Keyano College is starting up a new aviation program.

The post-secondary school announced on Thursday students can now apply for the two-year course which will include a mix of aviation and business courses.

It will include two specializations.

The first is airline operations which focuses on commerical pilot streams. The second is northern operations which tackles floats as well as landing on smaller airstrips and lakes.

Both streams will include courses around rew resource management, transportation of dangerous goods, pilot decision-making, and wilderness survival first aid.

“This is one of the very few opportunities in Canada where potential students can apply without any prior aviation experience as most programs require a private pilot license,” said Vignesh Rajasekar, Chief Flight Instructor. “We will be accepting students with or without aviation experience.”

This has been in the works since 2018 after Keyano was approached by McMurray Aviation. The two eventually commissioned a Needs Assessment Study in 2019 and found that there is an increased demand for airline pilots and aviation management professionals.

“This program addresses a skills shortage gap, it removes barriers to those wanting to join the aviation industry, it is a great example of an industry and College partnership, and it provides very exciting opportunities for students within our region,” added Fred Russell, Keyano’s Vice President Academic.

People can register by visiting Keyano’s website.