About - Tie-Upp Aviation Pro

THE AVIATION CALLING

You're probably reading this because something about aviation has always captured your imagination. Perhaps you've fantasised about being in the cockpit, hands on the controls, feeling that rush as the wheels leave the ground. Or maybe you're looking to turn that childhood fascination into a real career path.

Why fly to dream? Because as you fly, you set bigger dreams and chase bigger goals in life. There's something about being up there, above it all, that gives you a new perspective on what's possible.

For many pilots, that first solo flight is an experience to remember for life. Soon you're dreaming of flying bigger planes, exploring new destinations, or maybe even breaking records. And with each flight, you're not just logging hours; you're building the confidence to tackle whatever challenges come your way.

THE TIE-UPP AVIATION PRO STORY

Tie-Upp Aviation was born out of a shared passion for aviation and a desire to solve the challenges faced by aspiring pilots. Founded by the Dodd brothers, who are lifelong aviation enthusiasts, the organisation was created to break down the barriers that often stand in the way of achieving a career in aviation.

With a commitment to making high-quality, sustainable aviation training accessible to everyone, Tie-Upp Aviation has become a leading provider known for its innovative programmes and dedication to student success.

THE TIE-UPP AVIATION PRO ADVANTAGE

We are a passionate, close-knit team of family and friends committed to making high-quality aviation education accessible to everyone. The Pro division was established to meet the growing demand from students worldwide who want to pursue full-time courses with us.

Our programmes are designed to be efficient, affordable, and sustainable, ensuring that every student receives top-notch training and gains the necessary skills to confidently take the next step in the aviation industry. By breaking down barriers, we make it possible for aspiring pilots to succeed in a competitive field.

THE NEW ZEALAND ADVANTAGE

Breathtaking Flying Environment
As one of the most stunning countries in the world, New Zealand offers breathtaking flying environments paired with world-class aviation standards and globally recognised safety practices.
Student Fee Protection
A critical advantage of training in New Zealand is the robust Student Fee Protection policies, which safeguard your investment in education and give you complete peace of mind.

DISCOVER CHRISTCHURCH & RANGIORA

Christchurch - Perfect Base
Nestled in New Zealand's stunning South Island, Christchurch perfectly blends urban convenience with natural beauty. As a well-connected international hub, it offers easy access and endless opportunities for adventure.
Rangiora Airfield - Prime Training
Just 30 minutes from Christchurch Airport, Rangiora features six runways and diverse aviation activities. A quick 6-minute flight lets you train alongside airliners at a major international airport.

OUR JOURNEY OF INNOVATION

2017
We began our journey by testing aircraft in Italy and Slovenia, securing modern, fuel-efficient trainers for our programmes.
2018
Building on our parent organisation, Tie-Upp, known for sports projects since 2013, we registered Tie-Upp Overseas Limited Partnership in New Zealand and registered the first Pipistrel Alpha Trainer as an LSA in the country.
2019
We gained approval for the first Pipistrel Alpha Trainer LSA aircraft for commercial flight tests in New Zealand, setting new standards in aviation training.
2022
We made history by becoming the first flight training organisation globally to achieve ToitΕ« carbonzero certification, showcasing our commitment to sustainability.
2023
We continued to grow by adding a second Pipistrel Alpha Trainer LSA aircraft to our fleet, enhancing our ability to offer top-tier, eco-friendly training.
2025
We achieved three major milestones: our flight simulator received approval for loggable training hours; we expanded our fleet with a Cessna 152 Aerobat imported from America; and we gained New Zealand Qualifications Authority approval to sponsor international student visas and launch full-time programmes for domestic and international students.

STUNNING TRAINING ENVIRONMENT

  • Small airplane flying in clear sky with snow-capped mountains in the background and farm buildings in the foreground.

    Rangiora airfield - our training base

  • Pilot in the cockpit of a small aircraft flying over mountainous terrain during sunset.

  • Small airplane flying above a thick layer of clouds during sunrise or sunset.

  • Two individuals are seated in front of multiple screens representing an aircraft cockpit simulation, with a virtual view of a cityscape on the screens outside the cockpit.

  • Inside the cockpit of a small aircraft during sunset with a view of mountains and the flat landscape below.

  • Small hangar at an airfield with two small aircraft parked outside, blue sky with clouds overhead, and a car in the background.

  • Classroom with green chairs, white tables, a whiteboard with notes, a television, and windows with sheer curtains

  • View from an airplane window showing the landscape below with green farmland and roads at sunset, with the airplane wing partially visible.

  • Aerial view of a small airport runway with the number 25 painted at the end, surrounded by grassy fields, hangars, and some buildings.

  • Aerial view of an airport with runways and buildings, seen from a plane flying overhead on a cloudy day.

  • Small white aircraft with streamlined body and high wings parked on an airfield under cloudy sky, with airport terminal and control tower in the background.

  • Emirates airline airplane taxiing on the runway at an airport with control tower in background, mountains behind.

PIPISTREL ALPHA TRAINER

Known as : Clifford

The aircraft that started it all. Clifford launched Tie-Upp Aviation and made our dream a reality.

  • 222 kmph

  • 1250 ft / min

  • 10 litres / hour

  • 18000 ft

  • Day / Night VFR

  • Full Airframe Parachute System.

    In the rarest of emergencies, pull the handle and the entire aircraft descends safely under a ballistic parachute. It’s the kind of protection you hope to never use, but always want on board.

PIPISTREL ALPHA TRAINER

Known as : Togo

Our second family member and Clifford's trusted companion. Togo brings her own personality.

Small white aircraft flying in clear blue sky with logos and text on its fuselage.

  • 222 kmph

  • 1250 ft / min

  • 10 litres / hour

  • 18000 ft

  • Day / Night VFR

  • Full Airframe Parachute System.

    In the rarest of emergencies, pull the handle and the entire aircraft descends safely under a ballistic parachute. It’s the kind of protection you hope to never use, but always want on board.

TUAST 1000

Approved flight simulator

Our custom built simulator for students to log hours to meet instrument requirements from PPL through CPL and instrument ratings.

Inside a cockpit at night with a person driving, illuminated instrument panels, digital screens showing navigation and aircraft data, and a view of a dark empty runway through the windshield.

CESSNA 152 AEROBAT SPARROWHAWK IFR

Known as : Dennis

The third member of our growing family opens new possibilities. We sourced one of the world's rarest, lowest-time C152 Aerobats for our fleet. With Dennis, we now offer aerobatics and IFR training opportunities.

Small single-engine airplane flying in a clear sky with landing gear extended.

  • 203 kmph

  • 700 ft / min

  • 20 litres / hour

  • 14000 ft

  • Day / Night VFR-IFR

  • Pilot Parachutes for Aerobatics

    When the flight profile gets extreme, safety stays supreme. Each pilot is equipped with an emergency parachute β€” because smart aerobatics start with smart planning.