In November, Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU agreed to collaborate with Skyllence – a company specialising in organising charter flights, offering flight planning and execution services.
This partnership will create valuable career and learning opportunities for students in KSU’s Aviation Management Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes.
It has been agreed that Skyllence will offer KSU students and participants of the Aviation & Space Academy lectures, internship opportunities, and other activities, where experienced experts from the company will share their industry knowledge.
Vilma Vaitiekūnaitė, CEO of Skyllence, states that the company is ready to share its long-standing experience and expertise with KSU students, future aviation sector professionals. “As the aviation industry grows, we face a shortage of aviation administration specialists, and we see KSU, which trains the professionals needed in the aviation market, as our strategic partner in addressing this issue. We are therefore thrilled to offer students more opportunities to test themselves in different areas of aviation. We are ready to help deepen knowledge about charter flight organisation, which is our company’s area of expertise,” she says.
Deimantė Žilinskienė, Head of the School of Business Innovation and Communication at KSU, says that with this
partnership, Skyllence demonstrates social responsibility by investing in the next generation of aviation professionals. “By offering invaluable insights from their field of activity, the company will contribute to the professional development of KSU students and others interested in the aviation industry,” she notes.
About Skyllence:
The charter flight company serves clients from the business, sports, music, entertainment, and cultural sectors, offering flexible and tailored flight solutions. With years of experience, the Skyllence team collaborates only with reliable partners who meet the strictest safety standards, selecting the most suitable aircraft and routes for each client, ensuring all flights are carried out to the highest service standards.
The company handles even the most complex private jet hire and logistics requirements, fulfilling the most demanding customer requests.
From September 29th to October 2nd, 2024, the ASPro – Aviation Safety Professional Diploma project partners gathered in Amman, Jordan, for insightful meetings and field visits to Amman Arab University (AAU), Mid-East Aviation Academy (MEAA), Balqa Applied University (BAU), and Jordan University of Science & Technology (JUST).
As the partner in this project, Kazimieras Simonavicius University (KSU) was represented by Rector Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė and Erasmus Coordinator Kristina Šlekienė, who contributed to fostering collaboration with international institutions.
“Collaboration between institutions is crucial for fostering innovation in aviation education and training. Through shared expertise and resources, we can ensure a high level of safety and professional development in the industry,” said Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė.
The ASPro project aims to develop an accredited Safety Management Systems (SMS) professional diploma, a comprehensive certification designed to streamline the training process for aviation safety experts. This diploma offers a cost-effective solution, helping aviation companies invest in the professional development of their teams, even in challenging economic times. 
The project partners also include University of the Aegean (UAEGEA) (coordinator) and Creative Thinking Development (CRE.THI.DEV) from Greece, as well as Eskisehir Technical University (ESTU) from Turkey.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to elevate aviation safety education across the region!
Last week, Kazimieras Simonavicius University’s Head of the Business Innovation & Communication School, Deimantė Žilinskienė, attended the Riga Aviation Forum 2024.
D. Žilinskienė shared her valuable insights during the panel discussion “Employment and Education” alongside renowned aviation and academic experts: Ivan Berazhny, Iluta Savicka, Ilmars Blumbergs, and Kristaps Lapsa.
“There is a significant demand for aviation specialists across all areas of aviation, yet a considerable shortage. I believe we must promote this industry more, and that requires joint efforts from both academia and industry partners. I genuinely believe that aviation education should be focused and adaptable to different types of learners, as there are many opportunities to contribute and build careers in this field. In addition to excellence, innovation, I think that integrity, diversity, and inclusivity at their best should become core values in our teaching and learning” said D. Žilinskienė.
The Riga Aviation Forum brings together European and Baltic aviation stakeholders, leaders, and experts to discuss the future of aviation. The forum highlights strategic developments and innovations aimed at creating a more sustainable and climate-neutral aviation industry.
