First NZICPA aircraft cleared to fly as discussions continue

Published on 15 July 2025

The New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy (NZICPA) has achieved several key milestones in recent days.

NZICPA director, Craig Compain, says the academy has now received official Certificates of Airworthiness from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for four of its aircraft, with no conditions attached. 

“This means they’ve been fully cleared as safe to fly,” he says. “The CAA has given the academy approval to conduct currency flights which are an important part of ensuring instructors meet legal requirements for recent flight experience.

“These have been completed and instructor renewal and standardisation flights started today. This is a major step forward in our return-to-training journey.”

NZICPA’s flying operations had been temporarily suspended since 23 May, following a directive issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). 

Compain says the school is taking a phased approach to lifting the suspension of the academy’s Part 141 certification, which is required for organisations conducting aviation training and assessments.

In accordance with approval given by NZQA on 19 June, the academy is continuing to provide academic ground training in the meantime.

“At the same time, we’re ensuring the academy is well managed and costs remain within our existing funding.”

Whanganui Council Holdings Limited chair, Carolyn van Leuven, says discussions about a potential sale are ongoing.    

“We are undertaking due diligence and making a thorough assessment before we narrow down options and bring recommendations back to Whanganui District Council for decision.”

“As always, our priorities are to ensure a return to safe, high quality flight training in Whanganui – and to get the best outcome for Whanganui ratepayers from a difficult situation.”