International Association of Aviation Personnel Schools (IAAPS)

Structure and membership

IAAPS is organised as an association of independent training organisations rather than as a regulator or airline. Membership is typically composed of institutions that deliver pilot licences, type ratings, instructor training and related courses. The association promotes shared standards among members, supports quality assurance, and encourages cooperation on curriculum development and assessment methods. Participation is open to entities that meet the association's membership criteria.

History and development

Since its founding in 1995, IAAPS has evolved alongside changes in commercial aviation training, notably shifts toward competency-based training and the use of advanced flight simulation. Over time the association has broadened its role from a networking body to an active participant in discussions on training standards, safety culture, and modern instructional techniques. Its long-standing presence has helped foster alignments among schools across different countries.

Activities and role with regulators

IAAPS engages in several practical activities intended to raise training quality and harmonise standards. These include workshops, conferences, shared research, model syllabuses and guidance on assessment. A key aspect of its work is regulatory consultation: IAAPS contributes expert input to rulemaking and guidance processes carried out by aviation authorities. It is recognised in consultative arrangements and participates in the rulemaking group of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), where member expertise informs decisions affecting training requirements and certification.

Typical functions and outputs

• Developing recommended syllabuses and training objectives.
• Organising professional development events for instructors and examiners.
• Sharing best practices in simulator use, assessment and human factors training.
• Providing consolidated responses to regulatory consultations.

Importance and distinctions

IAAPS serves as an intermediary between training providers and regulators, amplifying the operational perspective of schools during policy development. While it does not certify individual pilots or enforce regulations, its guidance and collective expertise help shape consistent training standards across jurisdictions. Its recognised role within bodies such as EASA highlights its influence in translating regulatory aims into practicable training arrangements for the aviation community.