Career & Private Pilot Training

Become a
Commercial
Airline Pilot.

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Academy of Aviation
Enroll Today

Become
a Pilot.

Academy of Aviation's graduates are flying with most Major Airlines worldwide. To receive more information about enrollment, reach us by calling, chatting, texting, or by filling out the form.

Financing information.

Learn about tuition, payment options, and third-party financing resources available to prospective students.

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FAA Part 141 Flight Training
Across the Country

Academy of Aviation operates career pilot training campuses across New York, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina — and through our SunState brand in California and Florida. Every campus runs the same FAA Part 141 curriculum, the same airline partnership programs, and the same glass cockpit fleet. Find your campus below.

Airline Hiring
Partnerships.

Delta Propel Logo

The Delta Propel program offers Academy of Aviation students who become flight instructors a clear route to flow directly to Delta Air Lines after serving with Endeavor Air. This is a flow program — not just an interview pathway. Students who complete the requirements receive a conditional offer to Endeavor Air before finishing their CFI hours.

Republic Airways Logo

The Republic Airways RJet Cadet Program empowers Academy of Aviation pilots to launch and advance their careers with Delta Air Lines, United Airlines®, and American Airlines. Cadets who meet the program requirements receive mentorship, priority hiring status, and a direct path to the right seat of a regional jet.

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Financing
Information.

Sallie Mae Logo

Financing information is available through independent third-party lenders, including Sallie Mae®, for eligible Career Pilot programs. Academy of Aviation does not provide loans or make lending decisions.

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Veterans Benefits
and GI Bill®.

Maximize your VA benefits for vocational flight training at our campuses in Farmingdale, NY; White Plains, NY; Kissimmee, FL. GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill

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What Our Students Say

Hannah Google
5 stars

I genuinely could not be happier with my experience here!

Andruw Google
5 stars

Academy of Aviation has treated me very well, with lots of opportunities and professionalism.

Sam Google
5 stars

AOA has been absolutely amazing to me, everyone is very friendly and the structured program is very good for brand new pilots.

Melanie Google
5 stars

I absolutely love everything about AOA White Plains! When you're here you'll feel like family and be welcomed by all.

Becker Google
5 stars

Free ground schools, free access to a simulator and an outstanding group of instructors really sets this school apart from the rest I have seen. This school is about creating pilots.

Common Flight
Training Questions.

How do I qualify to pilot a commercial airliner?

To qualify for an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which is mandatory for flying commercial airliners in the U.S., pilots must:

  • Accumulate 1,500 hours of flight time.
  • Be at least 23 years old.
  • Hold a commercial pilot license and instrument rating.
  • Complete an ATP training program and pass all required tests.
What is the Delta Propel Program?

At the Academy of Aviation, we are proud to be one of only four flight schools in the United States partnered with Delta Air Lines through their Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Career Path under the Delta Propel Program. This exclusive partnership offers qualified students a clear and accelerated pathway to a career with Delta Air Lines.

What are the minimum requirements to begin my pilot training?

Age: Must be at least 16 years old to solo and 17 years old to obtain a Private Pilot License.

Language: Must be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.

Medical Certificate: Must obtain at least a Third-Class FAA Medical Certificate from an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

U.S. citizens must provide valid proof of citizenship (e.g., passport or birth certificate). Non-U.S. citizens must complete TSA security clearance (AFSP approval) before beginning flight training.

Could you outline my full training journey, course by course?

Earn your PPL, IR, CPL, and CFI/CFII/MEI, then build your flight hours to 1,500 to step into your aviation career.

The following is each stage of our Career Program:

  • Private Pilot License (PPL)
  • Instrument Rating (IR)
  • Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
  • Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), CFII, MEI
Will I need to be on campus every day, and how will my schedule be set up?

As part of enrollment, you'll complete an availability form so we can create the most effective schedule for you. Full-time students typically have at least five training sessions per week, while part-time students average three to four sessions. No matter your pace, staying consistent is the key to reaching your goals.

What are my options for financing?

Financing information is available through independent third-party lenders, including Sallie Mae®. Students may choose to use lender financing, pay partially out of pocket, or cover training costs without financing.

Monthly payment options may also be available depending on the program. Academy of Aviation does not provide loans or make credit decisions; all loan terms, approvals, and requirements are determined solely by the lender.

What happens in ground school, and is it free?

Ground school is a comprehensive learning environment that combines classroom-based instruction, one-on-one sessions with an instructor, and online self-study. It provides students with a strong foundation in core aviation theory. We offer free daily group ground school every day from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. (Schedule may vary based on student rating.) Attendance is optional but strongly encouraged.

Will I get personalized flight instruction?

Our flight training is one-on-one with your own instructor. This means you get personal attention and lessons designed just for you. You'll learn at your own pace with support every step of the way, helping you build confidence and skills safely.

Which aircraft will I be flying during my training?

Our fleet includes the Cessna 172 G1000 (glass cockpit) for single-engine training, and the Diamond DA42 for multi-engine training. Both aircraft are equipped with modern avionics and maintained to the highest safety standards.

Refer a
Friend.

Refer a friend and Earn $1,000 in Flight Training Credit

At Academy of Aviation, we believe flying is better with friends. That is why we are rewarding you for helping others achieve their aviation dreams. Here is how it works:

  • • Refer a new student to Academy of Aviation
  • • When your referral enrolls in our PPL to CPL program, you will receive a $1,000 flight training credit.
  • • Your credit will be added 60 days after your referral starts school, and their payment is confirmed.
  • • There is no limit. Refer as many friends as you like and keep earning credits toward your flight hours.
  • • Start spreading the word and watch your flight hours take off.