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Farnborough Airport, the birthplace of British aviation and Europe’s leading airport for premium air travel connectivity, together with Farnborough College of Technology (FCoT), has today announced that applications are open for the latest intake of its popular Certificate in Airport Operations course.
Now entering its third delivery since launching in 2025, the programme continues to provide adult learners with a unique opportunity to gain valuable insight into careers within the aviation industry through a combination of classroom learning and direct engagement with aviation professionals. Since its launch, the training course has already helped a number of participants secure employment opportunities within the aviation sector, highlighting it as a valuable pathway into the industry.
Developed in partnership with Farnborough College of Technology and drawing on Farnborough Airport's pioneering aviation heritage and industry expertise, the programme is tailored to support the growing demand for skilled talent across aviation and airport operations, equipping participants with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to pursue a range of career opportunities across the sector.
The six-week course, designed especially for learners aged 21 and over, will begin on Tuesday 3rd November 2026 and conclude on Tuesday 15th December 2026, with classes held at Farnborough College of Technology on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6.00pm to 9.00pm.
Throughout the course, participants will learn directly from subject matter experts working across Farnborough Airport, alongside specialist lecturers from the College. The programme covers a broad range of subjects that underpin airport operations, including:
In addition, students will benefit from up to two immersive “Airport Insight” days at Farnborough Airport, where they will shadow professionals and gain practical, hands-on learning within their chosen specialism.
Places on the course are free of charge but limited due to continued demand and popularity.
Applicants who successfully progress through the selection process will be invited to interview at Farnborough College of Technology. Ahead of the course commencing, participants will also attend a preparatory visit to Farnborough Airport, providing an opportunity to meet Airport managers, fellow learners and gain an early insight into the course.
Marine Eugene, CEO at Farnborough Airport, commented: "We are delighted to be opening applications for the third Certificate in Airport Operations programme. Since launching in 2025, the course has provided local people with a valuable introduction to the aviation industry, helping participants build new skills, broaden their understanding of airport operations and take meaningful steps towards future careers.
As an Employer of Choice and Responsibility, we are committed to investing in local talent and creating opportunities for people to explore the wide range of careers available within aviation. Through our partnership with Farnborough College of Technology, we are proud to continue supporting skills development across the region and helping to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals."
Virginia Barrett OBE, Principal CEO at Farnborough College of Technology, said: “We are proud to continue our successful partnership with Farnborough Airport and to be launching the third delivery of this popular programme. The success of previous cohorts demonstrates the real value of employer-led training, with learners developing industry-relevant skills, building professional networks and, in some cases, progressing directly into employment within aviation.
Aviation remains an important sector for our region, offering a wide range of exciting and rewarding career opportunities. Through this course, we are helping local people gain a greater understanding of the industry while developing the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to take the next step in their career journey. We look forward to welcoming another cohort of aspiring aviation professionals this autumn.”
Applications for the Farnborough Airport Certificate in Airport Operations are now open. Prospective students can find out more and apply via the College’s website: www.farn-ct.ac.uk
