AIR FORMATION

What AIR FORMATION does

Air Formation is a privately held French aviation training organization founded in 2001 and headquartered in Blagnac near Toulouse. The company is an EASA Part 147-approved training and examination center that delivers regulatory, technical, and continuing-education programs for aircraft maintenance technicians, EASA Part 66 license candidates, MRO and CAMO organizations, Part 21G production organizations, flight and cabin crew, and airport ground operations personnel. Its customer base spans major European MROs (Sabena Technics), business aviation (Jet Aviation), regional and Polynesian carriers (Air Tahiti, Air Archipels, Tahiti Nui Helicopters, Air Tetiaroa), and EN9100-certified aerospace manufacturers.

The company's product portfolio covers EASA Part 66 license preparation across categories B1.1, B1.2, B1.3, and B2; EASA Part 145 maintenance training; Part 21G/J production-organization training; Part CAMO continuing airworthiness training; EMAR military aviation regulation training; Safety/SMS and human-factors training; ATA 104 Levels I–III type qualifications on Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-powered aircraft (Beechcraft, Cessna Caravan, Daher TBM, Kodiak, De Havilland DHC-6, Diamond DA 40/42); flight and cabin crew ESET training; airport security training; trainer development; and an adaptive learning pathway with competency diagnostics. Training is delivered through in-person classroom sessions at company facilities, client-site intra-enterprise programs, a 24/7 LMS-based e-learning platform (shop.airformationelearning.com) with multimedia modules, QCM examinations, and CBT/EBT approaches, and — for the flagship Tahiti program — a 2-year, 2400-hour residential pathway combining theoretical modules and real-environment (ERM) maintenance internships. The company also rents aviation-themed meeting rooms (A380, A340, Cockpit, Cloud 9 1/2, etc.) at its Blagnac facility as an ancillary revenue stream.

Air Formation operates from three locations: Blagnac/Toulouse (headquarters and primary training center), Istres (secondary French center for Part 66 examinations), and Faa'a/Tahiti in French Polynesia (Air Formation PF, opened 2021, hosts the 2400H program), with an additional Senegalese entity (Air Formation Sénégal) serving West Africa. Revenue is generated through per-seat catalog training (€40–€400 per trainee), custom intra-enterprise programs priced per engagement, e-learning access fees with 3-month to 1-year windows, the €33,000-per-trainee 2400H program, and space rental (€110–€450 per day). French learners can finance eligible courses via CPF and OPCO funding. The company is registered as an EURL with €16,500 share capital and operates without disclosed institutional funding, indicating a bootstrapped, founder-led structure under Laurent Vallier.

Name

AIR FORMATION

Legal name

AIR FORMATION

Website

https://air-formation.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

2001

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Air Formation is a French EASA Part 147-approved aviation training organization founded in 2001, delivering regulatory and technical training for maintenance technicians, airlines, MROs, and aerospace manufacturers across France, French Polynesia, and Senegal via in-person, e-learning, and adaptive learning formats.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Aviation Maintenance Training

NAICS

Flight Training (611512), Technical and Trade Schools (6115), Professional and Management Development Training (611430)

akta.pro primary industry

Regulatory, Compliance & Type Training (FAA/EASA/ICAO, Part 147/145) (EDAOAFAN)

akta.pro secondary industries

Aircraft Inspection, Quality Assurance & Airworthiness (IA Prep) (EDAOAFAE), Powerplant Maintenance & Repair (EDAOAFAB), Aviation & Aerospace (EDABALAC)

Keywords

• Aviation maintenance training
• EASA Part 147
• EASA Part 66 license
• Aeronautical e-learning
• Aviation regulatory compliance

