
Commercial Aviation
Launch Your Aviation Career with Pal Education, Perth!
Commercial aviation is one of the most dynamic and world wide in demand career pathways available today. Whether you dream of flying domestic passenger routes or want to pursue a career in defence aviation, the journey to the flight deck starts with the right training. Pal Education is a registered training organization (RTO) located in Perth, WA. The organization provides the AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot License – Aeroplane); It is a naturally recognized qualification that forms a part of the requirements for certification as a commercial pilot by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
At Pal Education, we have a strict theory based classroom instruction with hands-on practical flight training on real aircraft. Our commercial aviation program is introduced for both domestic and international students who want to pursue a professional aviation career and meet the standards of the modern aviation industry.
About the Course – AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation
The AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation includes the roles of flight crew personnel performing normal and emergency commercial pilot duties, conducting through commercial and charter along with cargo and defence aviation flight operations.
Graduates of this qualification will be eligible to apply both technical and non technical aviation skills and knowledge across a wide variety of real world air transport operations. Students evolve through their judgement and defined responsibility needed to operate as a professional commercial aeroplane pilot within established aviation safety frameworks.
This qualification is a part of the requirements for certification as a commercial pilot by CASA, as directed by Civil Aviation Safety Regulation (CASR) Part 61- Flight Crew Licensing.
Key Course Details at a Glance
Qualification Code: AVI50222
Qualification Title: Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence – Aeroplane)
Issued By: Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) – CASR Part 61
Total Units: 29 units (28 Core + 1 Elective)
Delivery Mode: Face-to-face classroom theory + aircraft practical training
Training Location: 29 Mustang Road, Jandakot WA 6164
Aircraft Used: Cessna 172/182, Piper-PA44, Redbird Flight Simulator
Career Outcome: Commercial Aeroplane Pilot
Pathway: AVI60219 Advanced Diploma of Aviation (Pilot in Command)
What You Will Learn
Pal Education’s commercial aviation programme includes both the theoretical knowledge and the practical flying skills needed for the certification as a commercial pilot. The course consists of approximately 29 units of competency aligned to the Aviation Training Package. Major subject areas include:
- Aircraft radio communications and airspace navigation
- Aviation risk management and fatigue risk management
- Threat and error management strategies in flight operations
- Flight planning under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and Night VFR
- Operating in controlled and uncontrolled airspace including Class G
- Aircraft systems operation and pre- and post-flight management
- Instrument flying, aerodrome operations and cargo/passenger management
- Advanced aeroplane manoeuvres, take-off, landing, and emergency procedures
- Situational awareness, civil air law, and aeronautical knowledge
- Human factors in aviation and management of disruptive behaviour
Through a combination of classroom learning and simulator training on the Redbird Flight Simulator along with practical flights on Cessna 172/182 and Piper-PA44 aircraft, students graduate with the skill set and confidence to execute operation safely and professionally as a commercial pilot.
Entry Requirements
Domestic Students
- Completion of Year 12 or demonstrated relevant industry experience
- Successful completion of Pal Education’s LLN (Language, Literacy and Numeracy) assessment
- Minimum age of 18 years at the time of enrolment
- Valid Class 1 Aviation Medical Certificate as per CASR Part 61.415(1)(a)
- A valid Aviation Reference Number (ARN) issued by CASA
- A valid ASIC (Aviation Security Identification Card) – a police check is needed for entry to a controlled airport
International Students – Academic Requirements
- Completion of Year 12 or equivalent overseas higher secondary qualification (A Levels or equivalent)
- Successful completion of Pal Education’s LLN assessment
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Valid Class 1 Aviation Medical Certificate as per CASR Part 61.415(1)(a)
International Students – English Language Proficiency
International students must justify their English language proficiency through one of the following:
- IELTS (Academic) – Overall band score of 5.5
- TOEFL iBT – Score of 46
- PTE Academic – Score of 42
- Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) – Score of 162
- OET – Pass Grade B
- Level 4 Aviation English Assessment (ELP)
- IELTS 5.0 + minimum 10 weeks ELICOS at a recognised institute
- IELTS 4.5 + minimum 20 weeks ELICOS at a recognised institute
Students with a minimum of 5 years of study in an English-speaking country or who have completed at least 6 months of a Certificate IV (or above) at an Australian RTO, may be eligible for an English Language Proficiency exemption.
Training Facilities and Learning Resources
Pal Education aims to deliver commercial aviation training in a modern and well resourced learning environment. Students have access to:
- Student Assessment Packs and Learner Guides
- Training PowerPoint slides and structured session plans
- Cessna 172, Cessna 182, and Piper-PA44 training aircraft
- Redbird Flight Simulator for instrument and procedural training
- Equipped classrooms with projectors, computers, internet, and audio-visual tools
- Online resource library, periodical aviation publications, and assessment tools
Theory training is delivered at our Malaga campus (70 Malaga Drive, Malaga WA 6090), while practical flight training takes place at our Jandakot training site (29 Mustang Road, Jandakot WA 6164). It is one of Western Australia’s busiest general aviation airports, providing students with an authentic and high-traffic flying environment.