More information about the Riga Aviation Forum read here: Home – Riga Aviation Forum (raf.aero)
Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU) is launching Lithuania’s first Aviation and Space Academy, bringing together enthusiasts from these fields. The initial 12-week training programme will begin this September. We discussed the need for the Academy and its goals with Dr Deimantė Žilinskienė, head of KSU’s School of Business Innovation and Communication and a board member of the National Aviation Association LAVIA.
How did the idea to establish the Aviation and Space Academy at the university come about?
Aviation management studies have been conducted at KSU for ten years, during which the university has accumulated significant expertise in this field. Naturally, we want to share this knowledge with aviation enthusiasts. The desire and need to establish the Aviation and Space Academy at KSU has been around for a while, and this September it will become a reality with the formation of the first group. The field is also becoming more popular, and the demand for these specialists in the job market is always immense and continually growing.
The university constantly receives inquiries about the subjects covered in our Aviation Management study programme and the career opportunities after graduation. People are curious about how to become a pilot, a flight attendant, or pursue other professions in the growing aviation industry. Not everyone wants to or can pilot an aircraft, but the dream of working in aviation can be realised through other activities related to managerial competencies. The Academy aims to answer these questions and promote the aviation field.
How did the space topic become part of the academy’s programme?
Space is becoming a topic that can be explored from many perspectives. It is becoming more accessible to people – in the future, there will be more commercial flights to space, creating business expansion opportunities. This field will also require managerial competencies. Therefore, at the Academy, we will discuss not only the mysteries of space but also how we can “conquer” space by working on Earth. Lithuania aims to become a space-faring nation, and we see our mission as contributing to this ambition from an educational perspective. Notably, astronaut Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper visited Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU) on 9 May and met with the KSU academic community. The meeting was truly inspiring and left a significant impression on both students and our social partners.
What do the training sessions of the Aviation and Space Academy focus on?
We are open to everyone interested in aviation and space. Whether the training participants want to learn more about a future profession, check their interests, or simply spend time among like-minded people, all Academy participants will be united by a common theme – a passion for aviation and space. People already working in this industry and those considering how to apply their existing knowledge to create a business will find interesting topics.
What will the training sessions look like?
The training will be conducted remotely and will last 12 weeks. Each session will focus on a different topic. One day, we will talk about how to become a pilot; the next, about what a flight attendant’s life is really like. We will discuss the VIP flight industry, what the Space Agency and other space-related organisations are, how businesses in the aviation and space fields are developed, and more. We want it to become a great space for enthusiasts in these fields to meet. We expect not only interesting lectures but also engaging discussions, new acquaintances, and contacts. During the 12-week training programme, Academy participants will have a unique opportunity to meet and network with leaders in the aviation and space fields, pilots, flight attendants, airline founders, executives, renowned aviation and space experts, and others.
We aim for the lectures to be interesting. Our lecturers are professionals who have created success stories in the aviation field and are contributing to the industry’s progress today. Several lectures will be conducted in English, as we will have guest speakers from abroad. One of them is Jack Romero, a world-renowned aviation entrepreneur, mentor, and founder of British Mediterranean Airways.
“To get good results, you have to like what you do,” says Algimantas Žemaitaitis, a third-year student in Aviation Management at Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU). Immersed in the world of aviation through his studies, work, and friendships, Algimantas has found a sector that resonates deeply with him.
Hailing from the small town of Lukšiai in Lithuania, Algimantas moved to Vilnius to pursue his dreams. In the capital, he quickly discovered not only a supportive community but also a new passion: running. His dedication to middle-distance running has propelled him to impressive heights, culminating in his victory as the Lithuanian 800 metres champion in the winter season of 2024.
Balancing his rigorous academic schedule and athletic training, Algimantas still finds time for travel, socializing with friends, and enjoying the company of his puppy, Džiugas. His multifaceted life is a testament to his commitment and time management skills.
When asked about his academic journey, Algimantas reveals that KSU wasn’t his first choice. After graduating high school, he initially enrolled in another university’s aviation-related program. However, he soon found the quality of education and career prospects lacking. Upon learning about KSU’s Aviation Management program from friends who praised its practical approach and supportive faculty, he made the switch.
