Becoming a professional pilot in Nigeria requires world-class training from a certified aviation school. With the growing demand for pilots in local and international airlines, enrolling in a reputable pilot school is the first major step to building a successful aviation career. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top 10 pilot schools in Nigeria for 2025, their admission requirements, training programs, and estimated tuition fees.
1. Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria
Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
Programs: Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Instrument Rating (IR)
Tuition Fee: ₦7 million – ₦10 million
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum of 5 O’Level credits including Mathematics, English, Physics
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Medical fitness certificate (Class 1 Medical)
- Ability to pass NCAT aptitude and interview test
2. International Aviation College (IAC), Ilorin
Location: Ilorin, Kwara State
Programs: PPL, CPL, Multi-Engine Rating
Tuition Fee: ₦6 million – ₦9 million
Admission Requirements:
- WAEC/NECO/GCE with 5 credits in science-related subjects
- Minimum age: 17 years
- Medical Certificate from approved aviation doctor
- Written test and oral interview
3. Landover Aviation Business School (LABS), Lagos
Location: Ikeja, Lagos
Programs: Flight Dispatcher, Private Pilot Training (theoretical only), Cabin Crew Training
Tuition Fee: ₦500,000 – ₦1.5 million
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum of SSCE or equivalent
- Good communication skills
- Basic computer literacy
- Age 18 and above
4. Sky Aviation Training Center, Lagos
Location: Lagos
Programs: PPL, CPL, Instrument Rating
Tuition Fee: ₦6 million – ₦8.5 million
Admission Requirements:
- 5 credits in O’Level including Physics, Maths, English
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Must pass school’s internal screening
- Class 1 medical certificate
5. Dhaewood Aviation Business School (DABS), Lagos
Location: Ikeja, Lagos
Programs: Pilot Ground School, Flight Dispatch, Air Ticketing
Tuition Fee: ₦300,000 – ₦2 million (varies by course)
Admission Requirements:
- SSCE/WAEC with credits in science subjects
- Age: 18 years and above
- Proficiency in English Language
- Medical fitness
6. Obafemi Awolowo University Aviation Training School
Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
Programs: Ground School Training for Pilots, Aeronautical Courses
Tuition Fee: ₦500,000 – ₦1 million
Admission Requirements:
- 5 O’Level credits including Maths and Physics
- Must be physically and mentally fit
- Minimum age: 18
- Entrance test
7. Airbourne Aviation School, Lagos
Location: Lagos
Programs: PPL, CPL, Flight Operations
Tuition Fee: ₦5 million – ₦9 million
Admission Requirements:
- 5 credits in O’Level results
- Must be at least 17 years old
- Pass internal school screening
- Class 1 medical certificate
8. Universal School of Aviation, Lagos
Location: Ejigbo, Lagos
Programs: Pilot Training (Theoretical), Cabin Crew, Travel Agency Operations
Tuition Fee: ₦300,000 – ₦2 million
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum SSCE/WAEC result
- Good command of English
- Must be 18 years or older
- Internal assessment test
9. Skywalker Aviation Training School, Abuja
Location: Abuja
Programs: Pilot Training, Flight Dispatcher, Aviation Management
Tuition Fee: ₦6 million – ₦8 million
Admission Requirements:
- WAEC/NECO/GCE with 5 credits in science-related subjects
- Must pass Class 1 medical test
- 18 years and above
- School aptitude test
10. Machaviation Flight School, Enugu
Location: Enugu
Programs: PPL, CPL, Advanced Flight Theory
Tuition Fee: ₦6.5 million – ₦9.5 million
Admission Requirements:
- O’Level credits in English, Mathematics, Physics, and two other subjects
- Must pass medical and physical fitness tests
- Age: 18+
- School screening and interview
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum age to start pilot training in Nigeria?
Most aviation schools require candidates to be at least 17 or 18 years old before they can begin pilot training.
2. Do I need a university degree to become a pilot in Nigeria?
No, you don’t need a university degree. A minimum of five O’Level credits, including English, Maths, and Physics, is usually sufficient.
3. How long does it take to become a pilot in Nigeria?
The average duration is 12 to 18 months depending on the school, weather conditions, and student performance.
4. Can I get financial aid or scholarships for pilot training?
A few institutions and state governments offer limited scholarships. It is advisable to contact schools directly for available funding options.
5. Is the training license valid internationally?
Most Nigerian aviation schools are approved by NCAA and follow ICAO standards, which makes their licenses internationally recognized.
6. What is the cost of pilot training in Nigeria in 2025?
The cost ranges from ₦6 million to ₦10 million, depending on the program (PPL, CPL, ATPL) and the school.
Conclusion
Becoming a pilot is a rewarding journey, and Nigeria has several top-tier aviation schools to help you reach the skies. Whether you're focused on affordability, reputation, or specific programs, the schools listed above offer quality pilot training in 2025. Always review each institution’s admission requirements, facilities, and NCAA accreditation before enrolling.
If you're ready to start your aviation journey, choose a school that aligns with your goals and begin your flight to success!
