Finnish flight academy head: drone encounters not yet part of standard pilot training

Drones have not been integrated into the basic training of professional pilots in Finland, according to Ari Tolonen, principal of the Finnish Aviation College, but GPS interference in eastern Finland poses a more immediate concern.

Speaking to public broadcaster Yle, Tolonen confirmed that current pilot training does not include specific instruction on drone encounters. “There is no related training in the basic curriculum. We need to consider whether to incorporate it somehow,” he said.

While four explosive-laden drones have recently been found in Finland, Tolonen downplayed their risk to commercial passenger flights. “After takeoff, airliners climb far above drone altitudes. I’m more concerned about drones spotted near airports during ascent and descent phases,” he explained.

Birds remain a more common hazard than drones, Tolonen noted, citing large species like swans and cranes as well as flocks of smaller birds. “They pose a real threat to aviation safety.”

The Finnish Aviation College has long avoided training flights in eastern Finland due to persistent GPS jamming, which disrupts aircraft navigation systems. “The interference and false signals prevent systems from determining the plane’s position,” Tolonen said.

He stressed that traditional flying skills—map reading, compass use, and manual control—remain critical. “Automation is no substitute for fundamental piloting abilities. These skills are essential throughout a pilot’s career.”

The Finnish Aviation College, based in Pori, trains professional pilots for commercial aviation. Its curriculum focuses on controlled airspace operations under air traffic supervision.