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16 Best Flight Training Schools: Get Your Career Off the Ground!

Written by College Cliffs Team At CollegeCliffs.com, our team, comprising seasoned educators and counselors, is committed to supporting students on their journey through graduate studies. Our advisors, holding advanced degrees in diverse fields, provide tailored guidance, current program details, and pragmatic tips on navigating application procedures.

Reviewed by Linda Weems I got started researching colleges and universities about 10 years ago while exploring a second career. While my second career ended up being exactly what I’m doing now, and I didn’t end up going to college, I try to put myself in your shoes every step of the way as I build out College Cliffs as a user-friendly resource for prospective students.

Updated: March 30, 2024, Reading time: 26 minutes

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Do you have dreams of becoming a pilot or a flight attendant?

Are you interested to learn more about how the world of aviation works?

When I began researching this topic for this article, I had zero desire to become an airplane pilot, but after seeing the excitement this field of study can produce, I can see why so many men and women choose this profession!

Linda Weems, Chief Editor

Aviation is a very interesting subject to study because of the many types of jobs available in this field (which we get into down the page), with each job requiring diverse levels of certifications, training, and education.

Flight Training Schools

The industry of air transportation in the US is constantly growing! With a significant number of people flying to get to their destinations, air transportation has become more feasible than buses, cars, or trains. After all, airplanes get us to our destination the fastest!

Here’s a snapshot of the schools you’ll discover below, listed in no particular order, as each school has its own unique pros and strengths!

Purdue University – University of North Dakota – The Ohio State University – San Jose State University – Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – Academy College – Hallmark University – Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology – Rio Salado College – L3 Flight Academy – Kansas State University – Western Michigan University – Utah Valley University – Florida Institute of Technology – Aviation Institute of Maintenance – Delaware State University

College Cliffs is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Best Flight Training and Aviation Colleges

Purdue University

Flight Training Schools

Purdue’s School of Aviation and Transportation Technology provides an intensive teaching model with comprehensive hands-on training and education techniques.

Since Purdue University focuses on teaching and the sciences, the university’s aviation school can surely match up with its ranking.  

Purdue’s aviation college has 7 undergraduate aviation degrees:

They also offer graduate school programs such as:

Check out Purdue’s Flight Safety Simulator!

University of North Dakota

Flight Training Schools

University of North Dakota’s John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences is proud of its high standards of professional flying school sans the astronomical tuition fees that students worry about. They offer five program objectives:

This aviation school has undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs. With each program, you can add a specialty certification or a minor if you wish to. All the programs also include mandatory flight course requirements.

While the cost of aviation classes is relatively high, there are financial aid and scholarships for students who can meet eligibility requirements.

UND’s website has the coolest video showcasing all of the amazing parts of their aviation department! Click the link below to land on UND’s Aerospace YouTube page!

https://www.youtube.com/@UNDAerospace1

The Ohio State University

Flight Training Schools

The College of Engineering’s Center for Aviation Studies of the Ohio State University is deemed one of the world’s best aviation colleges.

Partnerships between the university and prominent agencies in the aviation industry guarantee students with better employment opportunities like research and internship, along with post-graduation employment. Graduate and undergraduate programs are offered at this school.

Their undergraduate programs include:

Students taking up any major degree program can also add a professional pilot specialization that will pave their way toward earning a Commercial Pilot’s Certificate.

OSU’s aviation program is top-notch!

San Jose State University

Flight Training Schools

The College of Engineering of San Jose State University offers a Department of Aviation and Technology. They offer two bachelor’s programs:

Within these degrees, you can specialize in:

The school also offers a master’s program, perfect for full-time working professionals, as these classes are offered during the evening or online.

Be sure to watch SJSU’s Aviation Club’s video!

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University

Flight Training Schools

Founded in the early 70s, the Embry Riddle Aeronautical University has more than 170 locations worldwide and is currently the leading provider of degree programs for aviation education. This school offers a variety of non-degree and degree programs in aerospace and aviation.

According to the US News and World Report, the school’s aerospace engineering program has consistently topped the nation for nine straight years.

They also have online degree program offerings like a bachelor’s or associate degree in:

Their master’s degree programs include:

Each curriculum program provides extensive study in the field of aeronautical science. It also includes:

Students also get to explore core areas like ethics, philosophy, geography, humanities, and psychology.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has excellent online programs! Check out this informative video today!

Academy College

Flight Training Schools

Academy College has several degree options in the field of aviation:

Flight training for their pilot programs commences during the first quarter of study and utilizes both ground school and actual flight training.