“At KSU, the practical aspects of the studies were highly praised by my friends who were either studying there or had graduated,” says Algimantas. He emphasizes the importance of the university’s flexibility, which allows students to balance work, studies, and personal interests. This supportive environment was crucial in his decision to transfer to KSU.
Although Algimantas is not currently working directly in the aviation sector, he finds the knowledge gained at KSU broadly applicable. “The skills and knowledge I’ve acquired, such as airport infrastructure planning, creating airline projects, and analyzing airline budgets, are relevant in various fields,” he explains. These practical experiences, coupled with the university’s comprehensive infrastructure for quality education and internships, prepare students for real-world challenges in the aviation industry.
When asked how he manages to balance his studies, work, and running, Algimantas Žemaitaitis emphasizes the importance of time management. “Discipline, time management, patience, determination, and a focused pursuit of results are useful not only in sports but also in studies,” he explains.
Thanks to a flexible study schedule at KSU, Algimantas is able to work, train, and plan his travels. “It’s very convenient to be able to join lectures remotely. If I can’t attend, I can always review the lecture recording. I can often arrange exams at a time that suits me, without sacrificing any of my other activities,” he says. He also appreciates the university’s opportunities to connect with real aviation professionals who sincerely and devotedly share their experience, advice, and knowledge. “It’s great to learn from people who have achieved a lot in this field. KSU lectures are not just dry theory,” Algimantas notes.
Algimantas remains active outside the classroom as well. He coached the university’s running team, participates in university events, and represented KSU in Lithuanian student athletics competitions. “The opportunity to engage in other activities allows me to grow as a person,” he says.
To future students, Algimantas advises listening to themselves, evaluating their interests, and finding friends who can share their university experiences.
Kazimieras Simonavicius University (KSU) launches a new International Master’s Degree programme in Aviation Management, starting September 2024. This initiative extends our existing bachelor’s degree in aviation management, broadening the academic horizon and offering an advanced educational path in this dynamic field. Enrolment is now open, welcoming students from across the globe.
Building on a legacy of excellence
Under the guidance of KSU Rector Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė, the addition of the master’s programme is a testament to KSU’s longstanding expertise and commitment to aviation management. “The introduction of the master’s degree in aviation management signifies a key advancement for KSU and demonstrates our deep roots and continuous innovation in the aviation sector,” says Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė. This development is not only a stride forward for the university but also for Lithuania, enhancing the country’s standing in the international educational arena.
A closer look at the master’s programme
The programme is crafted to cater to the evolving needs of the aviation industry, preparing students to become professional aviation specialists and managers. With a curriculum delivered in English and designed around the requirements of the global market, the programme includes a robust lineup of expert lecturers and industry practitioners from around the world.
Curriculum and learning approach
The master’s programme focuses on developing managerial and leadership skills tailored for the aviation industry. Courses are designed to address the latest trends and practices, equipping students with knowledge and skills relevant to their future careers.
Flexible learning for professionals
The bachelor’s degree programme in Aviation Management at Kazimieras Simonavicius University is among Europe’s most sought-after choices in this field. Each year, it draws students not only from Lithuania but also from other European and Asian countries. “The exceptional academic and professional achievements of our students underscore the programme’s effectiveness, with many alumni quickly advancing in their careers. This success can be attributed to the programme’s global approach, which includes instruction from world-renowned aviation experts and practitioners and fosters a network of like-minded professionals who collaborate and grow together. Recognizing the demands of professional life, the programme offers a continuous distance learning format, allowing students to manage their studies alongside work commitments. Our programme is specially designed for those who are already part of the industry and are looking to elevate their careers without sacrificing their current roles,” explains Deimantė Žilinskienė, Head of KSU’s School of Business Innovation and Communication.
Career opportunities and industry connections
As highlighted by Aleksandras Nemunaitis, Chairman of the Board of the National Aviation Association LAVIA, the aviation industry extends far beyond the traditional roles of pilots and cabin crew.
