Best Pilot Schools | Top 4 Choices
Pursuing a career in aviation is an exciting journey, but the first step towards achieving this is choosing the right pilot school.
With many options available, picking the most suitable one can be daunting.
This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through the selection process and highlight the best pilot schools worldwide.
The Importance of an Aviation Degree
An aviation degree equips you with specialized skills, opens doors to higher salary potentials, and offers networking opportunities. Plus, you get to earn necessary licenses and certifications needed to become a professional pilot.
Need for Professional Advancement
An aviation degree is the most reliable route to a job in aviation. It provides you with the technical skills and expertise required to become a professional pilot.
Acquiring Specialized Skills
An aviation curriculum is designed to provide you with a broad base of knowledge in the aviation industry. It enables you to understand aviation as part of a transportation system and comprehend related technical fields.
Higher Salary Potential
A bachelor’s degree in aviation provides you with advanced abilities that allow you to pursue a wider range of jobs with better pay prospects.
Networking Opportunities
Many aviation programs collaborate with major airlines and other businesses in the industry. This provides students with a larger professional network and more job chances upon graduation.
Licensure & Certification
Aviation programs train students for various licenses and certifications needed for pilot careers. Advanced certification might also help you secure a better job.
Eligibility Criteria for Enrolling in an Aviation Course
The basic requirements for aviation courses vary depending on the type you intend to study. After class 10, students with a strong background in physics, math, and chemistry can pursue certificate programs in aviation.
Similarly, some undergraduate programs and diploma courses require PCM in class 12 with a minimum aggregate score of 55%.
Choosing the Right Pilot School
While choosing a pilot school, consider factors like location, quality of training, cost, type of training, type of certificate, and job placements. Each student has a vision of what that school should be like.
For some, that means a large university with Division I football games to attend on the weekends, but for others, the right track is an accelerated program leading to a career in as little as 12 months.
Top Five Best Pilot Schools
After thorough research, we’ve determined the top five best pilot schools to consider when choosing where to pursue a professional career as a pilot.
1. ATP Flight School
ATP Flight School, founded by airline pilots more than 35 years ago, is the largest flight training establishment in the U.S. With a nationwide network of 71 training centers located in 31 states, ATP offers an efficient scheduling system. The Airline Career Pilot Program, one of the fastest ways to become a professional pilot, can be completed in just seven months.
2. Aeroguard Flight Training
Aeroguard Flight Training, located in Arizona, Florida, and Texas, offers an accelerated flight training program with connections to multiple airlines. The school also offers the option to pursue a bachelor’s degree in aviation, thanks to its affiliate partnership with Liberty University.
3. Spartan College
Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology offers several Associate of Applied Science aviation-focused degree programs across its four campuses. With a history dating back to the 1920s, Spartan College has trained over 100,000 pilots.
4. Blue Line Aviation
Blue Line Aviation in Smithfield, North Carolina, offers an immersive training program that provides students with hands-on experience from day one. Its short, accelerated training schedule gives life to a new career in months instead of years.
5. Pan AM International Flying Academy
Pan AM International Flight Academy has been training pilots for 85 years. Offering courses for the ATPL, CPL, and MPL training paths, Pan AM has become one of the leading flight training centers in the nation.
Understanding Different Types of Aviation Courses
There is a wide range of aviation courses that can be pursued. Some of the general aviation courses are broken into several separate modules. Below are 15 different types of aviation courses:
- Aviation Course – Fundamentals
- Airline Management Aviation Course
- Aircraft Operations (Flight)
- Aeronautical Sciences
- Airport Planning, Operations and Management Courses
- Aviation Course – Safety
- Aviation Maintenance Management Course
- Aviation Course – Meteorology
- Pricing and Ticketing Courses
- Aviation Course – Sales & Marketing
- Air Navigation Courses
- Air Traffic Control Programme
- Aviation Course – Private Plane Flying
- Airline Operations Courses
- Aviation Course – Ground Operations
Take your time when looking into schools. Consider each of the options. Even visiting the school is a small price to pay when making a large investment. It could help determine which school is not for you.
Overall, each of the schools listed here are great options and can help propel your pilot career forward faster than a traditional part 61 school.
Happy flying!
Read more about how much it costs to become a pilot here!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions you may encounter when choosing the best pilot schools.
1. How long does it typically take to become a pilot?
The length of time it takes to become a pilot depends on the type of training and the specific student. Some colleges have expedited programs that can be completed in as little as 12 months, while others may take several years to complete.
2. How much does pilot training cost?
Pilot training costs vary based on the school and the type of instruction. Some colleges charge as low as $50,000, while others require well over $200,000. It’s crucial to examine the costs of various schools and living expenses when making a decision.
3. Is it possible to get a scholarship for a pilot school?
Yes, it is possible to obtain a scholarship for a pilot school. Many institutions provide scholarships to assist in pilot training. Some scholarships are provided based on financial need, while others are offered based on academic or other achievements.
Choosing the best pilot school is a significant step towards a successful career in aviation. With the right information and guidance, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals and aspirations.
