Review Summary
- Reputation: Established 2007, trained 2,500+ pilots from 80+ countries
- Facilities: Modern training center, 30+ aircraft fleet, Airbus A320 simulators
- Location: Vilnius, Lithuania - safe, affordable, EU member state
- Airline Partnerships: Ryanair, Wizz Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Air Baltic
- Overall Rating: 4.5/5 - Excellent training quality at competitive prices
Baltic Aviation Academy Overview
Baltic Aviation Academy (BAA Training) is one of Europe's leading flight training organizations, established in 2007 in Vilnius, Lithuania. The school operates as an EASA-approved Approved Training Organization (ATO) offering integrated and modular pilot training programs. With over 2,500 graduates from more than 80 countries, BAA Training has established itself as a major player in European aviation education.
The academy operates from modern facilities at Vilnius International Airport, providing students with access to controlled airspace, professional infrastructure, and a fleet of over 30 training aircraft. BAA Training is part of Avia Solutions Group, one of the world's largest aviation services providers, which provides strong industry connections and career pathways for graduates.
Lithuania's EU membership, low cost of living, and English-language training make BAA Training particularly attractive to international students. The school's strategic location in the Baltic region provides excellent access to diverse European airspace for cross-country training while maintaining significantly lower costs than Western European alternatives.
Training Programs Offered
Integrated ATPL Program
Zero to Airline Ready
Program Details
Best For: Students seeking fastest path to airline career with comprehensive training from single provider. Includes pathway programs with Ryanair and other airlines.
Modular Training
Individual Courses
Course Options
Type Rating Courses
Airline Qualification
Available Ratings
Complete Cost Analysis
Integrated ATPL Cost Breakdown
Living Expenses (Monthly)
Additional One-Time Costs
Total Investment: €80,000-€95,000 including 18-24 months living expenses and all training. BAA Training offers payment plans and financing options through partner banks. Significantly lower than Western European schools (€100,000-€150,000).
Facilities and Fleet
Training Center
- Modern 5,000+ sqm facility at Vilnius Airport
- 20+ equipped classrooms with AV technology
- Computer-based training laboratories
- Student lounge and self-study areas
- Flight planning and briefing rooms
- On-site cafeteria and parking
Simulator Fleet
- Full Flight Simulator Airbus A320
- Full Flight Simulator Boeing 737NG
- FNPT II multi-engine simulators
- FNPT I single-engine simulators
- Procedural trainers for systems
- Latest generation visual systems
Aircraft Fleet (30+ Aircraft)
Single-Engine:
- Cessna 172 (Primary training)
- Diamond DA40 (Advanced single)
- Piper PA-28 (Alternatives)
Multi-Engine:
- Diamond DA42 (Modern twins)
- Piper PA-44 Seminole
- Beechcraft Baron (Complex)
Specifications:
- Average fleet age: 5-8 years
- Modern avionics (G1000)
- Full maintenance program
Location: Vilnius, Lithuania
Living in Vilnius
Location
Vilnius International Airport, capital city with 600,000+ population, UNESCO World Heritage Old Town
Safety
Lithuania ranks among Europe's safest countries. Vilnius has low crime rates and excellent public safety record
Cost of Living
40-50% lower than Western Europe. Affordable accommodation, food, transport with good quality of life
Language
High English proficiency among young population. All training conducted in English, city is international
Airspace
Access to controlled and uncontrolled airspace. International flights to Poland, Latvia, Estonia easily arranged
Transportation
Excellent public transport system. Airport easily accessible by bus. Walking and cycling friendly city
Vilnius offers an ideal environment for flight training with excellent infrastructure, affordable living, and vibrant international student community. The city combines historical charm with modern amenities, featuring numerous cafes, restaurants, cultural events, and recreational activities. Lithuania's EU membership provides easy travel throughout Europe during training breaks.
Weather conditions allow year-round training with approximately 280-300 flyable days annually. Continental climate provides diverse training conditions including instrument meteorological conditions for valuable experience. BAA Training assists international students with accommodation arrangements and visa support.
Key Advantages
Cost Effectiveness
Save €30,000-€50,000 compared to UK, Germany, or France while receiving equivalent EASA-approved training. Low living costs amplify savings significantly.
Airline Partnerships
Direct pathways to Ryanair, Wizz Air, and other European carriers. MPL programs and cadet schemes available with guaranteed interviews for qualified graduates.
Modern Facilities
State-of-the-art training center with latest simulators, modern aircraft fleet, and professional infrastructure comparable to top European schools.
International Environment
Students from 80+ countries create diverse learning environment. English-language instruction, international instructors, and global networking opportunities.
EASA Certification
Full EASA approval means licenses valid across 35 European countries. International recognition enables worldwide career opportunities through conversions.
Strong Support Services
Comprehensive student support including accommodation assistance, visa help, career counseling, and 24/7 emergency contact for international students.
Important Considerations
Weather Limitations
Baltic winter weather (December-February) can cause training delays with snow, ice, and limited daylight hours. Plan extra time buffer and expect slower progress during winter months compared to year-round training locations.
Distance from Home
For non-European students, Lithuania may feel remote. Long travel times to home countries and time zone differences can create homesickness challenges during intensive 18-24 month training period.
Competitive Job Market
While airline partnerships exist, job placement not guaranteed. European pilot market is competitive. International students may face work permit challenges in EU countries. Research visa and employment requirements carefully.
Comparison with European Schools
| School | Location | ATPL Cost | Fleet |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAA Training | Lithuania | €65-75k | 30+ aircraft |
| CAE Oxford | UK | €115-130k | 50+ aircraft |
| FTEJerez | Spain | €85-95k | 60+ aircraft |
| Flying Academy | Czech Rep | €65-70k | 40+ aircraft |
| L3Harris | UK | €120-140k | 45+ aircraft |
BAA Training offers competitive pricing similar to Czech Republic schools while providing strong airline connections comparable to UK institutions. The school represents excellent value proposition for students seeking quality EASA training at reasonable cost with career pathway support.
Student Reviews and Testimonials
"Completed integrated ATPL in 20 months. Professional instructors, modern aircraft, and excellent facilities. Got job with Ryanair 3 months after graduation through BAA partnership. Living costs very affordable made training financially manageable."
– Marcus K., Germany (Graduated 2024)
"Training quality comparable to UK schools at half the price. Winter weather caused some delays but instructors very accommodating. International student community great. Career support helped secure interview with Wizz Air."
– Sarah L., UK (Graduated 2024)
"Good instructors and equipment. Some administrative delays with license processing. Vilnius nice city but can feel isolated being far from Western Europe. Overall satisfied with training received and cost savings worth minor inconveniences."
– Ahmed R., UAE (Graduated 2023)
Overall Student Rating: 4.5/5 based on graduate feedback. Students consistently praise training quality, cost effectiveness, and career support while noting winter weather as minor challenge. High graduate satisfaction and strong recommendation rate.
Final Verdict: Is BAA Training Right for You?
Baltic Aviation Academy represents an excellent choice for students seeking quality EASA training at competitive prices with strong airline connections. The school combines modern facilities, professional instruction, and comprehensive support services in a safe, affordable European location. Cost savings of €30,000-€50,000 compared to Western European alternatives make it particularly attractive for budget-conscious students.
Best suited for: International students comfortable with Eastern European location, those prioritizing cost-effectiveness, students interested in Ryanair/Wizz Air career paths, and candidates seeking quality training without premium Western European prices. Consider carefully if you need guaranteed year-round flying weather or prefer training closer to home country.