Top 10 Aviation Schools in Nigeria: Here is a guide on how to Start Your Aviation Career in Nigeria

Have you ever dreamed of soaring through the clouds, navigating the skies as a pilot, or working inside an airplane cabin as a flight attendant? If yes, you’re not alone. Many young Nigerians aspire to build careers in aviation, a sector that promises excitement, good pay, and international exposure. But the big question is: Where do you start?

Choosing the best aviation school in Nigeria can be tricky with so many options around. From flight training to cabin crew preparation, the right school can make all the difference in your aviation career journey. Today, we’re discussing the top 10 aviation schools in Nigeria while sharing what makes each unique, what you should expect, and practical tips on how to succeed in the career.

Ready? Let’s take off!

Why Choose an Aviation Career?

Before we jump into the list, let’s chat about why aviation is such a fantastic career choice:

Growing Industry: Nigeria’s aviation sector is expanding, with increasing domestic and international flights.
Diverse Roles: From pilots to air traffic controllers, engineers, and flight attendants (also called air hostesses), there’s a place for everyone.
Travel Opportunities: Work with airlines or airports and get a chance to travel the world.
Competitive Salary: Aviation jobs tend to pay well compared to many other fields.

If you’ve ever wondered, “how to be a flight attendant?” or “how many years will I study in aviation school?”, keep reading as we cover those too.

What to Look for in an Aviation School in Nigeria

Not all aviation schools are created equal. Here are key factors you should consider:

Accreditation: Ensure the school is recognized by Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Authority.
Training Equipment: Up-to-date simulators, aircraft, and training tools.
Experienced Instructors: Qualified professionals with real-world experience.
Course Variety: Programs covering pilot training, cabin crew, aviation management, and maintenance.
Industry Connections: Partnerships with airlines or airports for internships.
Fee Structure: How much is aviation school fee? (Expect a range depending on the course.)

The Top 10 Aviation Schools in Nigeria

Here’s a well-researched list of the top 10 aviation school in Nigeria, based on quality of training, reputation, and student reviews.

1. Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria

NCAT is Nigeria’s flagship aviation training institution and arguably the best aviation school in Nigeria. Founded in 1964, it offers courses in pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and air traffic control.

Why Choose NCAT? It’s fully accredited and recognized internationally.
Duration: Pilot training usually takes about 2-3 years.
Fees: Vary depending on the course, but generally competitive.

2. Crestgate Aviation Academy, Lagos

Specializes in pilot training and aviation management. Crestgate also offers programs on how to be a flight attendant and customer service.

3. Aviation and Flight Training Centre, Abuja

Known for professional pilot training and cabin crew courses. They offer preparatory classes for aspiring flight attendants.

4. Flynet Aviation Academy, Lagos

Focuses on both pilot training and aviation safety courses, with flexible study durations and part-time options.

5. Aero Flight Training Centre, Lagos

Offers full pilot licenses and courses in aviation management. They emphasize hands-on training.

6. KAP Aviation Academy, Lagos

Popular for cabin crew training and aviation customer service programs. Great choice if you’re wondering how to be an air hostess.

7. EHS Aviation Academy, Lagos

Offers a broad range of aviation courses, including flight school, aviation maintenance, and flight attendant training.

8. Royal Aviation Academy, Abuja

Known for affordable aviation courses with good facilities and experienced trainers.

9. Aero Academy International, Lagos

International standard training programs for pilots and aviation engineers.

10. Prime Aviation Academy, Lagos

Offers pilot training and aviation safety courses, known for small class sizes and personalized attention.

Read Also: Air Hostess Salary in Nigeria: Full Breakdown and Career Guide for 2025

How Long Will I Study in Aviation School?

The study period depends on your chosen career path:

Pilot Training: Typically 2-3 years, including ground school and flight hours.
Flight Attendant Training: Usually 6 weeks to 3 months.
Aviation Maintenance & Engineering: 2-3 years.
Aviation Management: 1-2 years for diplomas or degrees.

