Aerospace and aviation
South Australia has a long history of achievement in the aviation industry.
South Australia is home to Cobham Aviation Services Australia, which provides civilian maritime surveillance for the Coastwatch border protection program through National Air Support - the largest program of its kind in the world.
From this competitive platform South Australia supports a wide range of complementary aviation businesses. These include original equipment manufacturer support for structures, engines and avionics; head-office sales and support for Pilatus Australia; ground handling for the six international, four interstate and six regional airlines serving Adelaide; overnight line maintenance for Qantas, Virgin Blue and Tiger Airways; and major overhaul for Cobham Aviation Services, Regional Express and Alliance Airlines.
Other major aviation companies based in South Australia are Raytheon, Australian Aerospace, Nova Defence and Australian Helicopters.
Training capabilities
South Australia maintains robust and flexible educational and training facilities to meet the needs of a fast-changing aerospace and aviation environment.
Flight Training Adelaide is an internationally renowned pilot-training organisation servicing airlines including Qantas, Emirates, Air China, Cathay Pacific, JAL Express and British Airways.
Graduates of the University of South Australia's civil aviation and advanced aviation programs have found employment with major airlines around the world, while TAFE SA has provided pilot theory and aviation-maintenance engineering training to companies such as Regional Express, Royal Flying Doctor Service and TAE Aviation at Parafield Airport for more than 30 years.
Content updated 29 Mar 2012
