So, how are you going to pay for flight school?
Let’s be real: becoming a pilot is one of the most rewarding career moves you can make—but it’s not cheap. A Private Pilot License (PPL) can run you $10,000 to $15,000. A full pathway to a commercial airline career? You’re looking at $80,000 to $100,000.
Before you let those numbers ground your dream, know this: there are several smart, realistic ways to pay for flight training without drowning in debt. Here’s how aspiring pilots are funding their aviation education today.
1. Flight Training Scholarships (Free Money!)
This should be your first stop. Scholarships are often overlooked, but there’s a surprising amount of free money available for students of all levels. From national organizations to local flying clubs, aviation scholarships can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Start with our curated Aviation Scholarship List—updated regularly with new opportunities.
Pro Tip: Apply early and often. Many scholarships go unclaimed simply because people don’t apply.
2. Federal Pell Grants (If You’re Attending an Aviation College)
If you’re planning to get a degree in aviation, the Federal Pell Grant could put real dollars toward your training.
For the 2025–2026 award year (running from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026), the maximum Federal Pell Grant is $7,395. The minimum award is $740, which is 10% of the maximum and rounded to the nearest $5.
How to qualify:
Enroll in an accredited aviation college or university
Submit your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
This can also unlock other forms of aid, like subsidized student loans.
3. AOPA Flight Training Loans
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) offers financing designed specifically for aspiring pilots. You can borrow up to $100,000 to cover your entire training journey—from PPL to ATP.
Monthly payments can be as low as $150–$300
Flexible terms up to 7 years
Why it works: Unlike general student loans, AOPA loans are tailored for aviation. It’s a one-stop solution if you’re training at an approved school.
4. Sallie Mae Career Training Loans
For students at non-degree or technical flight schools, Sallie Mae’s Career Training Smart Option Loan is a strong alternative.
Interest rates from 5.75% to 13.45% APR
Designed for career-focused programs like flight training
No degree required
You can borrow what you need, when you need it—which keeps things flexible as your training progresses.
5. Cash Payments (If You’ve Got It)
Paying cash means no interest, no loan payments, and total control over your training timeline. If you’ve been saving for this goal, great job!
Just a heads-up: Keep a buffer in your budget for extra flight hours, weather delays, or checkride retakes. Training rarely goes exactly as planned.
6. Low-Interest Credit Cards (Use With Caution)
If used wisely, a credit card with a 0% introductory APR can help you cover short-term expenses like ground school or discovery flights. But this option is best for disciplined spenders.
Avoid: Racking up high balances without a solid repayment plan. Flight training is not something you want to finance at 20% APR.
Bonus Tip: Ask Your Flight School About Financing
Many flight schools offer in-house financing or partner with aviation lenders. Some even provide discounts when you pay for flight time in blocks.
Before choosing a loan or card, ask the school directly what financing options they support.
Ready to Soar?
Financing flight training might seem like a big hurdle, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Explore your options, ask questions, and build a funding plan that works for your goals.
Looking for a flight school that fits your budget?