“Despite the absence of national airlines, Lithuania boasts a robust aviation network with Lithuanian-owned companies managing approximately 250 aircraft globally. These operations are primarily based on the Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) model, which enhances efficiency by allowing airlines to share resources and optimize flight operations. This model is pivotal in a country like Lithuania, where the aviation landscape is shaped by these unique operational strategies,” states Nemunaitis.
According to him, “the significance of KSU’s specialized studies in Aviation Management is evident as thousands of professionals’ work from Lithuanian offices to manage and operate flights across the world. This industry-specific education ensures that aviation companies have access to well-trained professionals, fostering a workforce capable of meeting international standards and demands. The master’s programme at KSU, therefore, is not just an educational pathway but a vital component in supporting the aviation industry’s infrastructure and operational needs in Lithuania and beyond.”
Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for high-level positions such as middle or senior managers, team leaders, and supervisors in various sectors of the aviation industry. The course also lays a foundation for students interested in launching startups within the aviation field.
Collaboration and networking
KSU’s programme emphasizes networking, bringing together like-minded professionals and building a community that supports career and personal growth. Our partnerships with leading aviation companies and associations ensure that our curriculum remains industry-relevant and provides our students with unmatched professional opportunities.
We invite aspiring aviation managers and professionals looking to advance their careers to apply to this innovative master’s programme. At KSU, you will gain not just an education but a stepping stone into a promising future in the aviation industry.
For more details about the programme and to apply, please visit our website: Aviation Management Master
Baltic Ground Services (BGS), a leading name in international ground handling, aircraft refueling, and logistics, has announced a significant collaboration with Kazimieras Simonavicius University (KSU) to deliver IATA Authorized Training. This partnership aims to blend academic rigor with practical expertise, preparing students for promising careers in aviation.
The training, which is recognized as the gold standard in the aviation industry by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), will be conducted by seasoned BGS experts alongside KSU’s academic team. Together, they will offer comprehensive theoretical and practical sessions. This initiative is set to enhance the training of future aviation professionals by integrating real-world applications with classroom learning.
Kazimieras Simonavičius University has been conducting introductory Aviation Safety, Airline Finance and Revenue Management, and Cargo Transportation courses for several years.
In partnership with BGS, it will add courses in Passenger Ground Handling and Airport Ramp Services with IATA Ground Handling Operations Manual (IGOM).
The development of these new courses involves meticulous planning and input from both BGS and KSU experts, utilizing IATA’s comprehensive training materials. Vytautas Čekanavičius, CEO of BGS, highlights the company’s commitment to quality education: “We bring a wealth of practical experience from diverse markets and projects. Our goal is to pass this knowledge on to the next generation, ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the aviation sector.”
Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė, Rector of KSU, sees the collaboration with BGS as a strategic move to enhance the university’s educational offerings. “This partnership not only broadens our training portfolio but also enriches our students’ learning experience with invaluable practical knowledge,” she remarks. “Our aim is to equip students with skills that are directly applicable in the job market, which is crucial in today’s competitive environment.”
The alliance between BGS and KSU represents a forward-thinking approach to aviation education, emphasizing the importance of blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience to forge a well-rounded and job-ready workforce in the aviation industry.
At Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU), dreams take flight, and for Augustė Starkutė, the sky was never the limit. From watching rocket launches in her backyard to earning a prestigious Fulbright scholarship, her journey embodies the spirit of exploration and ambition.
Augustė’s odyssey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management at KSU, where she was nurtured by expert guidance from luminaries like Dr. Konstantinos Kalligiannis. Inspired by her mentor, she set her sights on furthering her education abroad, driven by the scarcity of aviation studies in Lithuania. With determination as her compass, she embarked on a quest for excellence.
Her destination? Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the United States, a beacon of innovation in aviation education. Here, Augustė found herself not only equipped with the knowledge gleaned from her undergraduate studies but also enriched by her hands-on experience in airport operations and travel agencies. The transition from KSU to Embry-Riddle felt seamless, a testament to the quality of education she received back home.
