Discover your future in aviation with Wizz Air as the programme’s professional partner. The Aviation Services Manager Executive Diploma Programme is designed for graduates and professionals who are passionate about aviation and want to build, develop or redirect their careers in this dynamic international industry. Application deadline: 20 September 2026

Aviation Services Manager Executive Diploma Programme

Developed with the professional partnership of Wizz Air, the programme connects academic expertise with current industry knowledge and real-world aviation experience. Whether participants already work in aviation, are considering a career change or simply wish to turn their interest in the sector into professional expertise, the programme provides an accessible pathway into the world of aviation management.

Participants explore the operation and management of airlines, airports and aviation services through practical examples, industry-focused assignments and insights from experienced professionals. The curriculum covers airline operations, airport functions, aviation law, safety and security, sustainability, customer experience, service development, hospitality and retail management, and the wider economic and regional role of air services.

Develop the knowledge, managerial competencies and international perspective needed to contribute to the future of aviation.

Programme at a Glance:

Discover the programme

In the video, Dr Petra Gyurácz-Németh, Head of the Programme, introduces the programme.

Inside the Aviation Services Manager Programme

In the video, Dr Petra Gyurácz-Németh, Head of the Programme, talks with Istvan Sajti, Senior OCC Manager for Wizz Air UK Operations at Wizz Air Hungary Ltd., about the programme and the world of aviation.

A Comprehensive and Industry-Focused Programme

Aviation is a global and highly practice-oriented industry undergoing continuous transformation. Technological development, changing passenger expectations, sustainability requirements and an increasingly complex regulatory environment all create new challenges for airlines, airports and aviation service providers.

The Aviation Services Manager Executive Diploma Programme provides comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical insight into the management of modern aviation services. It introduces participants to the essential areas of airline and airport operations while also addressing safety, service quality, customer experience, sustainability and strategic decision-making.

The programme prepares participants to understand aviation as an integrated service system in which airlines, airports, passengers, destinations, regulators and business partners are closely connected.

Build the Skills to Shape the Future of Aviation

The programme develops the managerial, analytical and decision-making competencies required to succeed in a rapidly evolving international industry.

  • Understand the operational and strategic processes of airlines and airports;
  • Evaluate and improve the quality of aviation services;
  • Create customer-centred and experience-based services;
  • Respond to operational, commercial and regulatory challenges;
  • Support safe and sustainable aviation practices;
  • Work effectively in multicultural professional environments;
  • Contribute to innovation and service development;
  • Understand the wider economic and regional impact of air connectivity.

The programme combines university-level academic expertise with a strong industry focus, enabling participants to apply their knowledge directly in professional practice.

Aviation Services Manager Executive Diploma Programme

Next programme start: 1 October 2026
Application period: 27 August 2026 – 20 September 2026
The programme is subject to a minimum number of enrolled participants.

The Aviation Services Manager Executive Diploma Programme aims to provide participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical competencies relating to the complex world of aviation.

The programme introduces participants to:

  • the fundamental principles and processes of the aviation industry;
  • the essential aspects of airline and airport operations;
  • the legal and regulatory environment of aviation;
  • the principles of safety, security and sustainability;
  • customer experience and service quality in aviation;
  • the development of innovative and experience-based services;
  • multicultural customer service;
  • the role of air services in tourism and regional development.

The programme prepares professionals who are capable of:

  • contributing to the operational and strategic management of airlines;
  • understanding and coordinating airport-related services;
  • improving customer service and passenger experience;
  • creating competitive aviation service propositions;
  • applying strategic thinking in a dynamic business environment;
  • responding effectively to internal and external industry challenges;
  • supporting the development of regions and destinations through air connectivity.

A central objective of the programme is to equip graduates with competitive knowledge that can be successfully applied in national and international aviation organisations.

The programme is designed for graduates and professionals who want to gain specialised managerial knowledge of aviation services. It welcomes both applicants who already work in the sector and enthusiastic graduates who are seeking an entry point into aviation.

It is particularly suitable for:

  • professionals currently working for airlines, airports or aviation service providers;
  • employees seeking to prepare for specialist or managerial responsibilities;
  • professionals working in tourism, hospitality, transport or logistics;
  • customer service and customer experience specialists;
  • professionals involved in commercial services, retail or passenger services;
  • graduates planning to enter the aviation industry;
  • managers seeking to broaden their knowledge of airline and airport operations;
  • professionals interested in international and multicultural business environments;
  • graduates with a strong interest in aviation who wish to turn that interest into professional knowledge.

Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent former college-level qualification, in any field of study. Previous professional experience in aviation is an advantage but is not a requirement.

There is no entrance examination. Applicants are required to complete and submit the programme application form.

>>> DOWNLOAD THE APPLICATION FORM <<<

Completed application form and the copy of the degree should be submitted by email.
Email: bujna.hajnalka@gtk.uni-pannon.hu

The programme lasts for two semesters. It has been designed to provide an intensive but manageable learning experience for participants who wish to combine postgraduate studies with their existing professional responsibilities.

