Cabin Crew Training Schools South Africa: The Complete Guide

Key Takeaways: The “License” First Rule

• The Golden Rule: In South Africa, you generally cannot apply to an airline (like FlySafair or Airlink) without a license. You must pay for your own training at a private academy first to get your SACAA Cabin Crew License.
• The Accreditation Trap: You MUST train at an ATO (Aviation Training Organisation) accredited by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). If the school is not on the SACAA list, your certificate is useless.
• The “Class 4” Medical: Before you pay a cent for training, you must pass a Class 4 Medical exam by an aviation doctor. If you are colour blind or have certain chronic conditions, you will not be allowed to fly.
• The Cost: Expect to pay between R15,000 and R25,000 for the 6–8 week training course. This usually excludes the medical exam and licensing fees.
• Swimming: You must be able to swim. If you cannot tread water with a life jacket on, you will fail the licensing exam.

For many young South Africans, the “Jet Life” is the ultimate dream. But unlike in the USA or UAE where airlines hire you and then train you, South African airlines prefer candidates who are already licensed.

This shifts the risk (and the cost) to you.

Choosing the right school is critical. There are many “fly-by-night” colleges that promise guaranteed jobs but offer unaccredited courses.

Here is the definitive guide to the legitimate, accredited training schools and the process to earn your wings.

1. The Requirements: Can You Apply?

Before you look at schools, check if you meet the legal minimums.

• Age: Minimum 18 years old (at the time of licensing).
• Education: Grade 12 (Matric) is the industry standard.
• Height: Most airlines require you to be 1.56m or taller. This is safety-related (you must be able to reach the overhead lockers and safety equipment).
• Health: You must pass a Class 4 Medical.
• Language: Proficiency in English is non-negotiable (it is the international language of aviation).
• Swimming: You must be able to swim unassisted.

2. Top SACAA-Accredited Training Schools

These are the established academies that have a track record of producing licensed crew.

1. Skyy Aviation Academy

One of the most visible brands in aviation training.

• Location: Durban (KZN) and Cape Town (Western Cape).
• The Vibe: Very student-focused with a strong marketing presence. They also offer “Ground Handling” and “Passenger Service Agent” courses.
• Duration: Approx. 6–8 weeks.
• Why choose them? They have strong industry links and often host airline recruitment days.

2. Cranfield Aviation Training

Located in Johannesburg, Cranfield is a serious, technical aviation school.

• Location: Fourways, Johannesburg.
• The Vibe: Professional and no-nonsense. They train pilots and maintenance crew too, so you are in a “real” aviation environment.
• Focus: They are known for high standards in Safety and Emergency Procedures (SEPT).

3. EPT Aviation Training

EPT is a heavyweight in the industry. They often handle the recurrency training for working crew, which means they know exactly what airlines want.

• Location: Kempton Park (near OR Tambo Airport).
• The Benefit: Being close to the airport means you are surrounded by the industry. Their “Mock-up” cabin simulators are excellent.

4. Future Flyers

• Location: Kempton Park (JHB) and Cape Town.
• Reputation: A dedicated cabin crew academy. They focus purely on getting you your license.

5. Flite Training Academy

• Location: Wonderboom Airport, Pretoria.
• The Vibe: Smaller classes, personal attention. Being at an airport gives you exposure to aircraft daily.

3. The Curriculum: What Do You Actually Learn?

It is not just about serving chicken or beef. The course is 90% safety.

Module 1: Safety & Emergency Procedures (SEPT)

• How to evacuate a burning aircraft.
• How to use oxygen masks and life jackets.
• How to open the emergency exits (they are heavy!).
• Drills for “Ditching” (landing on water).

Module 2: Aviation Medicine (AvMed)

• CPR and First Aid.
• How to handle heart attacks, strokes, and chokings at 30,000 feet.
• Childbirth (yes, you learn how to deliver a baby).

Module 3: Dangerous Goods

• Identifying restricted items (like lithium batteries or chemicals) that passengers try to sneak on board.

Module 4: Security

• Hijack management.
• Handling unruly or aggressive passengers.

4. The Licensing Process (Step-by-Step)

You don’t just “graduate.” You have to be tested by the government.

Step 1: The Medical

• Go to a Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (DAME). These are specific doctors approved by the CAA.
• Cost: Approx R1,500 – R2,500.
• They test your heart, ears, eyes, and lungs.

Step 2: The Training

• Complete your 6-week theory and practical course at the school.

Step 3: The SACAA Exam

• You must write the official SACAA exam at a designated testing centre.
• Pass Mark: 75%.

Step 4: The Skills Test

• A SACAA Designated Examiner will watch you perform practical drills (e.g., putting out a fire, swimming in a life jacket).

Step 5: The Card

• Once passed, you receive your Cabin Crew Member (CCM) License. Now you can apply for jobs.

5. The Cost Breakdown (Estimates)

Budgeting is crucial. The course fee is rarely the total fee.

Item	Estimated Cost	Notes
Course Fee	R18,000 – R25,000	Paid to the school.
Class 4 Medical	R1,500 – R2,500	Paid to the Doctor.
SACAA Exam Fee	R300 – R500	Paid to CAA.
License Issue Fee	R400 – R600	Paid to CAA.
Travel/Accommodation	Variable	If you live far from the academy.

6. Real Talk: Will You Get a Job?

Having a license does not guarantee a job.

• The Market: There are more licensed graduates than there are open positions. It is competitive.
• The “Grooming” Factor: Airlines are image-conscious. Your grooming, posture, and language skills during the interview matter as much as your license.
• The “Designated” Airlines: Some airlines (like SAA or international carriers like Emirates) do recruit untrained staff and train them internally. However, for local low-cost carriers (LCCs), holding a license is a massive advantage.

Summary: Is It Worth It?

If you are passionate about aviation and safety, yes. It is a disciplined, respected career.

Action Plan:

1. Book the Medical First: Do not pay a school deposit until you know you are medically fit. If you fail the medical, you can never fly.
2. Verify the School: Ask the school for their ATO Number (Aviation Training Organisation number). Call the SACAA to verify it is active.
3. Start Swimming: If you can’t swim, join a gym with a pool today. You cannot pass the course without this skill.

Next Step:

Once you have your license, you need to understand the difference between the airlines. Working for a “low-cost carrier” vs. a “legacy carrier” is very different.

Read Article: Top 10 High-Income Skills in South Africa (Soft Skills Section)

Disclaimer: Course fees and regulation codes change. Always verify the latest ATO status on the official South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) website.