Aviation Operations BSc (Hons)

30 credits

This module provides a foundation in mathematics and science relevant to aviation operations and pilot training. It gives you essential analytical and problem-solving skills to apply mathematical concepts and scientific principles in an aviation context, ensuring a strong basis for future flight training and operational decision-making.

The computing component introduces you to Excel for problem-solving, data analysis, graphical representation, and visualisation.

30 credits

You will be introduced to your course learning aims and consider your anticipated learning targets from induction to graduation. You will be guided to identify and take ownership of your personal academic journey through the development and application of academic skills aligned to KU Graduate Attributes and their discipline-specific professional body learning outcomes.

You will be tutored in a range of learning-to-learn techniques, and introduced to assessment for learning and the role of feedback, reflection and feedforward as an integrated part of your learning journey. This will be supported through active engagement in KU Navigate Programme, enabling you to understand and begin to develop a design thinking approach to Future Skills development.

30 credits

This module introduces students to the principles of airline flight operations. Key topics include flight planning, air traffic control (ATC) procedures, flight dispatch, and crew resource management (CRM). The module also explores operational safety standards and abnormal situations.

30 credits

This module introduces students to the key concepts of human factors in aviation and their impact on flight safety. Topics include situational awareness, decision-making, fatigue management, and safety management systems (SMS).

Aims

• To introduce the fundamentals of human factors and aviation safety.
• To explore how human performance affects flight operations.
• To develop skills in risk assessment and safety management.

30 credits

This module provides you with an essential understanding of the airworthiness principle applicable to civilian aircraft. The module starts by covering basic principles of airworthiness and progresses to emphasise the critical aspects of continuing airworthiness and the regulatory framework governing operations and maintenance.

Through interactive lectures, seminars and workshop sessions, you will develop an understanding of the aviation operation’s regulatory framework, and continuing airworthiness requirements. By the module's conclusion, you will have the knowledge necessary for assessing and applying the principles underpinning continuing airworthiness so that aviation operations comply with the aviation sector’s regulatory bodies.

30 credits

In this module, students explore how air carriers are adopting innovative methods and technologies to enhance cargo handling and transportation. Key topics include traceability systems, barcoding, security and screening procedures, and the safe delivery of all types of cargo.

The module also introduces the principles of multimodal transportation, emphasising the critical role of air cargo in maintaining an effective and efficient global supply chain.

In addition, students will examine a range of statistical and operational research (OR) methods used to address common logistics challenges, developing analytical skills to support data-driven decision-making in supply chain and transport operations.

30 credits

This module supports students in identifying the skills acquired during their integrated pilot licence training and the early stages of their degree. It prepares them for Level 6 study by enhancing their ability to reflect on learning, develop critical thinking, and strengthen communication skills.

Aligned with Kingston University graduate attributes, the module fosters a reflective approach to learning, an appreciation of lifelong learning, creativity, and effective communication. This mirrors industry expectations, where trainee airline pilots must reflect on their performance during training phases. 

A key component involves problem-solving in flight using a flight simulator, focusing on cockpit workload mitigation. Students will apply their subject-specific knowledge, skills, and behaviours as part of an interdisciplinary team, developing solutions to flying tasks and emergencies through simulation-based learning. The teamwork project allows students to contextualise their expertise, demonstrating their ability to integrate knowledge into practical applications. This experience directly supports their preparation for the work-based project in the End-Point Assessment, equipping them with essential problem-solving and collaborative skills for professional aviation operations.

30 credits

This module supports you in identifying the skills acquired during their integrated pilot licence training and the early stages of your degree. It prepares you for Level 6 study by enhancing your ability to reflect on learning, develop critical thinking, and strengthen communication skills.

Aligned with Kingston University graduate attributes, the module fosters a reflective approach to learning, an appreciation of lifelong learning, creativity, and effective communication. This mirrors industry expectations, where trainee airline pilots must reflect on their performance during training phases.

30 credits

This module examines the strategic decision-making processes within the aviation industry. It provides you with a set of analytical tools to support long-term organisational planning. It introduces core strategic management concepts and applies modern economic and operational principles to real-world aviation scenarios.

The module covers both qualitative and quantitative tools, including scenario analysis, forecasting techniques, game theory, and linear programming. You will develop the ability to evaluate strategic options, manage uncertainty, and formulate evidence-based, data-driven strategies in airline, airport, and aviation service contexts.

30 credits

This module aims to develop students' understanding of the principles of airline and airport operations, including the interdependencies between airlines, airports, regulatory bodies, and ground service providers. It explores operational efficiency, safety, regulatory compliance, and the economic and logistical challenges that influence decision-making in the aviation industry. The module also emphasises real-world case studies, technological advancements, and sustainability in airport and airline operations.

As part of the module, flight simulator sessions will be used to reinforce operational concepts through practical, scenario-based learning. These sessions will enhance students’ situational awareness, decision-making, and problem-solving skills in realistic operational environments.

15 credits

This multidisciplinary module reflects the needs of transportation business. It explores the role of digital technology and innovation in the aviation industry, providing you with an understanding of emerging technologies, digital transformation, and their impact on operational efficiency and stakeholders experience. It covers topics such as artificial intelligence (AI), future air systems, big data analytics, digital twins, automation, and cybersecurity within aviation. The module integrates theoretical concepts with real-world applications through case studies and hands-on activities.

30 credits

This module provides you with the essential research skills and methodologies required for academic and professional investigations in aviation operations. The module will equip you with qualitative and quantitative research techniques and critical evaluation skills to conduct independent research. You will develop a research proposal and prepare for your dissertation by engaging with industry-relevant problems, ethical considerations, and data collection strategies.

15 credits

This module provides you with a dedicated opportunity to develop your Future Skills Graduate Attributes that will set you apart from other graduates and enhance your employability and confidence. At the start of the module, you will be supported to self-assess your current skills profile and determine which attributes you need to develop to support your career ambitions. 

Taught sessions will give you the opportunity to have coaching conversations with students from across the University, supported and facilitated by the Module team. Outside of these taught sessions, you will engage in activities from a menu of opportunities to develop your Graduate Attributes. 

The menu of opportunities allows you to self-select activities such as hackathons, masterclasses and taster sessions, short online learning courses, and study abroad. In your taught classes with students from across the University, you will be encouraged to reflect on the activities you undertake to develop your graduate attributes and work towards the final assignment, a portfolio.