Headquarters

HQ city

Blagnac

HQ country

France

HQ region

Europe

Offices4 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B and B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Training Services - Inter-Enterprise (Open Enrollment): Standard catalog training courses delivered in Air Formation's own facilities or via videoconference, available to individual professionals and organizations on a per-person/per-session pricing basis. Revenue recognized per trainee or session.
2. Training Services - Intra-Enterprise (Custom Corporate): Custom training programs developed to client specifications, delivered either at Air Formation's premises or the client's facilities. Pricing determined by a custom evaluation grid per engagement.
3. E-Learning / Distance Learning: Asynchronous training delivered via the Air Formation LMS platform, with trainee access granted upon payment. Online examination, training modules, and adaptive learning programs. Payment is collected upfront at the time of order via card, check, or bank transfer.
4. Event / Space Rental: Meeting rooms and event spaces named after aircraft (A380, A340, Cockpit, etc.) are rented to external clients for conferences, webinars, seminars, and team events. Priced per half-day or full day.
5. EASA PART 66 - 2400H Tahiti Program: An intensive 2-year (2400-hour) training program delivered in Tahiti, combining theoretical module preparation and practical ERM (Environment Réel de Maintenance) internships. Fee is charged at 33,000€ per trainee for the full program.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

AIR FORMATION is a French aviation training organization that delivers EASA Part 147-approved maintenance training and EASA Part 66 license preparation, covering categories B1.1, B1.2, B1.3, and B2. It also offers regulatory compliance courses (PART 145, PART 21G/J, PART CAMO, EMAR), human factors and safety management training, EASA Part 147 type qualifications (notably on PT6A-powered aircraft), flight and cabin crew recurrent training, and trainer development programs. Training is delivered via in-person classroom instruction, an LMS-based e-learning platform with adaptive learning diagnostics (24/7 access), and videoconference, supported by physical centers in France, French Polynesia, and Senegal.

Product overview

AIR FORMATION is an aviation training organization offering a multi-modal educational platform combining in-person classroom training, e-learning, and examination services. The core product portfolio centers on EASA Part 66 license preparation, regulatory compliance courses (PART 145, PART 21G/J, PART CAMO, EMAR), and safety/human factors training, delivered through the proprietary LMS e-learning platform with adaptive learning diagnostics. Supporting offerings include EASA Part 147 type qualifications for PT6A-powered aircraft, airport security training, flight crew training, and trainer development programs. Space rental of aviation-themed venues near Toulouse-Blagnac airport serves as an ancillary revenue stream. The company operates training centers in Blagnac (France), Faa'a (Tahiti, Polynesia), and Senegal.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Air Formation PF: AIR FORMATION Polynésie française — regional training center operating from Faa'a, Tahiti, offering EASA Part 66 licensing and other aviation training courses.
• Air Formation Sénégal

