Pilot academy celebrates 500th student taking flight in Waterford

The Atlantic Flight Training Academy (AFTA) has trained its 500th student in Waterford.

AFTA is based in Cork but operates a secondary base at Waterford Regional Airport.

AFTA Base Manager at Waterford Airport and Deputy Chief Flight Instructor Fergal Daly said the regional airport has a lot of potential.

"Airports like Waterford are where aviation careers truly take flight. Waterford Airport has incredible potential - let’s not forget that Ryanair launched its first flight from a small office right here at this airport. 

"The impact Waterford Airport can have extends far beyond the local community, offering immense benefits to the entire South East with future jobs and business opportunities. AFTA is proud to be a part of that growing community."

AFTA made its first flight from Waterford in 2018 and will celebrate 30 years in Ireland in March.

In addition to pilot training, the airport is used for search and rescue operations, national aerial survey flights and business jet flights.

This year, AFTA took in 42 new trainee pilots, its largest group ever.

Commenting on the partnership with Waterford Airport, AFTA CEO and Head of Training, Mark Casey, said: "We are delighted to be carrying out operations at Waterford Regional Airport. It’s a fantastic environment for our students, offering them a chance to train in a real-world aviation setting. With our largest class ever starting this year, it’s an exciting time for the Academy, and we are proud to contribute to the local community and the wider Irish aviation sector."

Airport Manager Aidan Power said they are delighted to be part of the training of the next generation of pilots.

“Congratulations to AFTA on its largest class of 42 students starting their journey in aviation. We wish them every success,” said Mr Power.