Review Summary
- Reputation: Established 2010, owned by Norwegian Air Group, 2,500+ graduates, strong Scandinavian airline connections
- Facilities: Two campuses (Arendal Norway & Västerås Sweden), 45+ modern aircraft, full flight simulators, advanced training technology
- Location: Coastal Norway and central Sweden - high quality of life, safe environment, English-friendly
- Airline Partnerships: Norwegian Air Shuttle, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, Widerøe, direct cadet programs available
- Overall Rating: 4.5/5 - Professional Scandinavian training standards, excellent safety culture, premium quality
OSM Aviation Academy Overview
OSM Aviation Academy is a leading Scandinavian flight training organization established in 2010, owned by the Norwegian Air Group (formerly Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA). The academy operates two modern training campuses in Arendal, Norway and Västerås, Sweden, providing comprehensive EASA-approved pilot training programs. As part of one of Europe's largest airline groups, OSM Aviation Academy offers students unique access to airline career pathways and industry-standard training facilities.
The academy has graduated over 2,500 professional pilots from more than 60 countries, with many graduates flying for Norwegian Air Shuttle, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, and other European carriers. OSM Aviation Academy combines Scandinavian quality standards with modern training methodology, operating a fleet of 45+ aircraft and multiple full flight simulators across both locations. The school's close connection to Norwegian Air Group provides students with valuable industry insights and potential career advantages.
Both campuses maintain full EASA Approved Training Organization (ATO) certification, ensuring the highest safety and training standards. The Scandinavian locations offer exceptional quality of life, safe environments, and English-friendly communities, making OSM Aviation Academy an attractive choice for international students seeking professional training in Northern Europe. The academy's dual-campus structure allows students to choose between Norwegian coastal aviation or Swedish inland flying environments.
Two Training Locations: Norway vs Sweden
Arendal, Norway
Location:
Coastal city in southern Norway, 260km from Oslo. Beautiful fjords, maritime culture, population 45,000. Gullknapp Airport (ENEV) base.
Weather:
Coastal maritime climate. Milder winters but more precipitation. 180-200 flyable days annually. Summer: 15-22°C, Winter: 0-5°C.
Advantages:
Coastal flying environment, varied terrain, challenging weather builds skills, beautiful location, strong maritime aviation culture.
Best For:
Students wanting coastal aviation experience, Norwegian culture immersion, challenging weather conditions for skill development.
Västerås, Sweden
Location:
Central Sweden, 100km west of Stockholm. Modern city on Lake Mälaren, population 150,000. Västerås Airport (ESOW) base with airline traffic.
Weather:
Continental climate with more stable weather. 220-240 flyable days annually. Summer: 18-25°C, Winter: -5 to +2°C, more snow.
Advantages:
Better weather consistency, faster training completion, closer to Stockholm, larger city amenities, controlled airport environment.
Best For:
Students prioritizing faster completion, those wanting larger city life, controlled airspace experience, Swedish culture.
Location Recommendation: Västerås offers better weather for faster completion (2-3 months quicker). Arendal provides more challenging coastal environment valuable for skill development. Both locations deliver identical EASA training quality with same curriculum and standards. Choice depends on weather priority versus coastal flying experience preference.
Training Programs Offered
Integrated ATPL Program
Zero to Airline Pilot
Program Details
Best For: Students seeking comprehensive airline-focused training in premium Scandinavian environment with strong safety culture. Norwegian Air cadet programs available with conditional job offers upon successful completion.
Modular Training Courses
Build Your License Step by Step
Course Options
Multi-Crew Cooperation Course
Airline Preparation
Course Details
Complete Cost Analysis
Integrated ATPL Cost Breakdown
Norway Living Costs (Monthly)
Sweden Living Costs (Monthly)
Additional One-Time Costs
Total Investment: €95,000-€115,000 including 14-20 months living expenses depending on location and lifestyle. Norway slightly more expensive than Sweden (10-15% higher living costs). OSM offers payment plans and financing options. Premium pricing reflects Scandinavian quality standards, excellent safety culture, and strong airline connections. Sweden location typically €5,000-€8,000 cheaper overall due to faster completion.
