Teesside International Airport announces ‘pioneering’ new aviation skills academy

Work has begun to transform part of Teesside International Airport into a ‘pioneering’ new aviation skills academy which will be used to train and teach Teesside University students.

The airport has partnered with the University to develop the Teesside Aviation Skills Academy. Construction work is now under way to convert part of the airport’s terminal building into a dedicated facility for university training and learning.

It will provide a base from which students can learn on-the-job skills across a range of airport functions including air traffic control, management and engineering. The Teesside Aviation Skills Academy will offer aviation students an immersive learning experience that allows them to explore the intricate workings of an airport.

Students will be provided with access to key areas of Teesside International Airport’s operations, from ground handling and air traffic control, to food and beverage and service delivery. This will allow students to put into practice the theory they have been taught in the classroom and enhance their employability skills.

The academy will provide training across six key areas:

• Engineering and Training
• Pilot Training
• Cabin Crew Training
• Drone Training
• Net Zero and Sustainable Aviation
• Management and Executive Education.

Students will be able to study a range of courses including Aviation and Tourism, Airline and Airport Management and Aviation Management and will begin using the facility during the 2023/24 academic year.

The academy is a collaboration between the airport, Teesside University and Tees Valley Combined Authority and builds on the existing relationship between the airport and the University which has seen the airport host field trips and provide guest lectures.

Acting Dean of Teesside University International Business School Dr Andrew Bingham and Head of Department for Aviation, Tourism, Finance and Marketing Beverley Boden joined Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen at the airport to view the ongoing work.

Mayor Houchen commented: “We are delighted to be working with Teesside University to deliver this fantastic facility which will make a huge difference by providing students with the opportunity to learn vital real-world skills at a thriving airport.

“It is essential local people can benefit from well-paid, well-skilled jobs at our airport and this investment will help produce the next generation of employees ready to work across the airline industry. The aviation skills academy will make sure students will stay local and go far and we look forward to welcoming them to our airport.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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