Cardiff Airport is helping train the next generation of aviation professionals through a partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan University and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, giving students hands-on experience inside a live airport environment.
Students studying the BA (Hons) Aviation Management degree are immersed in the day-to-day operations of the airport, taking part in structured sessions across multiple departments including operations, safety and security, customer experience and commercial activity. The programme also includes work experience opportunities and real-world consultancy projects designed to prepare students for careers in the aviation industry.
The degree programme, launched in 2022, was developed in collaboration between Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff Airport and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Since launching, students have already secured employment at Cardiff Airport during and after their studies, helping to create a growing pipeline of skilled aviation talent in Wales.
The course combines Cardiff Metropolitan University’s strengths in business and management education with the operational expertise of Cardiff Airport and the international perspective of Embry-Riddle. Topics covered include sustainability, innovation and operational resilience across the aviation sector.
The programme celebrated its first cohort of graduates last year, with another group set to complete their studies this summer. Many students have already gained extensive on-site experience by working alongside professionals across airport departments and contributing to live business challenges.
The practical approach taken by the course has also been recognised by the Royal Aeronautical Society, further strengthening its reputation within the aviation and aerospace sector.
Jon Bridge, CEO of Cardiff Airport, said:
“This partnership is a brilliant example of how industry and academia can work together to develop the skills our sector needs now and in the future. At Cardiff Airport, we are proud to offer students meaningful, firsthand experience across our operations, giving them real insight into how an airport functions. Seeing students’ progress into roles here and across the wider aviation industry is exactly the outcome we want to achieve for Wales and beyond.”
Nicholas Jephson, Programme Director, added:
“Our aim from the outset was to create a degree that is academically robust, industry-informed, and genuinely transformative for students. The close working relationship with Cardiff Airport and Embry-Riddle means our students gain real insight into how the aviation sector operates today, while developing the skills and confidence to shape its future.
“The success of our graduates and the growing industry engagement with the course demonstrate the value of this collaborative approach. I’m incredibly grateful to our friends at Cardiff Airport for all the effort they put in to ensuring our students get the absolute best firsthand experience. I’m grateful for Cardiff Airport’s generosity in giving the students their time, expertise, and resources to enhance the learning that takes place on their degree course.”
Third year student Ethan George also reflected on his experience at Cardiff Airport as part of his placement.
“Being able to immerse myself in the day-to-day operations at Cardiff Airport has given me a much deeper understanding of what goes on behind the scenes. From observing airfield operations to shadowing fire and rescue services and terminal management, I’ve developed a well-rounded view of how an airport functions on a practical level.”
The programme focuses heavily on employability and industry alignment, covering areas such as airport and airline operations, aviation safety and security, and strategic management. Graduates are expected to move into careers across airlines, airports and the wider aviation industry both in the UK and internationally.
