WHY SFC?

About Us.

At SFC, we exist to help those with a passion for aviation turn their dreams into reality.

OUR STORY

Our flying club.

SFC began in 1969 when a small group of local aviation enthusiasts gathered to discuss the idea of starting a flying club. Their dream was to create a community that would promote and support aviation, providing a space for like-minded people to come together and share their passion for flying. Over the years, our club has grown in size and reputation, becoming the largest aviation club on the eastern seaboard.

Today, SFC is a well-respected flight training organisation that is shaping the next generation of pilots in Sydney and regional NSW, while still remaining true to its roots as a club at its core.

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SFC Club members sitting at table having lunch on a flyaway

1967

It starts with a passion

Likeminded aviation enthusiasts would meet up at local clubs to discuss the idea of starting a flying club.

Old member fabric badge with Schofields Flying Club and a light plane embodied

1968

Schofields Flying Club named

An initial meeting of pilots was held at Schofields Aerodrome where it was resolved to form a club to be known as The Schofields Flying Club.

Legacy shot of early SFC club members standing in a line

1969

Schofields Flying Club is officially formed

The foundation president was David Godwin. The club had now become a fully operational entity.

1975

Borrowed aircrafts

Up until this point all aircraft were borrowed including the Cessna 172 and C150, a Beechcraft Musketeer and an AirTruck.

1976

Our First Air Show

The Air Show was held on 26 September 1976 with the aim to buy an aircraft with the profits. It lasted about two hours and was a great success.

Old image of an SFC club member standing in front of a Piper Warrior

1977

First aircraft purchase

Schofields Flying Club took delivery of the Piper Warrior on a Friday in February 1977; VH-PZC for $23,000.

1979

British Airways Boeing 747 flys down the runway

The highlight of the 1979 Air Show was the 747 flying down the runway at 200 ft with flaps and undercarriage down.

Award Presentation at SFC Air Show in 1970s

1981

The biggest Air Show in Australia

It was quite remarkable that a little flying club in Western Sydney, was organising the biggest Air Shows ever seen in Australia.

1988

Australian Bicentennial Air Show (ABAS)

Schofields Flying Club was commissioned to run the Australian Bicentennial Air Show.

1989

Focus shifts to flight training

Volunteers would occupy the front desk, refuel planes and taxi aircraft to and from the Blimp hanger (established by Alan Bond).

Aerial view of the coast from a light aircraft with the propeller in view

1995

Alas, vale Schofields Aerodrome!

The last plane departed Schofields for its new home in Bankstown. Our new home was to be at Henry Lawson Drive.

1998

Delivery of a brand new Piper Archer III - VH SFR

This aircraft was the first in the Club to have an IFR GPS - a King KLN94. A basic GPS ground course was introduced to familiarise members with GPS operation.

Group of SFC Members pictured on a flyway

1999

Challenging flyways

By now members were looking for challenging flyaways. Weekend flights to Mudgee and Dubbo were a common event on the social calendar.

Senior flight instructor speaking to a student pilot in the SFC Clubhouse at Birch Street

2000

We become a Registered Training Organisation

The club became a Registered Training Organisation with VETAB accreditation. With the establishment of the RTO, Sydney Flight College was born.

Internal shot of cockpit in the SFC Piper Warrior III

2001

SFC purchases a new Piper Warrior III - VH SFK

This was fitted with a Garmin GNS40 and was popular among private Club members.

2006

A challenging period

SFC faced a period of decline in flying hours and private hire due to an unstable economy.

Entrance of SFC Clubhouse at 60 Birch Street, Bankstown Aerodrome

2007

SFC moves to 60 Birch St, Bankstown Aerodrome

We designed the current Clubhouse to meet our requirements as a Flying Club with the ability to expand in the future.

In air shot of plane flying over a river with propeller in view. Image taken from the cockpit

2010

Flying hours exceed 11,000 hours, a club record

A new club record is set with 65% of hours training related.

Student pilots studying in SFC Clubhouse

2014

SFC joins with Sydney TAFE Ultimo

In partnership with Sydney TAFE, Sydney Flight College grows to new levels.

Instructor and Student Pilot in the cockpit of a light aircraft pointing out the window during flight training

2015

A year of growth

Instructors at SFC gained formal teaching qualifications. Fleet enhancements contributed to increased capacity.

