Flyfofa 2026 Bursary: 300‑Hour Pilot Training in Gauteng – Apply 11 Apr
If you’re a South African pilot student who has already earned a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) or Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) but can’t afford the extra flight hours that airlines demand, a new bursary could change that. The Advanced Pilot Training (300-Hour Building) Bursary Programme – run by Flyfofa Aviation Training in partnership with the National Skills Fund (NSF) and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) – is now open to young Gauteng residents under 35.
What this opportunity is all about
In South Africa, one of the biggest roadblocks to a flying career is getting enough flight hours. Employers look for a solid hour bank before hiring. This programme gives you 300 structured flight hours on the ground, completely paid for, so you can move from licence holder to airline‑ready.
The bursary is specifically for Gauteng‑based citizens who already have a PPL or CPL, are 35 or younger, and belong to previously disadvantaged groups. It is open to all races and is aimed at those who truly want a long‑term aviation career.
Who should apply?
Eligibility
- South African citizen
- Age 35 or younger
- Reside in Gauteng Province
- Hold a valid PPL or CPL (SACAA recognised)
- Belong to a previously disadvantaged group (priority for this programme)
If you’ve finished your basic pilot training but can’t afford the extra hours, this bursary is made for you.
What you’ll gain
Getting those 300 hours can:
- Provide structured, supervised flight experience
- Boost your logbook to meet airline and charter company requirements
- Prepare you for commercial aviation environments
- Increase your competitiveness for cadet programmes, instructor roles, and specialist services
Essentially, it turns your licence into a launchpad for a career in aviation.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather your documents:
- Copy of South African ID
- Cover letter explaining why you want to build hours
- Proof of residence in Gauteng (utility bill or similar)
- Copy of your SACAA licence
- Last three pages of your flight logbook
- Choose a submission method:
- Online application: Apply now via the Google Form (use the application code PHB300).
- Email application: Send a PDF of your documents to applications@flyfofa.co.za with the subject line PHB300 Application – Advanced Hour Building Programme.
- Submit before the closing date: 11 April 2026.
Practical tips to improve your chances
Many applicants struggle because their paperwork isn’t neat. From experience, successful candidates:
- Write a clear, focused cover letter that shows your career goals.
- Keep your logbook pages clean and certified where needed.
- Double‑check that your ID and licence copies are readable.
- Submit all materials early; last‑minute uploads often fail.
Also, start thinking about airline cadet programmes once your hour building is done. This bursary is a stepping stone, not the final destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this a fully funded bursary? Yes – the NSF covers the 300 flight hours.
- Can applicants from outside Gauteng apply? No, you must be a current resident of Gauteng.
- Can I apply if I only have a PPL? Absolutely – both PPL and CPL holders are eligible.
- What does “300-hour building” mean? It’s structured flight time added to your logbook to meet industry requirements.
- Do I need to be 35 or under? Yes, the programme is for candidates 35 years old or younger.
- Can previously funded students re‑apply? Each application is assessed individually; priority is given to those who need hour building to become employable.
- Is this programme race‑specific? No – it’s open to previously disadvantaged individuals across all races.
Take the next step
If you meet the criteria and are ready to boost your flight hours, apply before 11 April 2026. Good luck – the sky is waiting!
