Bachelor of Science (Hons) -
AIR TRANSPORT WITH HELICOPTER PILOT TRAINING

Do you want to become a commercial helicopter pilot? We can help you achieve your dream. We are one of the few programmes that allows you to gain a PPL as well as a university degree – and at a lower cost than doing them separately.
You’ll work with one of our UK-leading helicopter training schools to complete your PPL, the first step towards your CPL (H) and a career in the exciting world of rotary wing aviation.
Why study this subject?
The aviation industry keeps the world moving and a career in this sector promises unique opportunities.
This programme is aimed at those who wish to develop the skills, knowledge and employability profile that will provide them with the opportunity to pursue a career in business, leisure or emergency services. With the aviation industry everchanging, this programme is continuously adapted to meet these ongoing changes so you can be sure you’re receiving up-to-date knowledge.
Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?
With BSc (Hons) in Air Transport with Helicopter Pilot Training, you’ll work with one of their UK-leading training partners towards your PPL or ATPL. Focused modules and study will develop your skills and prepare you for a successful career in rotary wing aviation.
They have a strong focus on employability, and their training partners and professional connections give you the chance to immerse yourself in the industry. Our close proximity to Heathrow and other major UK airports – along with their suppliers – means you’re perfectly placed for networking, seasonal jobs and work placements that are available.
At BNU, you will learn from skilled lecturers within the School of Aviation and Security who have a high level of working knowledge, based on industry experience. Their teaching will allow you to gain a deep insight into the latest trends and requirements of air transport.
As well as receiving top-class lectures and seminars, students are also supported by personal tutors, module leaders and course leaders. In addition, guest speakers often deliver sessions for students within the University to enrich their learning – previously they have welcomed speakers from TUI, British Airways, Ryanair and Gatwick Airport.
At BNU, they recognise roles in this field are hands-on – that’s why you’ll take part in simulated learning experiences throughout the course using our specialised facilities, including our FNPT II Flight Simulator. You’ll also be able to use their library to support your studies, whether you’re looking for the resources you need or just a quiet place to study.
As part of your studies, you’ll enjoy free membership of the Royal Aeronautical Society, the UK professional association dedicated to the aerospace and aviation industry. As a member, you will be able to participate in a number of exciting industry events, including conferences, guest talks, student competitions, and networking opportunities.
If you are interested in the military world, UK students will be eligible to apply for a place in our regional University Air Squadron (part of the Royal Air Force) offering unique access to military flying and adventurous training.
Buckinghamshire New University's top 5 tips before applying
Before you make an application, they recommend you to consider the following:
- There are additional costs involved with this course, in addition to the University’s tuition fees. The University does not offer any loans as they are not a financial institution. Students often get funding from private bank loans as well as student finance to pay for the tuition fees. Seek professional financial help to understand what it means for you.
- Make sure you understand the differences between a UK CAA Licence and an EASA Licence; your chosen flight school will be able to offer some guidance on this.
- Understand the UK CAA/EASA Class 1 (Commercial Pilots) or Class 2 (Private Pilots) medical requirments, and check that you can successfully hold such licenses, before committing to the flight training.
What facilities can You use?
BNU invested in a range of state-of-the-art facilities across their campuses to support your learning. We’re one of the very few UK universities to have an FNPT II Flight Simulator and as a student pilot you’ll have exclusive access and will be able to gain vital experience, without leaving the ground.
Alongside this, our other specialised simulation facilities allow you to experience real-life airport scenarios, developing your abilities in airfield planning and operations, and crisis and emergency management.
What will you study?
Throughout the course, you’ll study key modules in instruments, radio navigation, meteorology and operational procedures. You’ll also cover broader areas of air transportation such as aviation finance and economics, airport operations and airline management.
You’ll develop skills in leadership, adaptability and self-reliance. You’ll also study operational and sustainable management, strategic concepts and theories. We look at trends in the industry to make sure your knowledge is up-to-date and regularly adapt our courses to reflect the most recent changes within the air transport industry.
Our practical training partner Heli Air offers modular training, including the ATPL (H)/IR ground school, turbine ratings, twin turbine ratings and the flight instructor rating.
How will you be taught and assessed?
BNU has over 20 years’ experience in running this course and you will be taught by professional pilots with many years’ worth of experience.
You will also benefit from the team’s connections and valuable networking opportunities. Industry-leading professionals often deliver talks and presentations, providing valuable insight into the profession.
What are your career prospects?
Throughout your time with BNU they'll support you on the route to your chosen career. BNU will help you to develop crucial skills, encouraging you to become enterprising and skilled leaders and support you in your search to find employment after graduation.
On successful completion of this programme, you’ll be the proud owner of a Commercial Helicopter Pilot Licence and a frozen ATPL (H) – this will enable you to find employment as a helicopter pilot. You could also choose to start your own business providing freight services or recreational flights, or become a flying instructor.
Your ATPL will remain frozen until you meet the relevant professional experience, at which point the ‘frozen’ prefix will be dropped.
As you’ll have also developed a wider understanding of the airline business, you can also choose to pursue a variety of different careers within the aviation industry.
If you’re interested in undertaking further study or specialising in a certain field, you can choose to study one of our renowned postgraduate programmes, such as:
- MSc Aviation Security
- MSc International Aviation Regulation and Law
- MSc Aviation Operations and Management
- MSc Organisational Resilience
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