While there’s still a shortage of pilots around the world, pilots-in-training are looking for the means to obtain their licenses by way of strategic aviation funding.
With amount of students in flight schools around the world skyrocketing and dreams of becoming a pilot are becoming a reality, the price tag on joining the elite pilots of the world can be somewhat expensive.
There’s good news though for you aspiring pilots – help is on the way. Even with a heavy course load that includes instructor fees, obtaining flight hours and taking exams, you can get your pilot training without drowning in debt.
At Fly Legacy Aviation, we want to make sure you get your pilots license without all the headache. Here’s how:
Training Costs: It Costs to Fly!
Because there’s such a demand and pilot careers can be your golden ticket, getting your wings doesn’t come cheap for most. With most schools charging in the neighborhood of $70,000 – $100,000 for the course, it can absolutely be a deterrent for aspiring students.
However, people are flying every day and finding ways to get their licenses without breaking the bank.
At Fly Legacy, we ensure every student that if they have a will to fly, we will find a way. Meaning, we want to ensure every aspiring pilot has a chance to fly with flexible payment options that suite their needs.
Aviation Funding and Payment Plans with Flight Schools
Fly Legacy aviation is a strong proponent to finding ways for our students to fulfill their dreams of becoming pilots. We offer easy, flexible and affordable methods to land your dream job. We partner up with financial firms like Stratus to help ease you into an affordable plan while you pursue your pilots license. Ask us how!
Train now, Work Later
Some carriers will help bankroll your training in return for becoming a pilot with their commercial airline. Regional carriers can help cover up to a certain amount in exchange for a commitment to their organization. A win-win!
Work-Study side by side hustle
Sometimes all it takes is a little hustle. Many students will take on side gigs as airport crew, as pilot instructors or freelance in other fields to help fund their pilot licenses. Like many things life, it’s often the ones who work harder who go on to achieve great things!
Tips on Winning a Scholarship
There are ways to help you stand out from the crowd when it comes to obtaining scholarships through the means mentioned above.
- Niche down: as mentioned, try and put yourself in a certain position that would offer less competition. Perhaps you have a disability or are left-handed – these can sometimes materialize into sub-niches and can launch you to the top of these categories.
- Show, Don’t Tell: Show them what you’re made of! Instead of telling your potential flight school how good you are. Show them! Perhaps you know how to build a cessna engine and can offer a step-by-step tutorial on how to get that done! Make it known why you are the difference maker!
- Network, network, network: Like so many things in life, it’s not how much you know – it’s who you know. Get out there and align yourself with professionals in the trade, join social media groups and build a good book of contacts to help spear you in the right direction.
The Bottom Line
Yes, pilot training can be expensive. But here’s the secret: nobody pays full price. The sky’s literally filled with people who cobbled together scholarships, side gigs, and smart loans. Start early, apply relentlessly, and remember – every pilot you’ve ever admired started exactly where you are now: staring at a big number and figuring out how to hack it.
Your cockpit seat is waiting. Time to go claim it.
10 Most Searched FAQs About Aviation Funding (With Answers)
- How can I get pilot training without drowning in debt?
Fly Legacy emphasizes that with proper financing options, like specialized aviation loans, you can pursue pilot training without excessive debt. - Is financing available for flight training?
Yes. Fly Legacy partners with Stratus Financial to offer financing covering training, flight tests, check-rides, and accommodation. - What financing plans does Stratus Financial offer?
They provide various options including: a 1-year deferred payment plan, interest-only periods, long-term (9 to 15 years) principal-and-interest payments, and fixed-rate loans – depending on state regulations. - How much does a Private Pilot License (PPL) cost?
Fly Legacy lists the full PPL course at roughly $18,000, plus books and exam fees. Paying as you go equates to about $400 per 3-hour lesson. - What is the cost for a Multi-Engine Rating?
Around $5,000 total – if paid per lesson, expect about $650 for a 3-hour session. - Does Fly Legacy accept international students?
Yes. They’re authorized to issue I-20 forms for M-1 visas, enabling international applicants to train in the U.S. - How long does it take to earn a Commercial Pilot License (CPL)?
Generally between one to two years, depending on your availability and flight frequency. - Can I earn while training through Fly Legacy’s programs?
Yes. Their Airline Cadet Program allows students to work as flight instructors, build required hours, and receive partial tuition reimbursement. - Are flight schools outside Fly Legacy offering federal financial aid?
Yes. Accredited Part 141 schools can accept federal aid like FAFSA, Pell Grants, and federal student loans; options include hybrid programs via community colleges. (Flight School USA, Fly Pure Flight, FLYING Magazine) - What other funding sources exist beyond loans?
Beyond loans, aspiring pilots can explore scholarships, grants, employer or airline cadet programs, payment plans, and even using a 401(k) in some cases. (Flight School USA, Leopard Aviation, American Flyers)
