UPDATE: Tamworth has just been awarded $5 million in funding from the New South Wales government to enhance its International Flight Training facilities, positioning the region as a leading hub for pilot training. This urgent investment underscores the demand for Australia-trained pilots, with airlines worldwide seeking skilled aviators.
The funding, announced earlier today, is part of the NSW Regional Development Trust initiative and will be complemented by an additional $1.61 million from the Tamworth Regional Council. The improvements will focus on crucial upgrades to lighting and air conditioning systems to meet industry standards.
Mayor Russell Webb expressed gratitude for the investment, stating, “
Funding infrastructure like this supports regional communities like Tamworth to contribute to the growth and success of the aviation industry locally and internationally.
” This upgrade aims to bolster Tamworth’s reputation as “a leading pilot training hub in Australia and across the Asia-Pacific.”
The Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, emphasized the project’s importance, saying, “
This funding is about delivering new jobs and investment for regional communities. By upgrading international training facilities, we’re helping ensure NSW remains at the forefront of global aviation standards.
”
The upgrades, which will commence “straight after Christmas,” focus on the 30-year-old facilities housing both the Singapore Flying College and the Sydney Flying College. Mayor Webb noted that while the funding is significant, additional support will be required from the federal government to fully modernize the site.
Plans include enhancing classroom and flight simulator facilities, along with accommodations for cadets, aiming to increase the number of trainees to 200 cadets per year and attract international students from Singapore and beyond.
Joseph Pilo, CEO of SFC Aero, welcomed the funding, recognizing its potential to facilitate growth. He remarked, “
Without the funding, our growth would probably be limited. The funds will benefit all users of the training space, not just our operations.
”
As the project unfolds, the community eagerly anticipates the positive impact on local employment and the broader aviation sector. The upgrades are seen as a vital step in securing Tamworth’s future as a key player in the global aviation training landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds, highlighting the urgent advancements in Tamworth’s aviation training capabilities.
