School of Engineering Specialist Certifications
High-impact, focused courses designed for working technicians and professionals who need targeted certification without committing to a full diploma
Open Course BrochureSACAA‑Approved Short Courses
Our SACAA‑approved short courses are designed to meet the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) requirements for Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) licensing. Each course is aligned with Civil Aviation Regulations (CARs) and Civil Aviation Technical Standards (CATS), delivered over four days with a balance of theory, case studies, and practical application. On successful completion, candidates receive an attendance certificate from ATASA, enabling them to book and sit the relevant SACAA examination. Courses directly support AME licensing categories including Cat C Gas Turbine, Cat X Avionics, and Civil Aviation Regulations.
Gas Turbine Engine
This four-day short course provides Aircraft Maintenance Engineers with a comprehensive introduction to gas turbine engines, preparing candidates for the Category C AME license examination. The programme covers thermodynamics, engine components, performance parameters, and SACAA maintenance standards for turbine engines.
- Apply inspection and troubleshooting techniques to gas turbine engines
- Demonstrate knowledge of SACAA Category C regulatory and airworthiness requirements
- Integrate safety and human factors awareness into turbine engine maintenance
Aircraft Avionics General (Cat X )
This four-day course introduces Aircraft Maintenance Engineers to the fundamentals of aircraft avionics systems, preparing candidates for the Category X AME license examination. The programme covers electrical theory, digital electronics, communication and navigation systems, and SACAA regulatory requirements for avionics maintenance.
- Apply troubleshooting and defect-reporting procedures to avionics equipment
- Demonstrate knowledge of SACAA regulatory requirements for Category X licensing
- Integrate safety and human factors awareness into avionics maintenance practices
CATS & CARS
A structured four-day programme equipping Aircraft Maintenance Engineers with a working knowledge of the Civil Aviation Regulations (CARs) and Civil Aviation Technical Standards (CATS) as mandated by SACAA. The course covers regulatory frameworks, AME licensing integration, maintenance oversight standards, and compliance monitoring through practical case studies.
- Interpret CARs and CATS in daily maintenance and airworthiness operations
- Understand AME licensing privileges, limitations, and defect-control obligations
- Apply SACAA compliance standards to technical records and safety management
Non‑SACAA Courses
Our non‑SACAA courses are designed to enhance professional skills and technical knowledge but are not directly linked to AME licensing examinations. Focused on broader aviation management, safety, and technical training, these short courses are ideal for engineers, technicians, and managers seeking to expand expertise beyond licensing requirements. Delivered as flexible workshops on quality assurance, safety management, and regulatory awareness, participants receive ATASA certificates of attendance recognized within the industry for professional development.
Human Factors
This four-day short course provides Aircraft Maintenance Engineers with a structured understanding of human performance, error management, and organisational culture in aviation maintenance. The programme covers physiological and psychological factors, Just Culture principles, communication and teamwork, and the integration of Human Factors into Safety Management Systems.
- Apply error management and reporting principles in daily maintenance operations
- Integrate Human Factors into SMS, training, and compliance frameworks
- Contribute to a Just Culture environment that enhances safety and reliability
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Applications are open for the 2027 intake. Secure your place in South Africa's leading aviation engineering academy.
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