1. Do I have to be a Saudi national to enroll?
No
2. What’s in the apartment?
Crockery
Linen
Furniture
Laundry facilities
TV satellite
Internet access
3. Can family members live with me?
No
4. Any pets allowed?
No
5. What type of airplanes will SAFA use for flight training?
We have selected the Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH DA40 NG & DA42 NG.
6. How fast do they fly?
The DA42 NG has a maximum speed of 178 knots (205 mph) and the DA40 NG is 157 knots (181 mph)
7. Are these airplanes safe?
Diamond Aircraft airplanes have an industry-leading safety record
8. Where are the airplanes built?
Our airplanes are built in Wiener Neustadt, Austria, just outside of Vienna.
9. Are they certified to fly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Our fleet will all be certificated and registered in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). We are very proud to have our fleet flying the flag of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
10. Where will the airplanes be inspected and maintained?
SAFA will have its own state of the art maintenance facility where our fleet of airplanes will be maintained in accordance with Diamond Aircraft engineering requirements as well as GACA requirements. SAFA will be a Certificated Repair Station in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
11. How old are the airplanes?
Our fleet is 100% brand new. SAFA pilots will pick the airplanes up at the factory in Austria and fly them to our campus in Thumamah.
12. What type of engines do these airplanes use?
Both our DA40 NG and DA42 NG airplanes have Austro engines, which burn Jet-A kerosene just like the airliners.
13. Why did SAFA choose these airplanes?
We chose the Diamond product line based on safety, performance and the fact that they possess the most modern technology today.
14. Are these the only airplanes that SAFA will use for flight training?
At the present time, SAFA will fly an all Diamond Aircraft fleet. We will also supplement our training aircraft with the most modern and capable training devices (flight simulators) available today.
15. What is a “Flight Training Device”?
Please Click here to find out more.
16. What instruments and radios are in the airplanes?
Our Diamond fleet is equipped with the latest Garmin G1000 series avionics suite and GFC 700 digital autopilot system, which has been custom engineered for the airplane. Please click here to visit the Garmin site for more information.
17. How much does the SAFA professional pilot course cost?
The professional pilot course, which finishes with a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multiengine privileges and an Instrument Airplane Rating, will be available at an introductory price of $75,000 USD. This price will include all fees, materials and uniforms to finish based on a 13-month timeline.
18. Is housing available?
Yes, SAFA has developed a purpose-built residential campus so you can comfortably focus on your flight and ground activities. Our facility includes full dining, recreational, retail shops, and even a bookstore to ensure you are not only rested and ready to perform at your best, but well equipped as well.
19. Do you offer a scholarship program?
Yes, 1 cadet from each class will be eligible to receive a full tuition scholarship; however, housing will still be the cadet’s responsibility. Once an individual has successfully passed the screening, he will have the opportunity to write a 300-word essay describing why he should receive the scholarship. The application for which will be based on financial need, academic work completed while in high school/college, and to date work experiences, if applicable.
20. How long does it take to finish the course and become a professional pilot?
The program will take 13 months to complete (excluding foundations). During this period, you will enter with zero aviation experience and finish with a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multiengine privileges and an Instrument Airplane Rating.
21. Is there a screening process?
Yes, in order to ensure timely completion of SAFA’s flight training programs and ensure you have the right aptitude to become a pilot, you will be required to complete a full screening program. The screening program is described in detail here.
22. How do I apply?
The application process is described here
23. What if I do not pass the screening process?
Once you finish the screening, you will be supplied with your results. In the event, you do not pass the screening process, we will communicate where you were deficient and suggest a methodology for you to manage any issues in preparation for a successful retake. If desired, you can retake the screening program in six months.
24. What is the difference between Part 141 and Part 61?
SAFA will offer both Part 141 and Part 61 pilot training programs. Both sets of regulations lead to a pilot certificate; however, the Part 141 program is more structured. This program is usually undertaken by those who want to pursue piloting as a career. For example, Part 141 requires a defined level of attendance and a minimum pass rate on all tests. While Part 61 is better for those who want to complete their course work in more time and participate in a less-constructive course.
25. What happens if I choose not to finish the training program?
If you decide to not continue by self-selecting out, or in some cases, not meeting the program requirements, then SAFA will refund your unused funds on deposit less a 10% administration fee, which is utilised towards the current and future course(s) in which you are enrolled.
26. Is there refund policy?
Please see #25 above
27. Once I am selected, what’s next?
The complete selection and administration process is described here
28. What are the entry requirements?
Click here to find out
29. What type of aircraft will I be able to fly after graduation?
Upon successful completion of the training program, you will be eligible to be hired by an airline and trained to fly any one of the aircraft in the airline’s fleet.
30. How many hours will I have at graduation?The average graduate will have accumulated approximately 225 flight training hours. This time will vary depending on the flight courses selected as well as individual skill levels.
31. Am I guaranteed a job after I graduate?
While SAFA will prepare you for a career as a professional pilot, we cannot guarantee you successful completion of the training program or a job after graduation. SAFA will provide each graduating Cadet assistance in securing an airline interview and preparation for that interview.
32. Is simulator training time accepted by the airlines?
Yes. Just like the airlines, GACA regulations allow flight schools to conduct a specific amount training hours in a Flight Training Device.
33. What countries will recognize my General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) issued pilot certificates?
As long as the country is an ICAO member state, all training which occurs under GACA will be accepted as credit towards licensure by each country’s Aviation Authority. The transference of licensure process is defined by each individual member state.
34. I don’t want to be an airline pilot; can I just get a Private Pilot Certificate?
Yes, SAFA has several training options for customers serious about flying, but not ready to pursue a career in aviation.
35. How can I be assured of my Safety (or safety of my ward) while he is learning to fly at SAFA?
We at SAFA work on the principle of “Safety First” in all our daily operations. The organization has a customized “Safety Management System” . Our internal auditing processes ensure that our staff follow the procedures and practices required to maximize safety.
36. How can I be assured of my Safety while I am learning to fly at SAFA?
We at SAFA work on the principle of “Safety First” in all our daily operations. The organization has a customized “Safety Management System” that has been designed to manage risks. Our internal auditing processes ensure that our staff follow the procedures and practices required to maximize safety.”