So if you’ve been wondering, “how many years will I study in aviation school?” the answer varies but generally ranges from a few months (for flight attendants) to 3 years (for pilots and engineers).

How Much is Aviation School Fee in Nigeria?

A common question! The cost depends on the school and program:

Pilot training: Can cost from ₦4 million to ₦10 million or more for full training.
Flight attendant courses: Usually between ₦100,000 and ₦300,000.
Aviation management/maintenance: Varies widely but often between ₦500,000 to ₦2 million.

Tip: Always confirm fees directly with the school and inquire about payment plans.

How to Be a Flight Attendant in Nigeria: Quick Guide

If your dream is to work as cabin crew, here’s a simple roadmap:

Complete Secondary Education: Minimum of WAEC or equivalent.
Attend Flight Attendant Training: At a reputable aviation school (like KAP Aviation Academy).
Develop Soft Skills: Communication, customer service, and emergency response.
Get Certified: Most schools provide certification upon course completion.
Apply to Airlines: Nigerian airlines like Arik Air, Air Peace, or Dana Air regularly hire cabin crew.

Courses offered in aviation school – Core Aviation Courses

Below is a list of popular courses offered in aviation school, grouped by category, along with a brief explanation of each:

1. Private Pilot License (PPL)

2. Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

3. Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

4. Instrument Rating (IR)

Cabin Crew & Flight Attendant Courses

5. Cabin Crew Training / Air Hostess Course

Duration: 4–12 weeks
Description: Prepares you for a career as a flight attendant, covering in-flight service, safety, and first aid.

6. Customer Service in Aviation

Aviation Engineering & Maintenance Courses

7. Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME)

8. Avionics Engineering

Duration: 2–3 years
Description: Focuses on electronic systems in aircraft, such as navigation, communication, and flight control systems.

Air Traffic & Ground Operations

9. Air Traffic Control (ATC)

10. Flight Dispatcher Training

Duration: 6–12 months
Description: Trains professionals to plan flight paths, monitor weather, and ensure safe departures and arrivals.

11. Ground Handling & Airport Operations

Aviation Management & Business Courses

12. Aviation Management

Duration: 1–2 years (Diploma/Degree)
Description: Teaches the business and administrative side of aviation—airport operations, airline marketing, etc.

13. Logistics & Transport Management

Duration: 1–2 years
Description: Focuses on cargo, freight, and logistics services within and outside the aviation sector.

Specialized & Short Courses

14. Drone Pilot Training

Duration: 1–4 weeks
Description: Covers how to fly drones professionally, often used in media, agriculture, and surveillance.

15. Safety and Emergency Procedures

Duration: 1–2 weeks
Description: Teaches crisis response, fire control, and emergency landing techniques (vital for crew members).

16. Dangerous Goods Handling

Bonus Tips

Not every school offers all these courses—check the school’s curriculum before enrolling.

Always confirm that the program is approved by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

Extra Tips for Choosing Your Aviation School

Visit schools in person if possible.
Talk to current students and graduates.
Research job placement records.
Look for alumni success stories.

Conclusion

Choosing the top 10 aviation school in Nigeria is your first step toward an exciting career in the skies. Whether you want to become a pilot, an air hostess, or work in aviation management, the right training makes all the difference. Remember to consider accreditation, fees, course length, and reputation.

Are you ready to take off? Drop your questions in the comments or download our free aviation career starter guide to get personalized tips and resources!

FAQ: Aviation Schools & Flight Attendant Careers in Nigeria

Q1: How to be a flight attendant in Nigeria?
To become a flight attendant, complete secondary education, attend a certified aviation school with cabin crew training, develop key customer service skills, and apply to airlines.

Q2: How much is aviation school fee in Nigeria?
Fees vary by program. Flight attendant courses may cost ₦100,000–₦300,000, while pilot training can range from ₦4 million to ₦10 million, depending on the school.

Q3: How many years will I study in aviation school?
Pilot training generally takes 2–3 years. Flight attendant training lasts a few months. Engineering and management courses vary from 1 to 3 years.