Philippine Aviation training academy plans P123-million expansion

Filipino-American joint venture Aeronavigation Academy International Philippines Inc. is expanding its existing aviation training institution in Silay City, Negros Occidental with a project cost of P123 million.

The training institute is certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) of the Department of Transportation and Communications as a pilot school on May 28, 2009 with a validity of up to May 26, 2010. The certification is renewed annually.

The P123 million investments would be used to acquire 17 new airplanes five of which have already arrived to augment its existing two airplanes.

The company will also purchase new aircraft simulator, aircraft fuel trucks, transportation vehicles, and other related equipment.

At the same time, it would also construct additional aviation facilities such as hangars and training/administration complex.

The company’s curriculum follows the existing guidelines by CAAP. Its training courses are being administered by Qualified Flying Instructors (FIs) and Ground Instructors (GIs) to ensure quality standards and safety. In some of these course, students will receive a set of training materials as well as laptops.

The company is 30 percent owned by American firm Aviation Holdings International LL and 70 percent Filipino investors Uldarico Raul Galeste, Jaime Vergara, Rodolfo Vergara, Cesar Poe, and Amado Marking.