Prime Minister tours Massey's aviation school

Prime Minister John Key visited Massey University’s School of Aviation today, and met with staff and students as he toured the Milson Flight Systems Centre.

Mr Key took the controls of flight simulators, inspected the fleet of Diamond DA-40 and DA-42 aircraft and was briefed on the school by Chief Executive Ashok Poduval.

Mr Poduval told the Prime Minister the programme was intensive and unique as it integrated flight training into undergraduate degree courses and offered postgraduate aviation diplomas, master's and doctoral degrees. “Our teaching here is research-led and research-informed and that is a huge point of difference. The professional pilot licence we offer here is a by-product of the degree,” he said.

The school, which is celebrating 25 years of operation this year, teaches a wide range of aviation skills and management in its programme, and students move into careers as pilots, air safety investigators, airport managers, flight dispatchers and airline managers.

Mr Poduval said the international value and potential of the school, for the Manawatü region and New Zealand is extremely significant. “We want to establish a centre of excellence in aviation education, research and training here in Palmerston North which would generate economic benefits for the whole region, and enhance our global presence,"

Mr Key demonstrated a keen interest and considerable knowledge of aviation with his questions during the visit. “It was a great opportunity to understand the course fully and what is on offer for students and the role it plays in terms of New Zealand aviation," he said at the visit's conclusion.

Vice-Chancellor Steve Maharey said the school was a great asset not only for the University, but for the nation and it has built a worldwide reputation.

The school commenced in 1987 with 28 students. There are now more than 300 and about 10 per cent are international students.

Last year the school was chosen by Air New Zealand as a preferred training provider.