Definition and Framework
Istanbul Aydın University offers pilot training programs with the status of an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) authorized by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (SHGM). These programs are compliant with both national and international civil aviation standards and have training curricula designed according to ICAO/SHGM regulations.
Purpose and Content of ATO Trainings
The ATO trainings conducted within the university are designed to provide students and pilot candidates with the following outcomes:
- Theoretical knowledge training: Gaining expertise in aviation theory and fundamental knowledge areas
- Operational skill development: Flight operations, communication, and navigation knowledge
- Preparation and certification for SHGM exams: Being prepared for exams approved by SHGM and obtaining a license
- Learning outcomes compliant with international standards: Training modules compliant with ICAO standards
These trainings are modular in structure, intended both for preparation for a pilot license and to increase the depth of knowledge of pilots.
ATO Training Modules (Theoretical Courses and Subjects)
The trainings offered within the scope of ATO comply with SHGM's ATP(A) Modular Theoretical Knowledge Training curriculum. The basic course modules provided in this context are as follows:
✔ Air Law
It covers aviation law, ICAO regulations, national legislation, airspace structure, ATC procedures, and legal responsibilities related to flight.
✔ Aircraft General Knowledge
It covers the aircraft's airframe, systems, powerplant, electrical and fuel systems, pressurization, hydraulic systems, emergency equipment, and basic aircraft system architecture. The Instrumentation sub-module is evaluated under this heading.
✔ Principles of Flight
It includes aerodynamic principles, lift, drag, stability, control surfaces, and flight characteristics.
✔ Mass and Balance
Load distribution of the aircraft, mass and balance calculations, load planning, and calculation methods required for safe flight performance are covered.
✔ Performance
Take-off, climb, cruise, and landing performance; runway length calculations; engine performance, and operational limits are discussed.
✔ Flight Planning and Flight Monitoring
It covers pre-flight planning, route analysis, fuel calculations, meteorological data evaluation, NOTAM analysis, and operational monitoring processes during the flight.
✔ Human Performance and Limitations
Aviation physiology, human factors, fatigue, stress, decision-making processes, and CRM (Crew Resource Management) applications are discussed.
✔ Meteorology
It includes the structure of the atmosphere, pressure systems, wind, cloud formation, icing, turbulence, and interpretation of meteorological reports.
✔ General Navigation
Map reading, magnetic variation, time-speed-distance calculations, direction finding techniques, and navigation planning are covered.
✔ Radio Navigation
The operating principles and operational use of radio navigation aids such as VOR, DME, NDB, ILS, and GNSS systems are discussed.
✔ Operational Procedures
It focuses on flight operations, safety procedures, emergency applications, threat and error management, and operating procedures.
✔ Communications (VFR/IFR)
Air-ground communication within the scope of visual and instrument flight rules, standard phraseology, and effective communication techniques with ATC are taught.
Educational Processes and Teaching Format
ATO trainings include both theoretical courses and applied flight training. Theoretical knowledge training is provided by integrating it with the university's piloting curriculum and ensures preparation for the exams determined by SHGM. The theoretical content is supported by virtual classroom applications, lectures, simulation-supported trainings, and applied case studies.
- Course contents are presented modularly,
- Tests and practice exams compliant with SHGM measurement and evaluation criteria are applied,
- Simulator and performance analysis trainings are conducted integrated with the program.
The Importance of Trainings in Terms of Accreditation
ATO trainings are directly related to accreditation criteria because:
- Training processes compliant with international aviation standards are defined.
- Theoretical knowledge modules approved by SHGM are applied.
- Measurement and evaluation, exam preparation, and learning outcomes in pilot training processes are systematically monitored.
- Reproducible data and document outputs (exam results, course attendance reports, etc.) are integrated into quality assurance processes.
The ATO certified trainings conducted by Istanbul Aydın University have a comprehensive educational structure that enables pilot candidates to acquire internationally valid knowledge and skills, and is fully compliant with the SHGM ATP(A) curriculum. Theoretical modules and applied flight trainings are presented with a holistic approach, and the program relies on a strong academic and operational infrastructure that meets accreditation and quality assurance standards.