Products and services

• E-Learning Platform Asynchronous online learning platform offering aviation training modules via a proprietary LMS, with adaptive learning diagnostics that identify skill gaps and tailor coursework to individual needs. Sold as a standalone product via shop.airformationelearning.com with payment upfront by card, check, or bank transfer. Target users are individual maintenance technicians and aviation professionals needing flexible, self-paced compliance and license-preparation training.
• In-Person Training (Présentiel) Classroom-based, instructor-led training conducted at Air Formation's facilities in Blagnac/Toulouse (and via videoconference), delivered either as inter-enterprise (catalog) sessions open to individual professionals and organizations, or as intra-enterprise (customized) programs delivered at Air Formation's premises or the client's site. Topics span the full aviation maintenance training portfolio.
• Licence EASA Part 66 European aeronautical maintenance technician certification program covering theoretical modules for B1.1, B1.2, B1.3, and B2 license categories, with exam-only options (EXAMEN) as well as preparation packages (PRÉPARATION with mock exam and trainer correction, RÉVISION with trainer review). Includes the flagship 2-year/2,400-hour foundational program delivered in Tahiti at €33,000 per trainee (max 6 per cohort).
• PART 145 Maintenance Organization Training Regulatory training for EASA PART 145 maintenance organizations, covering auditor qualifications, EWIS, FOD, fuel tank safety, APRS certification, and bilateral agreement frameworks with FAA (USA), TCCA (Canada), and CCAR (China). Targets certified MRO compliance personnel.
• PART 21G / 21J Training Production (21G) and design (21J) organization certification training covering APMS, FOD, EWIS, and SMS requirements for aerospace manufacturers holding EASA PART 21 production organization approvals.
• PART CAMO Continuing Airworthiness Training Continuing airworthiness management training, including aircraft familiarization for various types (Airbus A320, Boeing 737, ATR, Beechcraft, TBM, Kodiak, PC-6, etc.) for organizations responsible for the continuing airworthiness of aircraft.
• EMAR Training (Military Airworthiness) Military aviation maintenance regulation training covering EMAR 21G, EMAR/FR 145, EWIS, FOD, and human factors for military and state aircraft maintenance organizations operating under European Military Airworthiness Requirements.
• EASA Part 147 Type Qualifications (PT6A) Specialized type training conforming to ATA 104 Levels I, II, III for aircraft types including the PWC PT6A engine series, covering system-by-system maintenance, troubleshooting, and practical HSI and borescope inspections. Aircraft types include Beechcraft, Cessna Caravan, Daher TBM, Kodiak, De Havilland DHC-6, and Diamond DA 40/42.
• Safety Training (Human Factors / SMS) Aviation safety training covering human factors (FH/FOH) and Safety Management Systems (SMS) required for EASA PART 145, PART 21, and CAMO personnel, with 9,253+ trainees recorded in 2025 for Safety Training alone.
• Airport Security & Ground Operations Training Airport safety and ground operations courses covering aircraft towing, deicing/anti-icing, runway condition reporting (GRF), marshalling, AFIS English, and aeronautical data provision for ground handlers, airport operators, and AFIS personnel.
• Flight and Cabin Crew Training (ESET) Emergency and safety equipment training for flight and cabin crew including firefighting, survival drills, aeromedical first aid, CRM, and practical exercises, compliant with EASA AIR OPS regulations. Recorded 180 trainees in 2025 with 19.4/20 satisfaction score for ESET.
• Trainer Development (Formateur) Instructor/facilitator training program covering pedagogical methods, Safety Training instruction, competency maintenance, and ready-to-use pedagogical kits (CRM, EWIS, FOD, Fuel Tank Safety, regulations) for trainers delivering aviation training programs.
• Adaptive Learning Program Personalized continuing education pathway with diagnostic assessment that identifies skill gaps and targets training only to unvalidated competencies, optimizing progression and avoiding redundancy.
• Space Rental (Location d'Espaces) Event and meeting room rental service featuring unique aviation-themed spaces including aircraft cabin venues (A340 VIP, A380 conference, Cloud 9 rooftop) and a simulator-equipped COCKPIT room, located near Toulouse-Blagnac airport. Priced per half-day or full day for corporate events, conferences, webinars, seminars, and team events.

Quantifiable outcome

• Average trainee satisfaction rating of 18.21/20 for Safety Training (9,253 trainees in 2025), 18.7/20 for Internal Quality Auditor, 18.8/20 for PART 145 Legislation, 19.4/20 for ESET
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers12 records

Segments6 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature4 records

Partnerships

Twelve partnerships are on record, tiered core, supporting and minor.

