Course Title: Commercial Pilot Licence Theory
Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Commercial Pilot Licence Theory
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
AERO2587 |
Point Cook Campus |
Undergraduate |
110P SEH Portfolio Office |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2018, Sem 1 2019, Sem 2 2019, Sem 1 2020, Sem 2 2020, Sem 1 2021, Sem 2 2021, Sem 1 2022, Sem 2 2022 |
AERO2587 |
Point Cook Campus |
Undergraduate |
176H RMIT Aviation Academy |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2023, Sem 2 2023, Sem 1 2024, Sem 2 2024, Sem 1 2025 |
AERO2597 |
Hartwig Air |
Undergraduate |
110P SEH Portfolio Office |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2018, Sem 1 2019, Sem 2 2019, Sem 1 2020, Sem 2 2020, Sem 1 2021, Sem 2 2021, Sem 1 2022 |
AERO2597 |
Hartwig Air |
Undergraduate |
176H RMIT Aviation Academy |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2023, Sem 2 2023, Sem 1 2024 |
AERO2617 |
RMIT Flight Training - Bendigo |
Undergraduate |
110P SEH Portfolio Office |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2020, Sem 1 2021, Sem 2 2021, Sem 1 2022 |
AERO2617 |
RMIT Flight Training - Bendigo |
Undergraduate |
176H RMIT Aviation Academy |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2023, Sem 2 2023, Sem 1 2024, Sem 2 2024, Sem 1 2025 |
Course Coordinator: Richard Bennett
Course Coordinator Phone: via email
Course Coordinator Email: richard.bennett@rmit.edu.au
Course Coordinator Location: Bendigo
Course Coordinator Availability: via email
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
Recommended Prior Study You should have satisfactorily completed or received credit for the following course/s before you commence this course:
- AERO2576/2627 Introduction to Commercial Pilot Licence (Course ID: 052705).
If you have completed prior studies at RMIT or another institution that developed the skills and knowledge covered in the above course/s you may be eligible to apply for credit transfer.
Alternatively, if you have prior relevant work experience that developed the skills and knowledge covered in the above course/s you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning.
Please follow the link for further information on how to apply for credit for prior study or experience.
Course Description
This course delivers the advanced theoretical knowledge required for the CASA Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), focusing on Navigation, Aircraft Systems, Aerodynamics, and Flight Planning. Building upon the knowledge gained during earlier phases, the course equips students with the skills to plan and manage complex commercial operations.
Students will develop expertise in navigation techniques and performance planning, including fuel management and operational efficiency. The course also covers advanced aircraft systems, ensuring a thorough understanding of powerplants, electrical systems, and other key components critical to commercial flight. Additionally, students will apply aerodynamic principles to optimise aircraft performance and efficiency, while mastering detailed flight planning processes that meet CASA operational requirements.
This course prepares students for the knowledge examinations in these subjects, forming a critical step toward achieving the CASA CPL.
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
This course contributes to the following Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):
PLO1: Demonstrate understanding of a broad, coherent and in-depth body of knowledge relevant to professional pilot practice and the current and future global aviation industry.
PLO2: Adapt knowledge and skills to analyse and synthesise concepts, information and data in diverse aviation contexts using digital tools and professional skills.
PLO3: Formulate ethical and evidence-based responses that integrate critical thinking, problem solving and decision making to address the challenges faced in professional piloting and by the current and future global aviation industry.
Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs):
On completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain and evaluate the operation and performance of advanced aircraft systems, including powerplants, electrical systems, hydraulics, and pressurisation, with an emphasis on their practical application in commercial flight operations.
- Apply detailed aerodynamic concepts, including stability, control, and high-speed flight dynamics, to assess and optimise aircraft performance, efficiency, and safety during commercial operations.
- Integrate performance calculations, weight and balance considerations, and fuel planning to produce accurate and reliable flight plans that meet CASA operational requirements for commercial flights.
- Develop accurate flight plans for complex operations, integrating navigation requirements with performance planning considerations such as fuel management, aircraft limitations, and operational efficiency.
Overview of Learning Activities
Learning in this course will be delivered through a combination of lectorials, in-class practical exercises, and independent study. Lectorials provide a structured learning environment where key theoretical concepts are explained and discussed, offering opportunities to engage with instructors and peers for deeper understanding.
Students will also undertake self-directed study through online exercises, assigned readings, and textbooks to reinforce their knowledge and prepare for assessments. These resources are designed to complement in-class activities and build a strong theoretical foundation.
To meet Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements, attendance at all lectorials is mandatory and will be formally recorded. This ensures students meet training standards and are fully prepared for both the theoretical and practical components of their aviation training.
Overview of Learning Resources
You will be required to utilise online CASA resources, technical documentation, maps, other relevant texts, and classroom handouts. Your learning will be further supported through videos, practical demonstrations, and in-class discussions.
Textbooks: Aviation Theory Centre PPL/CPL Set: Aerodynamics, AGK, Flight Rules & Air Law, Aircraft Operation, Performance & Planning, Meteorology, Navigation, Human Factors
Overview of Assessment
This course has hurdle requirements. All hurdle requirements have been approved by the STEM College Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Learning, Teaching & Quality). A hurdle requirement is necessary to demonstrate to an accrediting body (CASA) that students are competent and being sufficiently assessed against practice-focussed professional standards.
Assessment Task 1 (Hurdle): Ground Theory Class Portfolio & Attendance
Weighting towards final grade (%): 20
This assessment supports CLOs 1-4
Assessment Task 2 (Hurdle): CASA CPL Navigation & Systems Exams
Weighting towards final grade (%): 40
This assessment supports all CLO’s 1,4
Assessment Task 3 (Hurdle): CASA CPL Aerodynamics & Flight Planning Exams
Weighting towards final grade (%): 40
This assessment supports all CLO’s 2,3
Your course assessment is consistent with the RMIT assessment and assessment flexibility policy. https://www.rmit.edu.au/ab