“Studying for a Master’s degree in the United States is entirely up to the student,“Augustė reflects. “It’s about the pace of learning and the resources at hand.” Armed with a Fulbright scholarship, she seized the opportunity to delve deeper into her passion for aviation, aspiring to specialize in safety, security, and sustainability management.
The Fulbright Scholarship, a symbol of academic excellence and cultural exchange, became her ticket to realizing her dreams. Initiated by the US Embassy in Lithuania, this prestigious award empowers scholars to pursue their chosen fields of study in the United States. Augustė’s application in the spring of 2022 paved the way for her to join the academic cohort of 2023/2024, marking the beginning of a transformative journey.
As she prepares to immerse herself in her studies, Augustė remains steadfast in her commitment to her homeland. “According to the Fulbright scholarship requirements, it is mandatory to return to your home country,” she affirms. Her sights set on contributing to the aviation landscape in Lithuania, she embraces the opportunity to pay it forward, nurturing the aspirations of future aviators.
To those who dare to dream of soaring to new heights, Augustė offers sage advice: “Be brave, seize every opportunity, and never give up. Your journey may have turbulence, but perseverance will always be your copilot.“
KSU representatives attended the “Vantaa Business Day 2023” in Finland. On November 9–10, the Rector of Kazimieras Simonavicius University, Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaite, and the Head of the School of Business Innovation and Communication, Doc. Deimantė Žilinskienė, participated in the Aviation Industry and Future Insights Researchers Meeting in Helsinki.
The meeting focused on trends in aviation city development, collaboration between cities and universities in education, research, and development, and the future needs of aviation training. Discussions also centered on leveraging artificial intelligence and big data for the Tourism, Aviation, and Hospitality Experiences Cluster (THE Cluster), as well as exploring entrepreneurial and service opportunities at airports.
Additionally, KSU representatives were actively involved in “Vantaa Business Day 2023.” The event’s theme this year was “Digitalization, artificial intelligence, and evolving competency requirements in business”. The Business Day stands as one of Vantaa’s largest business seminars, annually attracting around 300 business professionals from the region and beyond.
On November 9th, Chancellor Gabija Skučaitė of Kazimieras Simonavicius University, along with representatives from the International Relations and Strategic Development Department, met with a delegation from the Civil Aviation Academy of Kazakhstan (CAA). The CAA delegation included Chairman of the Board and Rector Beken K. Seidakhmetov, Vice-Rector for Science and Digitalization Prof. Dr. Kairant T. Koshekov, and the Director of the Simulation Flight Center, Daulet Tureakhmetov.
During the meeting, Rector B. K. Seidakhmetov presented the activities of the Academy and the extensive collaboration opportunities in various areas, such as science, mobility, double degree programs, information exchange, internships, professional development, and joint science and technical projects. The Rector also emphasized the Kazakh government’s commitment to supporting science and education in the fields of transportation and logistics, allocating funds accordingly.
It is worth mentioning that in March of this year, KSU signed a cooperation agreement with the Civil Aviation Academy. CAA is the only higher education institution in the Republic of Kazakhstan that trains aviation specialists according to international ICAO, EASA, and IATA requirements.
On Tuesday, a conference titled “Implementation of the Unmanned Aircraft Regulations: Opportunities and Challenges” was organized by Air Navigation to share experiences and discuss how unmanned aircraft (drone) traffic will be managed with the introduction of the U-Space management system.
“The U-Space service system will be deployed and tested in the summer of 2024 and will allow drone pilots to monitor the airspace in real time and air traffic controllers to receive information about and manage drone flights to authorize them to fly.
During the conference, we learned about countries’ experiences in providing U-Space services to ensure safe drone flights.
Presentations were made by Air Navigation, the Agency for Transport Excellence, U-Space system manufacturer Frequentis AG, drone operators, and manufacturers.
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