• OSAC (Organisme pour la Sécurité de l'Aviation Civile)coreTechnology or IntegrationOSAC is the French national accreditation body operating under EASA authority that grants and oversees PART 147 training organization approvals. Air Formation holds its PART 147 approval through OSAC, which also issues PART 66 licenses under EASA authority.
• EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency)coreTechnology or IntegrationEASA is the supranational regulatory authority that establishes the regulatory framework (PART 66, PART 145, PART 147, PART 21, EMAR) under which Air Formation operates. Air Formation's approvals and training programs are designed to meet EASA regulatory requirements.
• DGAC (Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile, France)coreTechnology or IntegrationDGAC is the French civil aviation authority responsible for civil aviation oversight in France. Air Formation operates under DGAC oversight as part of its national regulatory framework compliance.
• HanvolsupportingStrategic or Co-development PartnerHanvol is an organization dedicated to professional insertion and employment in the aviation industry. Air Formation's partnership with Hanvol signals its commitment to workforce development and graduate placement in the aviation sector.
• France CompétencescoreTechnology or IntegrationFrance Compétences is the national authority that regulates vocational training and professional education in France, overseeing the QUALIOPI certification. Air Formation holds QUALIOPI certification, which is regulated by France Compétences.
• Air ArchipelssupportingStrategic or Co-development PartnerAir Archipels is a regional airline in French Polynesia operating inter-island services. Listed as a partner in Air Formation's Tahiti ecosystem, likely providing ERM (real maintenance environment) internship opportunities for PART 66 trainees.
• Jet AviationsupportingStrategic or Co-development PartnerJet Aviation is a global business aviation MRO and flight support services company. Listed as a partner, potentially providing practical training environments and industry expertise for Air Formation's aviation maintenance programs.
• Air TahitisupportingStrategic or Co-development PartnerAir Tahiti is the flag carrier of French Polynesia operating ATR and Twin Otter aircraft. Partnering with Air Formation to support local aviation maintenance talent development and PART 66 training ecosystem in Tahiti.
• Sabena TechnicssupportingStrategic or Co-development PartnerSabena Technics is a major European MRO provider. Listed as a partner, likely providing practical ERM (Environment Réel de Maintenance) internship placements for Air Formation's PART 66 trainees to complete their practical training requirements.
• Tahiti Nui HelicopterssupportingStrategic or Co-development PartnerTahiti Nui Helicopters is a helicopter operator in French Polynesia. Partner providing aviation maintenance training ecosystem support and practical training opportunities in the Polynesian aviation market.
• Air TetiaroaminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerAir Tetiaroa operates charter flights to Tetiaroa atoll. Partner in Air Formation's Tahiti training ecosystem, contributing to the local aviation training network.
• Tahiti Air Services et ConciergerieminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerGround handling and concierge services company at Tahiti's Faa'a airport. Partner supporting Air Formation's Tahiti training center operations and aviation training network.

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Broad incumbents

• CAE: Global leader in aviation training, originally focused on flight simulation but expanded across maintenance and cabin crew training. CAE serves commercial aviation, business aviation, and defense customers with broader scale and geographic reach than AIR FORMATION.
• FlightSafety International: Major aviation training organization delivering pilot, maintenance, and crew training worldwide. FlightSafety International's maintenance training curriculum overlaps with AIR FORMATION's EASA-focused portfolio at the level of regulatory and safety courses.
• StandardAero: Large independent MRO provider with internal and external training programs for aviation maintenance technicians. StandardAero's training portfolio overlaps with AIR FORMATION's regulatory and type qualification courses, though it operates primarily across North America.

Direct peers

• Sabena Technics: Major French MRO provider that also delivers aviation maintenance training to internal staff and external clients. Sabena Technics is a listed AIR FORMATION partner for ERM internships and operates in the same EASA Part 145/66 training ecosystem across France and internationally.
• Lufthansa Technical Training: EASA Part 147-approved training organization and the largest dedicated aviation maintenance training provider in Europe. Lufthansa Technical Training directly competes in the same regulatory training categories as AIR FORMATION, serving similar MRO and airline clients with substantially broader geographic coverage.

Emerging players

• BAA Training: European aviation training academy with bases in Lithuania, Spain, and Vietnam, offering pilot and maintenance type rating training. BAA Training competes with AIR FORMATION in selected EASA type qualification and crew training categories, with a more internationally distributed footprint.

Regional players

• ENAC (École Nationale de l'Aviation Civile): France's national civil aviation school, delivering aviation training across pilot, engineer, maintenance, and air traffic control disciplines. ENAC competes in the French market for EASA-aligned maintenance training programs and offers degree pathways alongside short courses.
• AeroCampus Aquitaine: Regional French aviation training campus in southwestern France offering aeronautical maintenance, manufacturing, and engineering programs. AeroCampus targets similar EASA-aligned audiences as AIR FORMATION and shares the Toulouse-region aerospace ecosystem.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat3 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/playlist?list=PLesF-DIhNbiSITlHnA6tLel53FDRBkz_5
• Xx.com/air_formation
• Facebookfacebook.com/airformationfr
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/air-formation

Compliance12 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Subsidiaries2 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about AIR FORMATION