To have the most intensive educational experience, students get to learn either on a single or a multi-engine aircraft.  

The school has a structured and result-oriented curriculum to ensure that all their students are geared with the proper training and knowledge crucial to becoming successful pilots.

All the courses they offer are FAA-approved and are secured under FAR Part 141.

Academy College’s website has posted an interesting video of an Academy College student on an introductory flight. Check it out! This could be you!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sa7bK9khKds&t=15s

Hallmark University

Flight Training Schools

Established in 1969, Hallmark University is a private school aimed at providing industry-relevant programs. The School of Aeronautics at this university has both associate and diploma programs:

These programs span 15 months and are designed to prepare graduate students with the necessary knowledge and skills required to become professionals in the aviation field. Students can learn how to correctly diagnose an aircraft issue as well as maintain and repair this aircraft.

All program curricula adhere to the regulations and requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration to ensure that students are qualified to take FAA-administered certification exams.

The school also provides a test incentive program. Here, students can earn vouchers that can assist them in paying for the cost of every test. Furthermore, Hallmark University also has diploma programs such as airframe technicians, aviation technicians, or power plant technicians.

These programs need between 54 and 90 credits and intensive hours of practice (1174-1926 hours) to hone their learned skills.

Watch this YouTube video about how Hallmark University will assist you in learning how to maintain aeronautic equipment:

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology

Flight Training Schools

Spartan College was established in 1928, and to this day, it has produced numerous graduates who have excelled and made impressive contributions to the aviation industry!

Their suite of programs tackles the many facets of the industry, including the areas of:

The aviation program is either a diploma program or offered at the associate’s and bachelor’s levels. Students can pursue diploma programs in:

Spartan College’s Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance, along with other majors in avionics, gears the students for an entry-level position.

The Bachelor of Science in Aviation Technology Management combines education, training, and experience to guarantee that graduates are properly equipped with the needed skills to become successful in their chosen field. It can be completed in 16 months.

Learn more today about Spartan College’s Aviation program!

Rio Salado College

Flight Training Schools

Rio Salado College has a successful thirty-year history and has served more than 20,000 people. They offer flexible and customized degree programs that are specifically tailored to meet the needs of each individual.

As a student, you can choose to have:

The school’s Associate Degree in Applied Science (AAS) in Airline Operations is designed to prepare each student with the basic skills required to handle the many facets of airline operations while being fully compliant with FAA regulations.

Besides gaining fundamental airline operation acumen, graduates also emerge with strong interpersonal skills in:

Train on an Air Force training base through Rio Salado College. Take a look!

L3Harris Flight Academy

Flight Training Schools

Created by Comair Airlines, the L3 Harris Flight Academy is now owned by Delta Connections. It was established in 1989 as a flight school and has since been considered one of the leading institutions for pilot training.

They have produced top first officer candidates for several regional airlines. This academy has 73 aircraft in its fleet, and most of its graduates are now employed in over 30 airlines!

Originally, LFA was a flight school that offered pilot training. Over time, they began to offer bachelor’s and associate degree programs via joint partnerships with:

The fast-paced Professional Pilot program can be completed in two years, with courses such as:

It has two phases each of which has a duration of 12 months:

For more valuable information about L3Harris’ impressive aviation program and training fleet size, click this link below:

Kansas State University

Flight Training Schools

Kansas State University offers a Professional Aviation Bachelor’s Degree program through its K-State Salina. It is a 100% online program with 8- and 16-week courses, providing students with the flexibility to complete their degrees. 

K-State Salina’s aviation degree is ideal for students with aviation licensure, ratings, academic credits, certificates, and other aviation-related credentials.

The program builds upon current skills and knowledge and provides a pathway to advance students’ credentials in the aviation industry. Apart from current experience, the university allows students to transfer up to 60 credit hours, as well as applicable military service.

The university offers Associate’s and Bachelor’s programs in Professional Pilot studies through its K-State Aerospace and Technology Campus.

It is one of the few programs in the U.S. that allows students to fly a CRJ 700 or Canadair Regional Jet simulator, resembling the Bombardier airplanes.

Through the simulator, students gain hands-on experience running systems, checklist flows, and other avionics processes. Students can also quickly move from classroom to flight line since the campus is near Salina Regional Airport, where they can experience practical training on a 12,300-foot runway. 

The professional pilot degree program is FAA-approved, allowing students to complete commercial pilot training in as few as 190 hours for a baccalaureate program. The training also qualifies students to get the Restricted Airline Transport Pilot Certificate in as few as 1,250 hours for the associate degree or 1,500 hours for the bachelor’s degree.

