Sean McMahon flying Scholarship

The Central Coast Aero Club (CCAC) is proud to launch the Sean McMahon Flying Scholarship, a landmark initiative that will provide $40,000 in targeted flight-training funding to three aspiring female commercial pilots from the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie regions.

Generously financed by the wife of the late Sean McMahon – a beloved CCAC member who tragically passed away in 2023 – the scholarship fulfils Sean’s lifelong dream of creating accessible pathways for local young women to pursue professional aviation careers. Sean was a passionate advocate for greater female representation in the cockpit and a devoted member of the Northern Central Coast community.

“Sean believed the skies should be open to everyone – especially the talented young women of our region,” said Mrs. McMahon. “This scholarship is his legacy in action, and we are deeply grateful to CCAC for bringing his vision to life.”

“The CCAC is honoured to administer the Sean McMahon Flying Scholarship and play our part in realising Sean’s wishes and creating such a strong new pathway for young women in our region,” added Club President, Andrew Smith. “Sean’s passion lives on through these scholarships, and we can’t wait to welcome the next generation of female pilots.”

Open exclusively to Australian citizens who are female, aged 15–30, residing in the Central Coast NSW or Lake Macquarie NSW Local Government Areas, the scholarship awards three tiered prizes:

• 1st Place ($20,000 total) 
  • $2,500 toward Recreational Pilot Licence
  • $5,500 toward Private Pilot Licence
  • $12,000 toward Commercial Pilot Licence
• 2nd Place ($12,000 total)
  • $1,500 toward Recreational Pilot Licence
  • $3,500 toward Private Pilot Licence
  • $7,000 toward Commercial Pilot Licence
• 3rd Place ($8,000 total) 
  • $1,000 toward Recreational Pilot Licence
  • $2,000 toward Private Pilot Licence
  • $5,000 toward Commercial Pilot Licence

Selection Process 

Applicants must complete a multi-stage evaluation designed to identify passion, aptitude, and potential:

1. Apply via our website – this will include an opportunity for the candidate to express their motivation for applying for the scholarship.
2. Attend a Group Briefing on Effects of Controls (first lesson in the RPL syllabus)
3. Sit a Short Theory Exam based on the briefing content
4. Complete a Discounted Introductory In-Air Lesson (Effects of Controls) – financed by the applicant at a special reduced rate

Candidates will be assessed at the discretion of the selection panel whose decision will be final. Winners will be announced in May 2026.

Key Dates 

• Applications Close: March 25th, 2026 (via web page application)
• Group Briefing: Sunday, March 29th, 2026 – 9.30am
• In-air flying lesson: To be completed by end April 2026
• Winners announced: First week May 2026

View the scholarship Terms & Conditions here