Facilities and Fleet
Training Centers
- Modern purpose-built facilities at both Arendal and Västerås airports
- 20+ fully equipped classrooms with interactive smart boards
- Computer-based training rooms with 60+ workstations for self-study
- Professional flight planning and briefing rooms with weather systems
- Student lounges, study areas, and cafeteria facilities on site
- Accommodation assistance with verified landlords and shared apartments
Simulator Facilities
- Full Flight Simulator Boeing 737-800 Level D at main training center
- Full Flight Simulator Airbus A320 Level D for type rating courses
- 4+ FNPT II multi-engine simulators with realistic cockpit environment
- 3+ FNPT I single-engine simulators for instrument training
- Upset prevention and recovery training simulator available
- Regular simulator maintenance ensuring highest reliability
Aircraft Fleet (45+ Aircraft Combined)
Single-Engine:
- Diamond DA40 NG (Primary fleet backbone)
- Cessna 172 Skyhawk (Additional trainers)
- Piper PA-28 Cherokee (Alternative aircraft)
Multi-Engine:
- Diamond DA42 NG (Modern twin-engine)
- Piper PA-44 Seminole (Complex training)
- Tecnam P2006T (Efficient twins)
Fleet Details:
- Average age: 4-8 years
- Garmin G1000 glass cockpit
- Comprehensive maintenance
Living in Scandinavia
Scandinavian Student Life
Quality of Life
Exceptional Scandinavian quality of life. Safe, clean, organized society. Excellent healthcare and public services. High standard of living with work-life balance culture
English Proficiency
Among highest English proficiency in Europe. 90%+ population speaks excellent English. All training in English. Easy daily life for international students
Cost of Living
Higher than southern Europe but manageable. Norway slightly more expensive than Sweden. Student discounts available. Quality justifies premium pricing
Winter Experience
Cold dark winters November-February. Temperatures -5 to +5°C. Long summer days compensate. Proper winter clothing essential. Beautiful Nordic winter landscapes
International Community
Diverse student body from 60+ countries. Active social programs and events. Strong support network. Weekend activities and cultural trips organized
Aviation Culture
Strong Scandinavian aviation heritage. Professional safety-focused culture. Modern aviation infrastructure. Excellent air traffic control. Challenging Nordic weather builds skills
Norway and Sweden consistently rank among the world's best countries for quality of life, safety, and education. The Scandinavian lifestyle emphasizes work-life balance, outdoor activities, and social welfare. Both countries offer stunning natural beauty with mountains, forests, and coastal landscapes perfect for weekend exploration. The student experience includes cultural integration programs, winter sports opportunities, and access to vibrant Nordic culture.
While living costs are higher than southern Europe, the value proposition includes superior infrastructure, safety, English-friendly environment, and exceptional quality of life. Many students find part-time work opportunities in English-speaking environments. The challenging Nordic winter conditions provide valuable experience for future airline operations in diverse weather conditions globally.
Key Advantages
Scandinavian Safety Culture
World-leading aviation safety standards. Rigorous training methodology. Strong emphasis on crew resource management and standard operating procedures. Safety-first mentality throughout all operations.
Norwegian Air Connection
Direct ownership by Norwegian Air Group provides unique airline insights. Cadet programs with conditional job offers. Priority consideration for Norwegian Air positions. Strong network throughout Scandinavian aviation industry.
English-Friendly Environment
Exceptional English proficiency throughout Scandinavia. All training conducted in English. Easy daily communication. International students integrate smoothly. No language barriers in daily life or training.
Challenging Weather Training
Nordic weather conditions build exceptional flying skills. Experience with crosswinds, low visibility, winter operations. Valuable preparation for airline operations worldwide. Skills highly valued by employers.
Premium EASA Training
Full EASA ATO certification both locations. Highest European aviation training standards. Licenses valid across all 35 EASA member states. International recognition and career mobility.
Quality of Life
Train in some of world's safest, cleanest countries. Excellent public services and infrastructure. Beautiful natural environment. High quality of life during training period. Memorable cultural experience.
