First Aviation School in The Kingdom Of Tonga – Palu Aviation

Kingdom Flight Training is the first Aviation School in the Kingdom of Tonga which was launched on Tuesday, 17^th March 2020 at the Hangar in Fua’amotu Domestic Airport, Tongatapu.

The Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. Dr Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa was the Guest of Honor and several other guests including Tonga Youth Parliament members of 2020. This occasion started with a prayer by Rev. Taliai Niumeitolu. The welcoming speech was delivered by the CEO of Real Tonga Airline, Mr. Tevita Palu and the Chairman of the Board, Mr. Va’inga Palu delivered the vote of thanks. The Flight Operating Manager of Real Tonga Airlines, Mr. Maikolo Fa’asolo also delivered words of encouragement and support for the trainees.

Palu Aviation commenced its operation in 2003 by doing aviation maintenance, and in 2013, Real Tonga Airline initiated as the only domestic airline in the Kingdom.

Prior to the launching, the seven young Tongan enthusiasts along with their guardians attended an Orientation program on Monday, 16^th March 2020.These trainees will be trained by Michael Bach who is a New Zealand trainer with a well-rounded background and experience in aviation.

These young and brave trainees will begin with attempting to obtain their Private Pilot License (PPL), then move onto being qualified with Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Single Engine Instrument Rating. They also have met the entry requirements, of:

• Be at least 18 years of age;
• 7^th Form passes in English, Maths and Physics;
• If English is a second language, applicants will need minimum IELTS Band of 6.0 or equivalent;
• Valid passport;
• Declare fit and proper person status by providing evidence of criminal convictions and traffic infringement reports;
• Demonstrate ability to complete the entire course (academic and work experience records)

A Cessna 172 has made available as their training aircraft. The trainees will obtain a New Zealand License after completing the training. New Zealand is under the ICAO – International Civil Aviation Organisation.