Assessment and Competency
Assessment in the AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation is entirely competency-based. Students must demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to meet each unit’s competency standard. Assessment methods include:
- Written theory examinations and knowledge assessments
- Aircraft practical assessments observed and evaluated by qualified assessors
- Observation-based assessments during simulated and real flight scenarios
- Oral presentations and debriefs
Students who do not yet meet competency requirements will be provided with additional support and opportunities for reassessment in accordance with Pal Education’s assessment policies.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer
Pal Education recognises that many students bring valuable aviation knowledge, skills, and experience gained through prior study or professional work. Our RPL process allows eligible students to have this experience formally acknowledged, avoiding unnecessary repetition of training.
Credit Transfer is also available for students who have completed equivalent units of competency at another registered training organisation. To apply, students must submit a verified Certificate or Statement of Attainment issued by the awarding RTO. All students enrolling in the course are entitled to apply for RPL or Credit Transfer.
Career Outcomes and Pathways
The AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation opens the door to a rewarding and globally mobile career as a commercial aeroplane pilot. Graduates are equipped to pursue roles across a broad range of aviation sectors, including:
- Domestic and regional passenger airline operations
- Charter and corporate aviation services
- Freight and cargo flight operations
- Agricultural and utility aviation
- Flight instruction and pilot training roles (with further qualifications)
- Defence aviation support operations
Upon successful completion of AVI50222, students can also progress to the AVI60219 Advanced Diploma of Aviation (Pilot in Command); the next step toward taking command responsibilities on commercial operations and working toward an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL).
Student Support at Pal Education
Pal Education is committed to the academic success and personal wellbeing of every student. We provide comprehensive support throughout your commercial aviation training, including:
- Academic assistance from qualified trainers and assessors
- LLN (Language, Literacy and Numeracy) support from a dedicated LLN trainer
- Welfare and accommodation guidance for students relocating to Perth
- Referrals to external professional services at no charge to the student
- Administrative support for visa, enrolment, and documentation queries
International students benefit from additional guidance on the ESOS Framework, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and living in Perth, ensuring a smooth transition into study and life in Western Australia.
How to Apply
Applying for the AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation at Pal Education is straightforward. Follow these steps to begin your journey:
- Confirm you meet all academic, medical, and language entry requirements
- Complete the Enrolment Application Form (available on the Pal Education website)
- Submit the completed form via email
- Obtain your Unique Student Identifier (USI) if you do not already have one
- Arrange your Class 1 Aviation Medical Certificate through a CASA-approved aviation medical examiner
- Apply for your Aviation Reference Number (ARN) through CASA
- Ensure your ASIC is in place prior to commencing practical flight training
Ready to begin? Contact Pal Education today:
- Call +61 8 6150 5935
- Email info@paleducation.edu.au
- Visit paleducation.edu.au
Frequently Asked Questions – Commercial Aviation Courses
What is the AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation?
It is a nationally recognised Australian qualification that forms part of the CASA requirements for becoming a certified commercial aeroplane pilot under CASR Part 61 Flight Crew Licensing.
Do I need any flying experience before enrolling?
No prior flying experience is required. You must meet age, academic, medical, and English language entry requirements. Pal Education’s programme is designed for those beginning their professional pilot journey.
What medical certificate do I need for the course?
You need a valid Class 1 Aviation Medical Certificate issued in accordance with Civil Aviation Safety Regulation Part 61.415(1)(a), obtained through a CASA-approved Aviation Medical Examiner.
Can international students enrol in the commercial aviation course?
Yes. International students are welcome at Pal Education. You must meet academic entry requirements, hold a valid Class 1 Aviation Medical, and satisfy English language proficiency standards.
What is an Aviation Reference Number (ARN) and how do I get one?
An ARN is a unique identifier issued by CASA to all persons involved in Australian aviation. You can apply for an ARN directly through the CASA website before or during enrolment.
What aircraft will I fly during training?
Students train on Cessna 172, Cessna 182, and Piper-PA44 aircraft, supplemented by the Redbird Flight Simulator for procedural and instrument training at Jandakot Airport.
How many units does the AVI50222 qualification consist of?
The qualification consists of 29 units in total, 28 core units and 1 elective unit, covering all technical, operational, and regulatory competencies required for commercial pilot certification.
What is the difference between RPL and Credit Transfer?
RPL recognises skills from prior work or study experience. Credit Transfer applies when you have completed an equivalent unit at another RTO and can provide a verified Statement of Attainment.
What can I do after completing the Diploma of Aviation?
You can pursue careers in passenger, charter, cargo, or defence aviation. You may also progress to the AVI60219 Advanced Diploma of Aviation (Pilot in Command) for higher command responsibilities.




