WHY TAMWORTH?

Why Tamworth?

The perfect fusion of authentic Australian culture and high octane flying, Tamworth offers year round weather conditions that are perfect for your flight training, as well as a fresh country environment for the full Australian experience.

Long distance shot of the ATC Tower at SFC Pilot Academy Tamworth
Rural aerial shot of the Tamworth region.
In air shot of SFC Piper Archer TX flying over a rural Australian landscape.
In air shot of TX Archer flying over Tamworth
Shot of people in a crowd at a concert with their hands in the air, looking towards the stage.
Tamworth Golden Guitar
REGION

Train in one of Australia's largest inland cities.

Situated on the banks of the Peel River, Tamworth is rooted deep within Australia’s agricultural heart, having been considered the ‘most luxuriant country’ for livestock. In the years since its foundation, the town has grown to Australia’s second largest inland city, proud of its country heritage and forward-thinking vision.

POPULATION

65,246

ANNUAL FESTIVALS

5

THINGS TO DO

Entertainment at your fingertips.

Second only to Nashville in country music, Tamworth is a spiritual haven to those who love to boot scoot, where the masses flock for its annual Country Music Festival. Tied closely to this country soul, the city is known for some of the best food around, with local wineries and breweries abound.

Shot of people in a crowd at a concert with their hands in the air, looking towards the stage.
Tamworth Country Music Festival

Experience the renowned Tamworth Country Music Festival, usually held in January. Enjoy live performances, street concerts, and various events celebrating country music.

Two people looking out at Oxley lookout Tamworth
Natural wonders

Explore the region's natural beauty. Some popular options include Oxley Scenic Lookout and the expansive Botanic Gardens, which span 28 hectares.

Close up of plate of food.
Shopping and dining

Tamworth offers a wide range of shopping and dining options to suit everyone. Peel Street is the main shopping area, with boutique stores and major retailers, while the city's food scene has something for all tastes.

Tamworth Golden Guitar =
Arts and culture

Art and museum enthusiasts are spoiled for choice with multiple galleries and museums. Tamworth is also home to three major entertainment centres catering for local, national and international artists and shows.

TAMWORTH REGIONAL AIRPORT

A rich aviation heritage.

Although Tamworth Regional Airport was first ready for use in 1956, the city’s original airport held flight training as far back as 1940, with the Royal Australian Air Force conducting flight training for those who would dominate the skies. Fast forward to 1992, the airport became home to a world-class pilot training facility, with every element designed for the optimal flight training experience.

Today, Tamworth Regional Airport is now home to the next generation of professional pilots, boasting accommodation for 224 students, recreational facilities, and wide-open spaces perfect for flight training.

FIRST OPENED

1956

FLIGHTS PER DAY

8

LOCATION FROM TOWN

9.3km

In air shot of TX Archer flying over Tamworth
WEATHER

300+ suitable flying days per year.

Tamworth enjoys an exceptional climate, ideal for pilot training. It is acknowledged for its high number of clear weather days per annum, which is supported by the official Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology data. The Tamworth area, according to data, has, on average, well over 300 clear flying days per annum.

That means more time flying and less time grounded. It's no wonder the city has such a rich aviation heritage.

EXPLORE

Tamworth regional map.

Check out our regional map. It's a great way to get a better understanding of where you will be living for the next 12 months.

DOWNLOAD NOW
Illustrated map of Tamworth region.
COMPARE COURSES

College or Academy?

Embarking on a career in aviation is an exciting and fulfilling journey, but it often requires a clear understanding of the different pathways available. We’ve broken down our course packages so you can decide the right path for you.

HELP SECTION

FAQs.

If you don't find the answer to your question, reach out to our team for further assistance. We're here to help!

CONTACT US
How many hours will I need to allocate for the pre-course work?

The pre-course work comprises of the foundational Recreational Pilot Licence theory. You will be issued with an online module to work through and a log in to Moodle to complete practice tests.

Can I attend the PAT if I’m 17 years old?

To enrol at SFC Pilot Academy Tamworth, you are required to be at least 18 years old.

OR

To enrol at SFC Pilot Academy Tamworth, you must have celebrated your 18 birthday.

Can I go home during my training?

There is a scheduled 2 week break halfway through your 12 month training commitment. Should you need to leave the Academy for any length of time, you will be required to seek approval from the Head of Flight Operations.

Where will the CASA exams be conducted?

Aspeq in Tamworth.

Do I need to live at the Academy?

During your flight training, you will be surrounded by likeminded people in a fully immersive accelerated aviation program. In order to achieve the course outcomes, you will be required to live onsite at the Academy.

Where will I live and what's included?

You will reside on campus at the SFC Pilot Academy in Tamworth, with your accommodation just a five-minute walk from our operations and flight training facility. Living on campus provides you with complete immersion in an aviation training environment. Our all-facilities are tailored to help you focus on your training.

What's included?

  • Three meals per day including snacks
  • Free WiFi
  • Towels and linen are provided
  • Access to recreational spaces including pool , gym and outdoor courts.
Can my partner/parents/children visit while I’m training?

Only students of the SFC Pilot Academy will be permitted to stay onsite. Visitors may be permitted to stay in some circumstances. This is a request basis only and will require approval from the Head of Flight Operations.

Will I have my own bedroom and bathroom facilities?

Yes, you will be assigned with your own 27 m2 apartment, including a private ensuite.

Is there a laundromat? Do I need to provide anything?

There are shared laundry facilities within each accommodation block. Please provide your own laundry detergent.


Can I use VET Student Loans to pay for the food and accommodation levy?

If you have booked using a voucher, we require you bring the original voucher information on the day for redemption.

Please have your voucher details via your smart phone or a printed copy ready for your Pilot to redeem, failure to do so may result in refusal of flight.

What additional items should I take with me to the Academy?

Definitely bring:

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Toiletries (including soap/shower gel)

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Laundry detergent/washing powder

Bring for your homely creature comforts:

  • Pillow

If you’d like a little extra:

  • Vehicle/Bicycle & helmet
  • Recreational equipment. Eg: Soccer/Basketball/Football
  • Recreational/sporting clothing, including swimwear
  • Access to a streaming service. Eg: Netflix
What dietary requirements will be catered for?

SFC will cater to all dietary requirements.

Are snacks and water provided?

Yes, all snacks, water and three meals per day are provided.

Is the facility secure?

Every student will be issued with a security access card.

Will I have any days off?

Sundays will be your scheduled day off.

What recreational facilities will I have access to and do I need to pay for anything extra?

Within the Academy, you will have access to Basketball and Tennis courts, a soccer field, swimming pool and access to a gym. If you would like to utilise these facilities, please bring your own recreational equipment and clothing.