Check out K-State Salina’s Professional Pilot College Experience. Watch this:

Western Michigan University

Flight Training Schools

Accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International, Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation offers a variety of programs in aviation studies, namely:

The Aviation Flight Science program is ideal for students with no flight experience.

WMich’s B.S. in Aviation Technical Operations program prepares students in the aircraft manufacturing, repair, and maintenance fields.

The program focuses on aircraft inspection, testing, system design, and structures. Students gain training and hands-on experience through small, single-engine aircraft, such as Cessna 182 and 172.

The university also has several aircraft for maintenance training, including:

Since the university is a Federal Aviation Regulation Part 147 Aviation Technical Operations school, graduates can qualify to take the exams for the FAA mechanics license with powerplant and airframe ratings.

Students can enroll in WMich’s Aviation Minors to complement their academic credentials, including:

The Air Force ROTC program is offered in collaboration with Michigan State University. It is an academic opportunity for men and women to become a Space Force or Air Force officer while completing a degree.

As part of the curriculum, students take the General Military Course during their freshman and sophomore years, allowing them to try out the Air Force ROTC for two years without obligation.

Students enrolled in this program will complete the Army ROTC elective curriculum and the required course requirements.

Specialized Training is a set of elective training courses that are excellent options to jumpstart a career in the aviation industry. Students can enroll in:

Watch this YouTube video about WMU’s recently updated fleet:

Utah Valley University

Flight Training Schools

The School of Aviation Sciences at Utah Valley University offers three aviation-related degree programs:

The Professional Pilot program’s curriculum includes FAA flight training and leaves graduates with a minimum Commercial Pilot Certificate. Students can also enroll for additional certificates through Multi-Engine Instructor as electives. 

Enrollment in the Professional Pilot program credits students’ previous academic courses, FAA pilot ratings and certificates, and industry experiences.

The program is offered on campus and online, with flight training completed at the Provo, Utah facility or the student’s flight school of choice.

Since UVU’s Part 141 training facility is FAA-approved, graduates can complete 1,000 hours of flight time instead of the standard 1,500 requirements.

UVU’s Aviation Management program provides students with foundational knowledge and experiences required in the aviation industry. The program also features certifications, internships, and any additional training necessary for graduates’ chosen professional pathways.

Students in the Aviation Management program demonstrate proficiencies in managing private and public aviation establishments. They will be assessed through a comprehensive examination facilitated by the AVSC 4900 Strategic Aviation Management and through the Aviation Technical Analysis rubric.

The Aerospace Technology Management program prepares students for a variety of technical roles related to an aerospace product’s life cycle.

The program provides a completion degree for students with a license as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Cat B1) or those with the Maintenance Technician Certificate defined by FAR Part 65.

Take an inside look at UVU Aviation’s Intro Flight Program today!

Florida Institute of Technology

Flight Training Schools

Florida Institute of Technology has several aviation-related undergraduate and graduate programs offered through the College of Aeronautics. 

Undergraduate programs offered at FIT include:

FIT’s four out of 11 undergraduate programs are accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International. 

FIT also offers the following graduation options:

Apart from the university’s standard degree options, FIT offers Pathway programs for students to determine and jumpstart their careers in a major airline during their sophomore year.

The university has eight partner airlines in the development of Pathway programs, namely:

All aspiring pilots at FIT begin their flight training in the 1st semester at the Emil Buehler Center for Aviation Training and Research. They also gain experience and training in flight lines and simulator centers.

Check out Greg’s experience with the FIT Aviation program:

Aviation Institute of Maintenance

Flight Training Schools

Do you prefer a flight training school beyond the standard universities and colleges? Aviation Institute of Maintenance is an excellent option, with two academic programs to get associate credentials. 

AIM offers an Associate of Applied Science and Associate of Occupational Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology programs that can be completed in 29 months.

The 93-credit hour programs teach students how to work on:

These programs also prepare them to qualify for the FAA certification as Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics. 

AIM also has non-traditional programs allowing aspiring aviation professionals to earn academic credits and training in less time, namely:

The Aviation Maintenance Technical Engineer Program requires 100.5 credit hours for completion and can be completed within 27 months. The program focuses on fundamental theories of flight and advanced electronic systems on modern aircraft.

It prepares graduates to obtain the skills and knowledge to pass the FAA examinations and receive the mechanic certificate with A&P ratings.

AIM’s Aviation Maintenance Technician program can be completed in 21 months, requiring 78 credit hours for completion. Students gain specialized skills essential to working on flight and instrument control systems, aircraft structures, and digital systems.