Participants must obtain 60 ECTS credits to complete the programme. The curriculum consists of foundation modules, specialised aviation modules and an applied thesis.

Tuition fee: 450.000 HUF per semester

The programme is offered on a self-funded basis. The tuition fee covers participation in the programme and access to the online teaching and learning activities included in the curriculum.

The programme is officially offered in a part-time study mode and is delivered entirely online, providing maximum flexibility for participants who wish to advance their careers or enter the aviation sector without interrupting their employment, relocating or travelling regularly to campus.

Participants can join the programme from anywhere, making it accessible to professionals and graduates living in different cities and countries, as well as to those working across aviation, tourism, transport and related service industries.

Classes are held as live online sessions, enabling participants to interact directly with university lecturers, aviation experts and fellow participants. The digital learning environment supports active participation through:

  • interactive lectures and seminars;
  • professional discussions;
  • aviation-related case studies;
  • practical assignments;
  • collaborative projects;
  • presentations and group work;
  • guest lectures delivered by industry professionals.

The fully online format combines the accessibility of digital education with personal interaction and practice-oriented learning. Participants become part of a professional learning community while retaining the flexibility needed to manage work, family and other commitments.

Any additional company events, professional programmes, site visits or networking opportunities offered in connection with the programme are optional and are not required for programme completion.

The programme consists of two semesters, with participants completing 30 ECTS credits in each semester. The official English course titles follow the approved curriculum.

Foundation Courses: Safety and Security in Tourism, Sustainability, Service Development in Tourism, Customer Service in a Multicultural Environment

Core Professional Courses: Managing Customer Experience in Aviation, Aviation Fundamentals, Aviation Law I–II, Role of Air Services in Spatial Development, Airline Operations, Functional Areas of Airports, Hospitality and Retail Management

Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates receive a postgraduate qualification with the following official title: AVIATION SERVICES MANAGER

The qualification certifies advanced professional knowledge and managerial competencies in the field of aviation services.

To complete the programme, participants must:

  • obtain the required 60 ECTS credits;
  • successfully complete all curricular requirements;
  • submit an accepted thesis;
  • defend the thesis;
  • pass the final comprehensive professional examination.
The programme prepares graduates for specialist, project-based and managerial responsibilities in a wide range of aviation and aviation-related organisations. It can support both entry into the aviation industry and career progression for professionals already working in the sector.

Potential career areas include:

  • airline operations;
  • airport operations and services;
  • passenger services;
  • customer experience management;
  • service quality management;
  • aviation safety and security;
  • ground handling;
  • airport hospitality and retail;
  • commercial aviation services;
  • route and regional development;
  • aviation-related project management;
  • transport and logistics;
  • aviation consulting;
  • tourism and destination management organisations;
  • public-sector organisations connected to mobility and regional development.

Professional Recommendation – Istvan Sajti, Senior OCC Manager of Wizz Air UK Operations, Wizz Air Hungary Ltd.

“The Aviation Services Manager Executive Diploma Programme provides a unique opportunity to access higher education regardless of previous academic background, making it an inclusive pathway for professionals from diverse fields. It is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a career change, offering the knowledge and industry insights needed to successfully transition into the aviation sector. The programme enables participants to deepen their understanding of aviation operations, management practices, and the broader industry environment. Designed not only for aviation professionals, but it is also equally suitable for those who are only beginning their aviation journey, providing a strong foundation for future development in the industry. By bringing together experienced practitioners and newcomers, the programme creates a valuable learning environment that encourages networking, knowledge sharing, and professional growth.”

Professional Recommendation – András Ivánkovics, Teamleader, Vienna AirPort Contact Center

“In my opinion, the Aviation Services Manager Executive Diploma Programme at the University of Pannonia fills an important gap and offers a unique educational opportunity. I recommend it to students and professionals who see their future in aviation, whether their desired position is with an airline or at an airport. The programme provides comprehensive fundamental knowledge of aviation, which can make an important contribution to building a successful professional career.”

Professional Recommendation – Dr Dávid Tóth, Terminal Manager at Munich Airport

“The Aviation Services Manager Postgraduate Specialisation Programme is intended for professionals who already hold a higher education qualification, are actively working and see their future in aviation. Their objective is to become the professionals of the future and develop confident, applicable knowledge through international experience, an understanding of aviation trends and insight into the innovative and increasingly diverse operation of airports. The programme aims to educate professionals who are not only able to understand the distinctive features of aviation development but can later influence and shape the industry through the knowledge they have acquired. They may lead projects at airports, take on managerial responsibilities or contribute to the development of aviation services. With the involvement of recognised industry experts, the programme provides opportunities to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insight, creating a strong foundation for a successful career.”

Further information:

Dr Petra GYURÁCZ-NÉMETH 
Head of the Programme

Department of Tourism

Adress: Egyetem u. 10., Building A, 1st floor, Office A/106, 8200 Veszprém, Hungary
Email: nemeth.petra@gtk.uni-pannon.hu
Phone: +36 88 624 – 202