Survey Pilot Courses
A Survey Pilot flies aircraft for land measurement and aerial photography, ensuring safety and liaising with air traffic control.
AI Exposure
High
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Survey Pilot
Get qualified to work as a Survey Pilot with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
AVI50222
Estimated fee
From $90,305
Duration
9 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
The Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) (AVI50222) is the qualification required for commercial airline pilots and military pilots. The course is recognised by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and the Australian Defence Forces (ADF), as well as employers and government organisations in Australia and overseas. Competencies include: planning and navigating flights under visual flight rules, maintaining aircraft radio communications, operating aircraft systems and flight inst...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $90,305
Duration
9 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
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CPP41721
Duration
6 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
The CPP41721 Certificate IV in Surveying and Spatial Information Services (Surveying) equips entry-level technicians to support surveying or spatial information teams in various industries, including town planning, civil construction, mining, and agriculture. The course covers essential skills in spatial information, surveying tools, and geospatial technologies, including total stations and GNSS, with a focus on data management. Graduates may pursue diverse career pathways within the surveying and mapping...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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AVI50322
Estimated fee
From $96,945
Duration
8 months - 12 months
Become a commercial helicopter pilot with the AVI50322 Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Helicopter). This nationally recognised qualification allows you to operate a helicopter in Class G environments and controlled airspaces and is recognised by both the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and the Australian Defence Forces (ADF). The course covers: aircraft radio communications, aviation fatigue, threat and error management, aircraft passengers and cargo, aircraft safety procedures, man...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $96,945
Duration
8 months - 12 months
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AVI50519
Estimated fee
From $23,854
Duration
6 weeks - 24 months
Learn to fly using instruments with the AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating). This nationally recognised diploma incorporates your instrument rating for single and multi-engine aeroplanes and helicopters. The course includes ground school, simulator sessions, and individual flying lessons — and you’ll graduate ready to fly in full instrument meteorological conditions (day and night) according to the grade of your pilot’s licence.
Enquire now for the list of entry requirements and enrolment opportunities.
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $23,854
Duration
6 weeks - 24 months
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Survey Pilot.
Common questions
How much does a Survey Pilot earn?
In Australia, a full time Survey Pilot generally earns $1,500 per week ($78,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for a Survey Pilot?
Employment numbers in this industry have remained stable over the last five years. There are currently 8,000 people employed as a pilot in Australia, and many of them specialise as a Survey Pilot. Survey Pilots may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Survey Pilot?
If you’re planning a career as a Survey Pilot, consider enrolling in a Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence – Aeroplane). This course will give you the skills to plan a flight and operate an aircraft using instruments. You’ll cover topics including managing safe flight operations, managing passengers and cargo and maintaining situational awareness.
Choose a field of study
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More information
A Survey Pilot flies aircraft to undertake surveillance activities. You might be taking measurements of land areas or taking aerial photographs. Survey Pilots may also operate specialist survey equipment such as cameras or you may have a passenger who takes care of those tasks. You’ll liaise with air traffic control services and conduct necessary safety checks on your aircraft.
Survey Pilots should be safety-focused and able to adapt their skills to a range of situations. It’s important that you can communicate clearly and deal with problems as they arise. Survey Pilots should be able to follow correct procedures and remain calm during stressful situations. You may have to work away from home when required.
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