They must complete:

Students with professional experience or training in aircraft maintenance or electronic repairs can pursue AIM’s Avionics Technician program. They can already complete the program in seven months, provided they obtain 22.5 credit hours.

Another program is the Aviation Maintenance Technician – Helicopter, in which students learn the essentials of rotary and fixed aircraft, gaining an in-depth understanding of how to repair and troubleshoot aircraft systems effectively. It provides training and credentials to pass the FAA test to receive the Airframe and Powerplant Technician Certificate.

The aviation maintenance industry is on the rise… Get started today. Watch this AIM video for more information!

Delaware State University

Flight Training Schools

Delaware State University’s College of Business has:

Both programs have received approval from the State of Delaware Education Department for Veterans Flight Training.

The university has a student-centered learning facility where students can gain advanced training in Aviation Management. Desu’s internship agreements with DuPont Aviation and Continental Airlines allow students to gain real-world experience and proficiencies within the aviation industry.

The university also has close ties with the local chapter of the Organization of Black Airline Pilots and Tuskegee Airmen, offering students the OBAP Solo Flight Academy and the Aviation Career Education Camp.

Students enrolled in the program will complete their FAA requirements for the Certified Flight Instructor ratings, Multi-Engine, Commercial License, Instrument rating, and Private Pilot License while completing a bachelor’s degree.

Graduates of the FAA-Approved Part 141 Aviation program can quickly jumpstart a Professional Pilot career in the aviation industry.

Throughout the Aviation program, students have the opportunity to gain practical experience via flight simulators, namely:

Steeped rich in history, Delaware State University may be the college for you. Take a look!

What is the Future of Aviation?

Mobility is at the center of every socioeconomic fabric. Modes of transportation (land, sea, or air) have long helped facilitate access to services and goods like jobs, health care, trade, or education.

Today, transportation is all about interconnectivity, speed, efficiency, and accessibility. With all these demands, this raises an issue of sustainability.

The United Nations estimates that by 2050, roughly two-thirds of the world’s population will reside in cities. So, how can we improve the current but already-stretched mobility system to respond to the ever-increasing demands?

For a start, the mobility sector came together with a shared vision: to better facilitate access to cities and countries and improve multi-layered efficacy in travel.

To date, the aviation industry has radically improved thanks to innovative solutions and state-of-the-art technologies. This equates to a higher demand for people to work in the field of aviation!

Here’s your chance to make your dreams come true!

What Fields of Aviation are the Most Promising?

Many people strive to achieve their dreams of belonging in the dynamic industry of aviation. Who doesn’t? With aviation, not only will you get a promising career, but this field also comes with several other benefits, such as job security and flexibility.

So, which field of aviation should you choose? Below are ten career options to consider.

Aerospace Engineers

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics defines aerospace engineers as the ones behind designing spacecraft, aircraft, missiles, or satellites. They also make and test prototypes to guarantee that they work according to their design.

These engineers are employed in several sectors like aerospace parts and product manufacturing, the federal government, engineering services, electromedical, and navigational industries.

Over the years, aerospace engineering has dramatically evolved since it commenced in the 19th century. Technological advancements were noted.

Today, professionals in this field are constantly working to create more environmentally friendly aircraft that hopefully produce minimal noise pollution and better fuel efficiency.

Air Traffic Controllers

These professionals are responsible for the aircraft’s movements to keep a safe distance between them. As with aerospace engineers, air traffic controllers can work in several locations, including approach control facilities, control towers, and route centers that have night, weekend, or rotating shifts.

Air traffic controllers are a different kind of breed, considering their very stressful field. But if you’re the type of person who loves the idea of working in a fast-paced, high-responsibility career, then being an air traffic controller can be uniquely satisfying to you.

Aircraft Maintenance Personnel

Also called avionics equipment technicians, aircraft maintenance personnel are trained to do a scheduled maintenance on an aircraft.

They handle critical responsibilities like diagnosing electrical and mechanical problems, as well as repairing or replacing defective brakes, wings, electrical systems, and other aircraft mechanisms.

Avionics technicians turn to their maintenance manuals at all times to conduct repair procedures, examine aircraft parts for possible defects, test gauges and aircraft parts, keep records, and inspect the completed work.

Aviation Management

This is a very famous field in the aviation industry. A lot of factors have significantly transformed the industry, including ecological requirements, fierce competition, and new technology. This is where aviation managers come into the picture.

These professionals are responsible for understanding the aviation field and navigating these transformations across everything from the manufacturing of an aircraft to controlling air traffic. With a critical responsibility like this, you need impeccable management and technical skills to be able to work correctly.

