Mount Royal University’s New Aviation Campus Set to Elevate Training

Mount Royal University (MRU) has unveiled its new Springbank Aviation Campus, significantly boosting its capacity to train future pilots. With this expansion, the university will increase its annual pilot training intake from 40 to 80 students, a move aimed at addressing critical workforce needs in the aviation industry. This development was confirmed in a press release from MRU, emphasizing the importance of preparing graduates for careers in aviation.

The campus, located at Springbank Airport, just west of Calgary, officially opened in October 2023, although students have been attending classes since late August. Ian Wallace, Interim Chief Flight Instructor for the Aviation Department, described the formal opening as a “hard launch” for the facility. He highlighted that the new campus offers enhanced experiences for students. “Before it was a good facility, and it worked well for us, but there were limitations,” he said. “Now we have the resources and the tools and the space to look to the future.”

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Resources

The Springbank Aviation Campus boasts a range of modern amenities, including a virtual reality flight simulator, a crosswind flight simulator, and a multi-screen general-purpose flight simulator. Additionally, the facility includes multiple aircraft hangars, a multi-use kitchen, and a staff lounge, all designed to create an optimal learning environment.

Students enrolled in programs such as the Bachelor of Aviation Management and the Aviation Diploma will commute between this new location and MRU’s main Calgary campus for access to additional flight simulation resources and non-aviation classes. This arrangement allows students to benefit from both cutting-edge technology and traditional learning environments.

The development of the campus has received significant financial support, including $7.1 million from the Government of Alberta and $3 million from Prairies Economic Development Canada. With plans to add two new aircraft, a Cessna 172 and a Piper Seneca, the campus aims to enhance its training capabilities even further.

Innovative Training Approaches

Wallace emphasized the importance of a structured training program that combines ground training with flight experiences. “Though some students may have previous flight experience, all will participate in ground training before any physical flying begins,” he explained. This approach ensures that students hit key milestones while alternating between classroom instruction and practical flying sessions.

The curriculum’s design allows for a blend of group classes and one-on-one instruction, facilitating a comprehensive learning experience. As students alternate between theoretical knowledge and hands-on flying, they gain practical skills essential for success in the aviation field.

With the establishment of the Springbank Aviation Campus, MRU is not only expanding its educational offerings but also addressing the pressing demand for well-trained aviation professionals. The university’s commitment to innovation in pilot training positions it as a leader in aviation education, ready to prepare the next generation of industry leaders.