How to Find Funding for Flight Training
Turn Your Aviation Dreams Into Reality — Even If You’re on a Budget
Flight training can be one of the most rewarding — and expensive — career paths you’ll ever pursue. With total costs ranging from $80,000 to over $100,000 for professional pilot training, many aspiring aviators wonder: How can I afford this?
The good news is, there are several realistic ways to fund your flight training — including scholarships, federal financial aid, private loans, and creative financing strategies. In this article, we’ll break down the most effective ways to secure funding so you can stay focused on what matters most: becoming a pilot.
1. Apply for Scholarships (Yes, They’re Out There!)
Hundreds of aviation organizations offer flight training scholarships — many of which go unclaimed due to lack of awareness. Here are a few places to start:
- AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association) – Offers scholarships up to $20,000 for student pilots and CFIs.
- EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) – Awards flight training scholarships through their "Ray Aviation Scholarship" and others.
- Women in Aviation International (WAI) – Offers dozens of scholarships, including for men in some cases.
- National Gay Pilots Association, OBAP, and Latino Pilots Association – These identity-based organizations provide generous support to aspiring pilots.
Tip: Apply to as many as possible — even smaller awards can help cover medical exams, ground school, or checkrides.
2. Use Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for Part 141 Programs
If you attend a flight school that partners with a college or university, you may qualify for federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Programs eligible for FAFSA typically offer:
- Pell Grants (need-based, no repayment)
- Federal Student Loans (subsidized/unsubsidized)
- Work-study options
You must enroll in an accredited Part 141 flight program that offers a degree (like an Associate’s or Bachelor’s in Aviation) to qualify.
3. Explore Private Student Loans and Financing
If you don’t qualify for federal aid — or need more funding — many private lenders offer aviation-specific student loans. Top providers include:
- Sallie Mae Career Training Loans
- AOPA Flight Training Finance
- Meritize
- Stratus Financial
Some lenders offer deferred payment options until you complete training and start working as a pilot.
4. GI Bill® & Veteran Benefits
If you're a military veteran, you may be eligible to use GI Bill® benefits to cover flight training at approved schools. Veterans should look for VA-approved Part 141 programs.
5. Train Smarter: Save While You Learn
Funding flight training isn't just about loans and scholarships — it’s also about smart strategy. You can cut thousands in training costs by:
- Training consistently (2–3x/week) to retain skills faster
- Completing ground school online before your first flight
- Using a simulator for some maneuvers
- Avoiding last-minute cancellations (instructors often charge fees)
Summary: You Don’t Need to Be Rich to Become a Pilot
Thousands of pilots have made it to the airlines without rich parents or deep savings. The key is planning, persistence, and using every funding source available. Whether you're starting with zero experience or transitioning careers, funding is out there — and it’s worth pursuing.
If you’re ready to take the next step, check out our Free Mini-Course on how to fast-track your pilot career with zero experience — and get 5 myth-busting lessons delivered to your inbox!
