Nigerian Pilot Program: Comprehensive Training Program

Are you from Nigeria and interested in becoming an airline pilot?

We have designed Epic Flight Academy’s Nigerian Pilot Program to train pilots under the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority with structured flight training. We take you from zero experience to a successful career as an airline pilot. The program supports students who speak English as a second language. The aviation industry requires the ability to read, write, and speak English proficiently for most employees and all pilots. Therefore, our flight school students have access to English tutoring to develop Aviation English skills during Ground School training.

How many Nigerian students has Epic trained?

Epic has trained thousands of international students from 80+ countries for jobs in aviation. This includes many from Nigeria. We provide a complete pilot program for Nigerian students to reach their dream airline job. For example, Epic graduate Akibu Sarina flies for Azman Air. Most importantly, the demand for airline pilots is at an all-time high. Therefore, aspiring aviators are seeking the most cost-effective and time-efficient program to receive flight training and begin their airline pilot careers.

What are the requirements to begin the Nigerian Pilot Program?

• First, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Also, you must have a high school diploma or equivalency.
• Next, students must be able to obtain an FAA medical certificate.
• Most importantly, you must be proficient in English.
• Additionally, you must hold a valid passport with at least 6 months before expiration.
• Furthermore, will need to apply for and receive an M1 visa.
• Finally, you must be available to be a full-time student 5 days per week.

Check Flight School Eligibility!

What is the cost of the program?

Can I transfer to your flight school?

If you have already logged flight training hours, we can accept you as a transfer student regardless of how much training you have had.

What are the pilot hiring requirements for airlines in Nigeria?

Depending on the airline, they may require additional hours of time building. Generally, Nigerian airlines require a total minimum of 250 hours. Therefore, our students typically need an additional *110 hours time building if they finish their commercial training within the estimated 140 hours.

*Pilot-In-Command Time Building: 110 Hours

View Pilot Hiring Requirements for these Nigerian Airlines:

Below are links for hiring requirements for top airlines in Nigerian. Note: These requirements are subject to change at the discretion of the airline. Therefore, refer to the airline directly for the latest information. 

• Air Peace
• Allied Air
• Arik Air
• Dana Air
• Dornier Aviation Nigeria
• Max Air
• Overland Airways

What is the Nigerian CAA Pilot Conversion process?

Once Nigerian students complete their FAA pilot training at Epic, they will need to officially convert their licenses to meet the requirements of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. 

At Epic Flight Academy:

• Minimum 150 flight hours
• 70 hours PIC
• 20 hours cross country, of which 1 must be 300nm or greater with two landing
• 10 hours Dual instrument training
• 5 hours night with 5 take off and landing

Once back in Nigeria, contact the CAA to finalize the conversion.

How much do pilots earn in Nigeria?

The career of pilot is one of the most coveted in Nigeria in large part because it is a job that pays well. Therefore, if you are thinking about training to become a professional pilot in Nigeria, you should also research the different airlines there to determine the salary and benefits that are right for you. For example, the starting pay for entry level pilots is approximately N200,000 (Nigerian Naira) annually, although many airlines pay in U.S. dollars (USD). More experienced commercial pilots earn approximately N500,000 in wages depending on the airline. Once you have type ratings and more hours logged, you can earn more as a first officer, which ranges from N300,000 to N800,000. Certainly, captains earn at the top, ranging from N500,000 to N1.5 million, again depending on the airline. A pilot’s pay varies based on several factors, which we describe in our article about airline pilot salary.

Relocation & Transportation Assistance

We understand that selecting and applying to a flight school, and arranging travel and housing, if necessary, can be very stressful. However, our pilot training facility assists you in arranging each detail, As a result, your transition here is simple and easy. Visit our Student Life section for more information on our student amenities, transportation, events, and activities.

What else should I know about Epic’s Nigerian Pilot Program?

Transferable FAA Pilot Programs

Epic’s flight training courses are the leading United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved Professional Pilot courses. All Civil Aviation Authorities (CAA), including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. They recognize FAA-issued certificates. FAA approved flight courses are the key to pilot career opportunities. This is because they require English proficiency and successful completion of an ICAO Level 4 English language endorsement. Most importantly, airlines that fly routes between countries with different native languages require you to speak English.

Virtual Online Flight Academy

Epic Flight Academy provides important resources for its international flight students. For instance, our Online Virtual Flight Academy lets you connect with your FAA Flight Instructor and classmates before you arrive here in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Likewise, the online, interactive pilot training course helps you develop aviation skills and build a knowledge base of aviation terms and resources. Above all, you have an advantage when you begin attending Epic’s Ground School. For example, we share training videos on Cessna 172s, aircraft systems, aircraft performance, FAA regulations, and the New Smyrna Beach Airport. Nigerian Pilot Program students can start their training from home. Also, you can try our free Demo Online Course.

Aviation Skill Development (ASD) and Private Pilot Ground School

Epic is the only flight school to offer this unique ASD course. For example, during this phase of flight training, ground school students will build on the information they gained from the Virtual Flight Academy. Additionally, they start flight simulator training. In other words, the purpose of ASD is to familiarize students with the Cessna 172 and the New Smyrna Beach Airport. Most importantly, ASD increases students’ safety and awareness.

What if I have other questions?

You can view the most Frequently Asked Questions for international students. Also, you can also post questions and comments in our Pilot Forum. Most importantly, we are here to help and look forward to answering your questions. You are welcome to contact us anytime!