports, located in Sydney's southwestern suburbs. The area is well-served by public transport, with train stations and bus routes connecting to the city centre. Sydney has over 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering aviation courses, making it a hub for pilot training. Typical living costs in Sydney for a single student are around A$1,800–A$2,500 per month including rent, groceries, and transport. Bankstown itself offers more affordable housing compared to the inner city.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. You must maintain enrolment with a CRICOS-registered provider and attend classes. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory; it helps cover medical expenses. For visa application advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter) at Bankstown Helicopters Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare aviation courses in NSW. Filter by course level, field, and city to find programs that match your goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Bankstown Helicopters Pty Ltd to check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application and required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE and financial requirements.
New South Wales, particularly Sydney, offers excellent opportunities for aspiring helicopter pilots. With Bankstown Aerodrome as a major training hub and over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, you have many options. Consider factors like course cost, duration, facilities, and provider reputation. Bankstown Helicopters Pty Ltd is a well-known private provider with a focus on helicopter training. The cost of living in Sydney is higher than in regional areas, but the employment prospects for pilots are strong. Always verify that your chosen provider is CRICOS-registered to ensure ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses and providers for free with no referral fees.
Start your journey to becoming a helicopter pilot today. Compare this course with other aviation programs in NSW on HeadStart Academy.
Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Bankstown Helicopters 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.