Important Considerations
High Cost of Living
Scandinavia among Europe's most expensive regions. Monthly living costs €1,200-€2,000. Significantly higher than Eastern or Southern Europe. Budget carefully and plan finances accordingly. Quality of life justifies premium but requires larger financial commitment.
Challenging Winter Conditions
Dark cold winters November-February. Limited daylight (6-8 hours). Temperatures regularly below freezing. Can affect mood and motivation. Winter weather causes training delays. Consider if prefer warmer climates or struggle with seasonal affective issues.
Weather-Related Training Delays
Particularly in Arendal Norway location. Coastal weather can be unpredictable. Training completion 2-4 months longer than southern Europe. Factor additional time and living costs. Västerås Sweden offers better weather consistency.
Limited Social Entertainment
Smaller cities compared to major European hubs. Limited nightlife and entertainment options. Can feel isolated especially in winter. Best suited for focused students prioritizing training over social scene. Weekend trips to larger cities recommended.
Comparison with European Schools
| School | Location | ATPL Cost | Living/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| OSM Aviation | Norway/Sweden | €75-90k | €1,200-2,000 |
| CAE Oxford | UK | €115-130k | €1,000-1,500 |
| FTEJerez | Spain | €85-95k | €900-1,400 |
| BAA Training | Lithuania | €65-75k | €600-900 |
| Flying Academy | Czech Rep | €65-70k | €500-800 |
OSM Aviation Academy positioned in premium segment with training costs and living expenses higher than Eastern European alternatives but more affordable than UK premium schools. The Scandinavian quality, safety culture, English-friendly environment, and Norwegian Air connection justify premium. Best value for students prioritizing quality over budget and seeking Scandinavian lifestyle during training.
Student Reviews and Testimonials
"Trained at Västerås campus, finished in 16 months. Professional instructors, modern fleet, excellent facilities. Safety culture outstanding. Got Norwegian Air cadet position during final phase. Winter was tough but manageable. High quality of life in Sweden. Highly recommend for serious students."
– Erik L., Sweden (Graduated 2024)
"Yes, expensive. But quality exceptional. Trained in challenging Norwegian weather which made me confident pilot. Everyone speaks perfect English. Safe beautiful country. Strong airline connections helped career. Now flying for SAS. Investment paid off quickly."
– Maria K., Germany (Graduated 2023)
"Excellent training at Arendal. Weather delays added 3 months to training. Winter dark and cold was challenge mentally. But instructors professional, aircraft modern, safety culture impressive. Coastal flying beautiful in summer. Good airline connections. Choose Västerås for better weather."
– Thomas B., UK (Graduated 2024)
"Chose OSM for quality over price. No regrets. Scandinavian aviation culture fantastic. Weather challenging but builds real skills. Norwegian Air connection valuable for career. Living in Sweden amazing experience. Expensive but quality education and life experience worth it."
– Sofia R., Italy (Graduated 2024)
Overall Student Rating: 4.5/5 based on graduate feedback. Students consistently praise professional training quality, excellent safety culture, modern facilities, and Norwegian Air connections. Weather and high costs mentioned as challenges but generally accepted as worthwhile trade-offs. High satisfaction among graduates who prioritize quality over budget considerations.
Final Verdict: Is OSM Aviation Academy Right for You?
OSM Aviation Academy represents premium European flight training with Scandinavian quality standards and direct airline connections through Norwegian Air Group ownership. The academy offers exceptional training quality, world-class safety culture, and valuable challenging weather experience. The dual-campus structure provides choice between coastal Norwegian flying and more weather-consistent Swedish training environment.
Best suited for: Quality-focused students willing to invest premium pricing for Scandinavian training standards, candidates prioritizing safety culture and professional environment, pilots interested in Norwegian Air or Scandinavian airlines career paths, and students valuing exceptional quality of life during training. Consider carefully if extremely budget-constrained, prefer warm weather, or seeking maximum social entertainment. Overall represents excellent choice for serious students prioritizing quality and airline connections over cost savings.