Airbus launches new UK helicopter academy to train pilots, engineers and execs

Airbus has launched a new helicopter academy in the UK, providing a hub for rotary wing technical training for pilots, engineering technicians and aerospace leaders.

On July 24, 2026, Airbus Helicopters announced that 400 individuals will pass through the academy on an annual basis. The company added that the academy should address an “urgent industry challenge by providing a resilient, highly skilled pipeline of aviation professionals at a time of critical global demand”.

Airbus described the nearly 12,000 square-meter site as a “one-stop-shop” for advanced engineering type-training, pilot training, and executive leadership management modules.

“We are seeing a shortage of technical rotary wing specialists in the UK, further impacted by the added workload to industry and the lack of mutual recognition between CAA and EASA,” Richard Atack, Managing Director for Airbus Helicopters in the UK, said. “The launch of this training academy is part of a long-term vision to ensure critical services to support the UK’s rotary wing fleet and will help improve the UK’s competitiveness and strengthen the UK’s role as a center of excellence for rotary wing pilot, engineering and early careers training.”

Airbus already supports the UK Ministry of Defense’s Military Flying Training System (MFTS) at RAF Shawbury and RAF Valley, the National Police Air Service (NPAS), as well as nearly two-thirds of the UK’s air ambulance (HEMS) providers.

Airbus HelicoptersOperating under UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and EASA frameworks, the academy holds the distinction of being the only organization in the country to deliver a Part 147-approved Airbus Helicopters B2 type course, drawing civil and military students from both domestic markets and international fleets.

In addition, the training academy is fully aligned with the UK Government’s domestic skills agenda, and offers comprehensive, levy-funded Level 3, 4, 5 and 6 apprenticeship pathways in engineering and support functions.

Airbus Helicopters said: “By bridging the gap between foundational education and highly complex, regulated aerospace careers, the academy provides direct regional socio-economic benefits while establishing long-term STEM pathways.”

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