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If you're looking to study aviation in Malaysia, you're choosing one of the best destinations for aspiring pilots and aviation professionals. Malaysia offers top-tier aviation schools and affordable training programs that attract students from around the globe.
Exploring Civil and Military Aviation in Malaysia: What You Need to Know
Aviation, or air transport, covers a range of activities and industries associated with flying or operating a plane.
There are primarily two types of aircraft operation, which are civil aviation and military aviation.
Let's take a look at these two types of aviation.
a) Civil Aviation
Aviation in Malaysia covers a broad range of activities related to flying, including both civil aviation and military aviation. Civil aviation involves the use of aircraft for transporting goods or passengers, either for personal or business purposes.
It is divided into two categories:
- Scheduled air transport: It is strictly for commercial and business use, and
- General aviation: It can be for private or commercial purposes, often for personal travel.
b) Military Aviation
Military aviation in Malaysia plays a key role in conducting or enabling aerial warfare using flying machines, including military aircraft. In Malaysia, the Royal Malaysian Air Force (Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia or TUDM) is responsible for the Army Aviation unit. It plays a significant role in safeguarding the nation's airspace.
TUDM carries out operations such as offensive airstrikes, defensive counter-air, and defensive suppressive, which are essential for national security. Additionally, TUDM is also responsible for air combat rescues, which further reinforces their commitment to protecting the country's citizens.
Which universities offer aviation courses in Malaysia?
Civil Aviation
1. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a renowned public research university offering one of the top aviation courses in Malaysia. Its Aeronautical Engineering program, a specialization within Mechanical Engineering, provides a solid foundation for those looking to study aviation in Malaysia. The course covers key areas like aerodynamics, aircraft structure, flight dynamics and control, propulsion, and aircraft design. Additionally, students benefit from a 12-week industrial placement, giving them practical experience and exposure to the aviation industry.
2. Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM)
Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) is one of the few public universities offering a comprehensive Bachelor of Aviation Malaysia. The program focuses on aeronautical engineering technology, equipping students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in the aviation industry. UTHM offers two specialized aviation courses in Malaysia:
- Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering Technology (Professional Piloting) (Honours)
- Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering Technology (Aircraft Maintenance) (Honours)
Upon completion, students will be equipped with theoretical and practical knowledge in aviation to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) or Aircraft Maintenance Engineer License (AMEL).
Visit their website for more information on the minimum intake requirements.
3. Malaysian Flying Academy (MFA)
Due to the constantly changing nature of the industry, MFA continues to engage with airlines and industry specialists to introduce improvements in the syllabus offered. The aviation courses offered by MFA are accredited by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM). With a maximum intake of 20 cadets per batch, MFA adheres to CAAM's strict requirements to ensure high training standards.
The MFA does not offer diploma or degree programs. Instead, they offer courses such as:
- Private Pilot's License (PPL)
- Commercial Pilot's License (CPL)
- Airline Transport Pilot's License (ATPL)
- Assistant Flying Instructor License (AFI)
4. HM Aerospace (HMA)
HM Aerospace is a flight training academy under the Halim Mazmim Group. Malaysia Airlines (MAS) selected it as one of its preferred training centers for its cadets. The training center of HMA is located in Pulau Langkawi, right next to the Langkawi International Airport.
5. Layang Layang Helicopter Academy (LLHA)
LLHA is one of the few flight training academies in Sabah. The academy owns various training aircraft like Cessna 172 Skyhawk, Bell 206, and Eurocopter AS 355 to provide students with the best resources. LLHA also continuously engages with industry specialists, and the CAAM accredits its courses. LLHA offers complete training for Fixed Wing and Rotary Wing, holding both ATPL and PPL and CPL licenses.
6. International Aero Training Academy (IATAC)
IATAC is located in Melaka, ideal for flight training with its low-lying terrain. To help cadets pass the Theoretical Knowledge Exam conducted by the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority, IATAC provides the most up-to-date Computer-based Training (CBT), giving cadets a better advantage to pass the exam and enjoy higher employment prospects. IATAC offers pilot training courses like CPL, Abridge Course, and Flight Simulator Training.
Military Aviation
If you would like to join The Malaysian Army Aviation, the application can be made through the application portal of The Malaysian Army. Recruits will be offered to join The Malaysia Army Aviation as young soldiers of the Air Force. They will need to report themselves to undergo training based on their locations.
- Peninsular Malaysia: Akademi Tentera Udara, Ipoh
- Sabah: Terminal Feri Labuan
- Sarawak: TUDM, Kuching
Recruits who pass the selection will have to undergo training for 6 months before they are assigned to a position as a member of The Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM).
How Much Does It Cost to Study Aviation in Malaysia?