Close up shot of female student pilot studying the SFC Clubhouse

2020

We becomes a VSL provider on Wednesday 9th September 2020

SFC becomes a VET Student Loans approved course provider.

2021

SFC invests in six 2021 Piper Archer® TX's

Aircraft unveiled on 11 Nov 2021, 20 years to the day of our last new aircraft the Piper Warrior SFK. SFC parts ways with TAFE, acquiring its own VET approval.

Shot of Airline Pilot in SFC's 737 Simulator

2022

Modern investments

Our state of the art 737-800NG Simulator finds its home at SFC's Head Office, 109 Drover Rd, Bankstown; opening up multiple opportunities including Flight Experiences, Airline Preparations and Multi Crew Co-operation.

Group shot of club members standing in front on an aircraft after a club event

2023

Focus on club events and growth

Increase in club events and flyways driven by our committed team of club coordinators.

Two members of the SFC board standing in front of a new Archer LX being assembled by SFC Maintenance

2024

Acquisition of new aircraft to expand our flying capacity

Purchase of 2 new Piper Archer® LX Aircraft to provide our members with even more opportunities for exceptional flying experiences.

SFC President using our new Virtual Reality Simulators at Birch Street

2024

Introduction of Virtual Reality Simulators

2 new state of the art True Course VR Simulators, for rusty pilots programs and initial diploma flight training sequences in Birch St.

Group of pilots standing in front of plane

OUR VISION

To bring the world's closer by shaping tomorrow's pilots.

Our vision reflects our core purpose of educating and training aspiring pilots to become skilled and responsible aviators who can safely navigate the skies and contribute to a more connected world.

OUR MISSION

We empower aviators by giving them everything they need to fulfil their passion.

We are passionate about providing the best possible aviation experience for our members and students, empowering them to achieve their aviation goals through state-of-the-art aircraft, world class facilities, and experienced instructors.

SFC Flight Instructor with fist in air and student with a thumbs up in front of a Cessna 182T after successful completion of a flight test.

OUR VALUES

What makes us different?

Pilot holding the controls in the cockpit with propeller in view.

Student looking up at Instructor explaining content in a classroom at SFC Pilot Academy Tamworth.

Flight Instructor stepping into the cockpit of the Piper Archer TX

WHY SFC?

Our Values.

A passion for flying

Since 1969, "A Passion for Flying" has been a core value at SFC, reflecting our deep respect and love for aviation and our unwavering commitment to sharing that passion with others.

Live best practice

We strive to be at the forefront of industry best practices. As a leading flight training organisation, we understand the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest developments in aviation technology and regulations to deliver the best possible aviation experience.

Just safety culture

At SFC, we prioritise a Just Safety Culture that emphasises accountability, transparency, and prompt reporting of safety concerns. We believe that safety is a shared responsibility, and we encourage all members, students, and staff to report any safety issues without fear of retaliation.

Celebrate the wins

At SFC, we believe that celebrating the wins is essential to creating a culture of positivity and motivation. From our students' first solo to our instructors' successful completion of advanced training programs, as well as the contributions of our office staff, at SFC all achievements are recognised.

Opening opportunities

Our core value of opening opportunities fuels our initiatives and campaigns. Whether it's increasing female representation in aviation, our connection programs, or other initiatives, we are constantly working to break down industry barriers and empower individuals to realise their full potential.

Integrate to industry

OUR GRADUATES

SFC Students - where are they now?

Many of our former students have gone onto stellar airline careers, from regional airlines to major international carriers. Our pilot licence courses are designed to make you a commercial and airline-ready pilot, equipping you with the essential skills and knowledge required for the aviation industry.

Our state-of-the-art simulators and experienced instructors provide realistic and practical flight training scenarios, giving our students a competitive edge in the professional pilot job market. As a result, our graduates are highly sought after.

Diagram of companies where SFC Graduates have worked

GRADUATE CAREERS

International Airline Pilot

Domestic Airline Pilot

Regional Airline Pilot

Business Jet Pilot

Flight Instructor

Charter Pilot

Agricultural Pilot

Government Services Pilot

LEARN TO FLY

Explore all courses.

Discover the right course for you and take the next step in your aviation journey. We offer a wide range of courses designed to help you reach your goals and support your passion for flying.

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OUR PEOPLE

Meet our team.

Each member of our team brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and passion for aviation, ensuring that our members and students receive the highest quality training and support.

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