BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management (Airline and Airport Specialist)

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management (Airline and Airport Specialist) course prepares students for leadership roles in the aviation industry, covering all aspects of aviation. Students engage in practical learning through flight simulation, industry visits, and case studies. The program's proximity to Heathrow Airport and industry connections offer exceptional opportunities for internships and career advancement in airlines, airports, and related organizations. Graduates are equipped for postgraduate studies or management positions in the aviation sector.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management (Airline and Airport Specialist) course equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue leadership management roles in the aviation industry. The program covers various aspects of aviation, including:

• The theory of flight
• How airlines transport passengers and goods globally
• How airports handle millions of passengers
• How the air traffic control system functions
• Ensuring safety and security on every flight
• Managing people and resources
The course includes practical learning experiences through placements, guest lectures, field visits, and case studies.

Outline:

The course is structured over three years (four years with placement) and is delivered by a team of experts in the aviation industry. The program utilizes the university's Boeing 737 flight simulator facility for practical learning.

Level 4 (First Year):

• Compulsory Modules:
• The Aviation Professional:
Focuses on key areas for employability in the aviation industry, including effective academic competences.
• Introduction to Air Transport Management: Covers the history, development, and technological advancements in commercial aviation.
• Air Passenger Experience: Examines the air passenger travel experience, including self-service options, border control management, and common use systems.
• Air Transport Finance and Business Strategy: Explores the financial and economic concepts of profitability in the aviation industry.
• Specialised Air Transport Services: Provides a basic understanding of segments of aviation outside the mainstream passenger aviation industry.

Level 5 (Second Year):

• Compulsory Modules:
• Air Transport Systems and Operations:
Covers systems, operational concepts, planning processes, infrastructure, and regulations involved in moving people and goods by air.
• Air Accident Investigation and Safety: Explores accident and incident investigation procedures and regulations through case studies and group work.
• Aviation Technology and Innovation: Examines historical and contemporary technologies used in airlines, airports, and aircraft manufacturers.
• Talent Management and Leadership: Develops understanding of talent management and entrepreneurial leadership in aviation organizations.
• Digital Marketing and Revenue Management: Covers the use of digital marketing and revenue management in commercial aviation and airports.
• Applied Research Methods: Provides knowledge and understanding of research methodology, approaches, and designs.

Level 6 (Final Year):

• Compulsory Modules:
• Airline Route Development and Operations:
Covers the commercial and operational aspects of route development and operations.
• Sustainable Aviation and the Environment: Explores the principles of sustainability and sustainable aviation management for airlines, airports, and aircraft manufacturers.
• Airport Planning, Design and Management: Examines the design and operation of airport airside, airspace, and terminal building areas.
• Aviation Strategy and Commercial Analysis: Covers strategic and commercial aspects of air transport management, including strategic analysis and trends in the industry.

Teaching:

The program is taught by experienced academics with extensive travel industry experience. The course features practical learning experiences through:

• Boeing 737 flight simulator facility: Provides a realistic learning environment.
• Industry visits: Expose students to real-world aviation operations.
• Guest lectures: Provide insights from industry professionals.
• Case studies: Allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.

Careers:

Upon completion of the program, graduates can pursue management careers in a range of aviation-related organizations, including:

• Airlines
• Airports
• Aviation agencies
• In-flight catering companies
• International cargo organizations
Graduates may also work in the transport, travel, and logistics industries. The course prepares students for further postgraduate study, such as Masters or PhD programs in aviation and management.

Other:

• The course capitalizes on its location in West London, near Heathrow Airport, one of the world's busiest international airports.
• The University of West London has strong links with Heathrow Airport Limited and numerous airlines and aviation companies.
• Placement: The placement option (available for UK students only) provides the opportunity to gain experience in the aviation industry after the second year of study.