The cost to study aviation in Malaysia varies depending on the program and institution. For a Private Pilot's License (PPL), the estimated cost is around RM60,000 for a 3-month course. Commercial Pilot's License (CPL) programs generally cost about RM398,000, while Airline Transport Pilot's License (ATPL) training is approximately RM360,400. Specialized courses such as the Assistant Flying Instructor License (AFI) may also incur additional costs.
Overall, the investment in aviation training in Malaysia can be substantial, reflecting the high standards and comprehensive nature of the programs offered.
Aviation Training: How to become a Pilot in Malaysia?
To fly an aircraft, an individual must possess a pilot license. Let's learn more about each of them.
1. Private Pilot's License (PPL)
PPL is an entry-level course that equips cadets with the basic skills to pilot a single piston-engine aircraft confidently.
The flight training includes 45 hours of flying and 100 hours of ground school.
Entry requirement:
- Minimum age of 17.
- Able to read, write, and communicate in English.
- Meet Class 2 medical requirements.
- Pass theoretical knowledge examinations and skill tests (by a CAAM-approved Flight Training Organization).
- Estimated cost: RM60,000 (3 months).
- Meet all the regulatory licensing requirements.
2. Commercial Pilot's License (CPL)
CPL cadets are trained with the basic skills to fly a commercial aircraft.
As for this license, candidates will be evaluated under the Civil Aviation Authority Malaysia guidelines upon completing over 20 months with a minimum of 200 hours of flying experience.
Entry requirement:
- Minimum age of 17.
- Fluent in the English Language.
- 5 credits (including English, Mathematics, and Science) in SPM/O-level/Equivalent
- A valid Malaysian Class 1 Aircrew Medical Certificate.
- Letter of approval from the CAAM
- Estimated cost: RM398,000.
3. Airline Transport Pilot's License (ATPL)
ATPL is a complementary course for cadets with an existing CPL.
This course involves 165 flying hours on a single-engine aeroplane and 35 flying hours on a twin-engine over 20 months.
Entry requirement:
- Fluent in the English Language.
- Existing and valid CPL.
- A valid Malaysian Class 1 Aircrew Medical Certificate.
- Letter of approval from the CAAM.
- Estimated cost: RM360,400.
4. Assistant Flying Instructor License (AFI)
AFI is a course designed for trained pilots to become qualified flying instructors.
To complete this course, candidates must fulfill the training syllabus requirements by completing a minimum of 125 hours, as outlined in the CAD and CAGM guidelines.
Entry requirement:
- Minimum age of 21 years old.
- Letter of approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia.
- Existing and valid Malaysian Commercial Pilot License / Instrument Rating (Aeroplane).
- A minimum of 200 flying hours on aircraft before the commencement of the course.
- Pass the medical examination Class 1 from a CAAM Designated Medical Examiner.
- Fluent in the English language (Level 4 is acceptable).
Top Career Paths for Aviation Graduates in Malaysia
Aviation graduates in Malaysia have a wide range of career opportunities across various sectors. Organizations like Malaysia Airline System, AirAsia, AIROD, SME Aviation, Malaysia Helicopter Services (MHS), TLDM, and PDRM Air Unit are actively seeking skilled professionals.
Additionally, the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM) also requires aviation talents for operating, maintaining, and managing different types of aircraft.
Career Paths:
Commercial Pilot: A commercial pilot needs to have a CPL and ATPL to be a professional pilot who can be paid to fly.
Aeronautical Engineer: Aeronautical engineers work with aircraft. They are involved primarily in designing aircraft and propulsion systems. They also study the aerodynamic performance of an aircraft and construction materials.
Air Traffic Controller: An air traffic controller requires rapid decision making. The job of an air traffic controller is to prevent collision between aircraft in the air and on the land and maintain an orderly flow of air traffic.
Airport Operation Manager: The airport operation manager oversees all aspects of business management, economics, public relations and personnel management of an airport.
Aircraft Maintenance Technician: An aircraft maintenance technician is responsible for the safety of the aircraft by diagnosing, replacing and repairing aircraft parts, mechanical problems and electrical problems.
These diverse roles highlight the various pathways available for those looking to study aviation in Malaysia and build a career in this dynamic field.
Aviation Courses: Head's Up!
The aviation program may seem like a unique and exciting course. Unlike the more common courses such as business, finance, or engineering in Malaysia, it offers a distinct quality.
However, pursuing the aviation program can be a costly learning journey.
The expensive cost of the aviation program is both literal and metaphorical.
It is due to several factors, such as technological advancements, infrastructure, faculty expertise, and more. Therefore, if you are interested in this course, consider the education fees and future carefully.
You may have been inspired by a famous Hollywood movie featuring Tom Cruise.
However, it is important to focus on the education journey rather than the end goal of a job.
Before you secure a job, you need to complete your aviation study. It includes flight training (for flight programs), obtaining a certificate, hands-on training, and more.
Hence, it is crucial to reconsider the entire process and not just the final outcome.