Aviation Safety

As the name implies, Aviation Safety refers to the measures undertaken to guarantee aircraft are safe and free from factors that may lead to injury or loss.

While jet airplanes have long been proven to be safe, air travel has become safer every year as more and more aviation safety professionals play a critical role in increasing aviation safety.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), careers in aviation safety are aviation safety technicians and aviation safety inspectors.

Cabin Crew

This is one of the most popular aviation fields to date. When you become a cabin crew, you get to fly all around the world! And the best part? This is all part of your job.

Your airline will arrange your hotel room and transportation for the destinations that you’re flying with work. FlightAttendantCareer.com asserts that “every trip feels like a mini-vacation.”

Cabin crews respond to emergencies and provide routine in-flight services to guarantee their airline passengers’ comfort and safety while on board.

Apart from these responsibilities, they are also given several duties and roles, like participating in pre-flight briefings with pilots, demonstrating proper use of emergency and safety equipment, conducting pre-flight checkups of emergency equipment, attending to the needs of the passengers, and a lot more.

Aside from getting paid to travel, cabin crews also enjoy flexible scheduling. You can also have the chance to see the world and interact with people from practically all over the globe.

Civil and Military Aviation

Civil aviation includes all non-military aviation, like commercial and private flying. This field has two major categories: general aviation, which consists of all commercial and private flights, and scheduled air transport, such as cargo and passenger flights, that operate on a scheduled basis.

One international labor organization acknowledges how important civil aviation is. Global supply chains cannot function without air travel, or international tourism will not exist. Around 40% of today’s high-tech sales strongly rely on good quality air transport.

Add in the fact that perishable commodities like cut flowers or fresh food have no alternative mode of transportation other than air travel. 

Military aviation, on the other hand, involves using various military aircraft as well as other flying machines that primarily conduct aerial warfare.

Pilot Training

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, commercial and airline pilots navigate and fly helicopters, airplanes, and other aircraft. Pilots enjoy several benefits like travel or flexible working hours. Aspiring pilots can also consider another career path: becoming helicopter pilots.

These pilots can work for the government or, better yet, have commercial employers in executive transport, sightseeing, offshore support, pipeline and utility support, crop dusting, test pilot flying, or emergency medical services.

Thus, if you are bent on becoming a pilot but an airline pilot doesn’t seem appealing to you, a good career choice is a commercial helicopter pilot.

Aviation Transport

This is also called aviation logistics, which plays a critical role in the global economy. The World Bank asserted that air transport is a crucial enabler in a nation’s economic development and growth.

Air transport expedites integration in the global economy and further provides connectivity not only on a national, regional, or international scale. This mode of transport helps generate trade, create employment opportunities, and promote tourism.

Over the years, the aviation industry’s employment opportunities and job growth have multiplied. The BLS reports that the average salary of commercial and airline pilots is $148,900, with a projected 4% job growth by 2032. This is why more and more people aspire to be a part of the aviation profession.

Depending on the field of study you wish to learn, several quality programs, both online and traditional, provide the necessary foundational and technical skills you must learn to become an aviation professional.

flight schools fact 2

Aviation Job Growth, Prospects, and Outlook

Air traffic will continually increase. It means job prospects and opportunities for commercial and private airline pilots, aircraft manufacturers, and airport workers are bright.

Because newer aircraft are expected to require less maintenance than older models, job opportunities for certain aviation mechanics and avionics professionals may be limited.

As new technologies emerge in the aviation industry, there will be greater demand for aviation mechanics and technicians specializing in a specific type of aircraft, such as military aircraft, agricultural aircraft, or a particular aircraft brand.

Recent technological advances, such as advanced GPS systems, aerial imaging devices, aerial applicators, and helicopter technology, necessitate the use of specialized maintenance services performed by a trained and skilled technician.

Those who work for government agencies or private aerospace or aviation manufacturing plants may earn a higher salary throughout their careers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for airline pilots is expected to remain stable through 2032. Those with more experience and flight hours can enjoy job advancement and better benefits throughout their careers.

An improving economy in the country, the expansion of international carriers, and a pilot shortage all contribute to a higher demand for trained pilots.

Why is a Career in Aviation a Good Move?

Deciding to enter the world of aviation is a huge decision. However, there are several reasons why fulfilling this dream is something you should push to take your career to new heights.

Flight Training Schools

Like many aspiring people who wish to become a part of the aviation industry, several institutions can make it all happen for you. Aviation schools offer certificates, associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree programs.

Additional Resources: