Enroll in a 4-year college aviation program that includes flight training. Normally the VA doesn't cover the cost of your first step in flight training, a Private Pilot License (PPL). But a 4-year collegiate program can offer PPL to you for free by consuming your entire GI Bill in exchange for 12 months of flight training spread out over four years. You'll receive a tax-free Military Housing Allowance (MHA) from the VA during the school year, but not during your summer breaks. Your GI Bill will not have an annual cap on how much flight training it will cover.
Do not choose Flex Air for this option.
Instead, we recommend you build work experience in a non-aviation job field that will earn supplementary income while you're in college.
Enroll in a 2-year associate or non-degree vocational school program, such as San Diego Miramar College, this will be covered by your GI Bill and will activate your housing allowance. Your first step towards becoming an airline pilot will be to a Private Pilot License (PPL). The GI Bill will not cover the private pilot certificate under this scenario. However, if you use both your GI Bill and VR&E benefits, you'll receive a tax-free Military Housing Allowance (MHA) from the VA. Plus you will earn additional income as a flight instructor in your second year of training. Your GI Bill will only cover the first $15,497.15 of costs per academic year in 2024, but smart use of your VR&E benefit will cover the rest.
SkillBridge is the best first step, if you are eligible. You will need to pay $15,000 - $20,000 for your Private Pilot License (PPL), but all other training can be funded by your VA benefits. At Flex Air, we offer a free scholarships guide, an interest-free payment plan, or a Pilot Pathway Loan that defers all payments until you land your first job as a pilot. If you can afford any out-of-pocket costs, we recommend this route.
The GI Bill, managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), offers education benefits for veterans, service members, and their families. These benefits can be used for various educational programs, including flight training. By leveraging the GI Bill, eligible individuals can significantly reduce the cost of training and move closer to their aviation aspirations.
Yes, the VA does provide funding for flight training under specific circumstances. This includes the Post-9/11 GI Bill® which covers both vocational flight training and degree programs that consist of flight training. However, the type of training and the amount covered will depend on factors like the program and type of school attended.
When considering flight training, it's essential to ensure your chosen flight school is approved by the VA. There are two primary types of flight schools: FAA Part 141 certified school and stand-alone Part 141 pilot school. Depending on the school, the GI Bill can cover flight training at a public or private institution, although the benefits might differ.
The Montgomery GI Bill is another VA education benefit program, distinct from the Post-9/11 GI Bill. While both can be used for flight training, the Montgomery GI Bill might have different requirements and benefits. Veterans should weigh both options to determine the best fit for their flight training or a bachelor’s degree aspirations.
Absolutely! With the GI Bill, veterans can pursue the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. This is an essential step for those looking to become airline pilots. Funding for ATP flight training is available, but there are specific requirements and limits on what the GI Bill will cover.
Attending a vocational flight school is an option under the GI Bill. These are typically non-college degree programs that offer specific flight training. As long as the vocational flight school is VA-approved, the GI Bill can be used. However, benefits might vary compared to degree-granting institutions.
The amount the GI Bill will cover depends on factors like the type of benefit used, the training program, and the institution. In some cases, the GI Bill can pay for the complete training, while in others, it might cover a portion. It's crucial to understand the net cost of training after GI Bill benefits are applied.
Yes, there is a limit to the GI Bill benefits for flight training. Each benefit type has its own cap, often described as "per academic year" limits. It's essential to know these limits before starting flight training to avoid unexpected expenses.
Before using the GI Bill for flight training, there are several requirements to meet. This includes determining eligibility for GI Bill benefits, choosing an approved flight program, and meeting any other prerequisites set by the VA or the flight school.
For those aspiring to become airline pilots, the GI Bill is an invaluable resource. Not only can it help cover the cost of tuition, but it can also pave the way for advanced certifications and ratings. When paired with dedication and hard work, the GI Bill can make the path to becoming an airline pilot more accessible and affordable.
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