Expert: David A. NewMyer - 6/7/2007

Question
Hi David,
I m Prachi n I m from India. I m 22yrs old.
I m a commerce graduate.I will be appearing CWA (Costs And Works Accountants) Final exam this june.I have given a couple of MBA entrances and awaiting results, incase i m thru i would like to take up finance or marketing as my major subjects.I m curious to work in airline industry as i can see it booming here in India in coming years.

Can you please guide me about some online courses which would suit and add best to my profile as well as give me a head start in aviation industry.
Also please guide me regarding which is the best and globally recognised university or college for the recomended online course.

Also if i want to learn flying planes as a hobby or for private flying purpose how can i fulfill my that desire.

Thanks in anticipation for your fatherly guidance.

Kind Regards,
Prachi

Answer
Hi,

There are relatively few universities in the world that offer an on-line course in an Aviation MBA.  They are:

Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, Florida, USA

I believe that London Metropolitan University might offer something in the UK  and also one university in Paris, France.  

I have personally taught in the program in Canada and it is an excellent hybrid (part in-person, mostly on-line) program with excellent students and faculty to work with...the program gives you excellent networking contacts with the aviation industry.

Remember that the airline industry is a HIRE FROM WITHIN type of industry for management positions.  So, expect to work in entry level work such as in the customer service, ramp service or related work areas in order to learn about how airlines work...you will likely have to do that for three to five years and THEN get into your first management position.

Best wishes to you,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale