what does the va pay for in a commercial pilot license course

by Vernie Bergstrom 4 min read

VA benefits are available for those interested in becoming a commercial pilot, and CTI Professional Flight Training is approved for reimbursement under the GI Bill ® at both locations. For those covered under the Post 9-11 GI Bill®, the VA will reimburse a maximum of $12,554 in flight training costs per academic year (August to July).

A degree program that consists of flight training at a public college or university, we'll pay for up to the full in-state cost of tuition and fees (depending on your level of eligibility and remaining entitlement). You may also receive a monthly housing allowance and money to help buy books and supplies.Jan 12, 2022

Full Answer

Does the VA pay for private pilot's license training?

However, Chapter 33 VA Benefits do cover the cost of your Private Pilot's license training. These variances in the VA benefits often come as surprise to veterans who have been led to believe that GI Bill educational benefits cover all the costs of flight training... this is not true!

How much does it cost to become a commercial pilot?

This specifically means the flight training, costing around $130,000, must be necessary for the degree completions approved by the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. However, Voc Rehab has and does approve commercial flight training.

How much do you pay for flight school with VA benefits?

This depends on the VA benefit program you use and other factors. We’ll pay you back for 60% of the approved fees your flight school charges. Your level of eligibility (you’re eligible for a certain percent of benefits up to 100% based on how long you served on active duty after September 10, 2001), and

What is the VA pilot test program?

Currently, this is a test program to determine the interest in a training program for veterans to become pilots. As such, there are only four schools nationwide participating: How Do I Enroll In The Program?

Does Post-9/11 GI Bill pay for flight training?

If you've applied for and received Post-9/11 GI Bill education benefits, you can use the awarded funds for a flight training program to help you achieve your flying goals.

Will the military pay for your pilot's license?

Yes, the GI Bill can be used towards attending a Part 141 accredited flight training program to get your commercial pilot license (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, and will pay for flights, tuition, books, fees, and supplies.

Will the GI Bill pay for a private pilot's license?

Yes, you can use the GI Bill to get your pilot's license.

How do people afford commercial pilot training?

Ways to Pay for Flight TrainingSave Up Money. While this route may mean you need to hold off on training for a while it will mean you finish without any debt. ... Loans and Financing Options. ... Scholarships. ... Federal Grant. ... Military Assistance. ... GI Bill. ... Work at a Flight School. ... Train Often and Study Daily.More items...•

Will the VA pay for flight training?

A degree program that consists of flight training at a public college or university, we'll pay for up to the full in-state cost of tuition and fees (depending on your level of eligibility and remaining entitlement). You may also receive a monthly housing allowance and money to help buy books and supplies.

Can I be a pilot with VA disability?

In many cases, bringing in the VA Disability Awards Letter and a current status report from the treating physician to the pilot's AME is adequate. Of course, the pilot should check “YES” to question 18. y. on the medical application with an explanation.

How much does pilot school cost?

Pilot CertificateCostDurationPrivate Pilot Certificate Included in Airline Career Pilot Program$19,0002 MonthsCommercial Pilot Certificate Single- and Multi-Engine with Instrument Rating and CFIs$71,9955 MonthsAirline Transport Pilot Certificate$5,9955 Days

How do I use my GI Bill as a pilot?

Once you establish your general GI Bill eligibility, you will need to obtain or show proof of your private pilot's license and according to the VA official site, “Have a second-class medical certificate valid for second-class privileges—or a first-class medical certificate if you want to pursue the Airline Transport ...

What is a pilot's salary?

Salaries for more experienced pilots can range from £36,000 to £48,000 in a first officer role. The starting salary for a captain with a medium-sized airline may range from £54,000 to £75,000. Those employed by major operators can earn £97,000 to more than £140,000.

How can I become a pilot free of cost?

Free training of Pilot at NDAScholarship by Saraswati Aviation Academy. ... Scholarship by Air India. ... Scholarship by Indian Airlines. ... Scholarship by Rajiv Gandhi Foundation. ... Scholarship by JRD Tata Memorial. ... Scholarship by Government Aviation Training Institute (GATI) ... Scholarship to reserved category candidates SC or ST.

How do I become a commercial pilot with no money?

How to pay the pilot training when you don't have any money?Option 1: Get a loan. Look for the best possible flight school that has a good reputation and solid connections with a bank. ... Option 2: Make your own money. ... Option 3: Move. ... Option 4: Sponsorship. ... Your Pilot Academy.

Do you get paid during pilot training?

In addition to the pilot's hourly wage, he or she often receives a pay stipend during the training period, as well as a per diem rate when away from home. This allowance covers meals and other incidentals the pilots may accrue. And airlines typically pay for lodging when a pilot has to stay away from home overnight.

Type of Assistance

Flight training is available for the following and other types of qualifications:

Available Benefits and Eligibility

Participation requirements are the same for all GI Bill programs, but the payment amount varies depending on the GI Bill program and flight school.

Other Factors to Consider

This type of assistance is not available under the Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance program.

What is the Forces to Flyers program?

The Forces to Flyers program is a three-year research initiative led by the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) and its Volpe National Transportation Systems Center. This program is designed to help ease the critical shortage of commercial pilots.

What is a first class medical certificate?

A first-class medical certificate, A student pilot certificate, and. A letter of reference from a previous or current commanding officer, teacher/instructor/professor, or supervisor/manager.

Can I use GI Bill for commercial flight?

If you want to use the GI Bill to get commercial flight certification you must already have a private pilot's license. You aren't eligible to participate in this program if you already have your private pilot’s license. However, you can enter the program and get your private pilot's license then use your GI Bill for the remainder of the program.

What training is eligible for VA reimbursement?

Training eligible for VA reimbursement includes: Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot License Single-Engine, Commercial Pilot License Multi-Engine, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), CFI Instrument, and Multi-Engine Instructor. To be eligible for VA reimbursement, you must have a current Private Pilot's License and a Second-Class Medical Certificate ...

What is the GI bill?

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 website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. Rotor Transition Program.

Is CTI approved for GI Bill?

VA benefits are available for those interested in becoming a commercial pilot, and CTI Professional Flight Training is approved for reimbursement under the GI Bill ®. at both locations.

Why do aviation schools disclose personal information?

Aviation Schools Online may disclose your Personal Data in the good faith belief that such action is necessary to: To comply with a legal obligation. To protect and defend the rights or property of Aviation Schools Online . To prevent or investigate possible wrongdoing in connection with the Service.

Where is the helicopter flight school?

A Helicopter Flight School on The Big Island, Kona BaseAs a Helicopter Flight School based in Hawaii, we are proud to be the top helicopter flight training schools in the USA....

Can you get reimbursement for flight school?

If you've served on active duty in the US Military, you may be eligible for reimbursement of some or all of your flight training costs under the GI Bill. While you may still have to pay some costs out of pocket, the GI Bill for flight school is a great way to help pay for your training. The only catch is, with the addition ...

Does Chapter 30 cover private pilot training?

First of all, your Chapter 30 GI Bill benefits do not cover any expenses at any flight training school for your private pilot license (the initial step toward a helicopter pilot career). However, Chapter 33 VA Benefits do cover the cost of your Private Pilot's license training. These variances in the VA benefits often come as surprise ...

How much is Gleim Aviation discount?

Gleim Aviation offers a 20% military discount on deluxe pilot kits for sport, private, instrument, and commercial, and the CFI and ATP training kits. To receive your discount, contact an Aviation Training Consultant at 800-874-5346 ext. 471.

What type of assistance is available for veterans?

Types of assistance that pertain to participation requirements of all GI Bills include the Montgomery GI Bill, Reserve Educational Assistance Program, and the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Do you need a pilot license to fly for veterans?

You must have a private pilot license and valid medical certification before you start training.”.

What is a GI Bill 141 pilot school?

A Part 141 pilot school is one of two types of pilot schools students can choose to attend. Your other choice would be a Part 61 flight school.

How much does the GI bill pay for private schools?

As noted above, the Post-9/11 GI Bill has a cap on how much it will pay for private schools. The amount fluctuates yearly, but students can rarely afford those schools without extra help. For example, the current amount is capped at $23,671.94. However, it will increase to $24,476.79 on August 1, 2019.

Do vets need a CPL?

However, a pilot needs a CPL (Commercial Pilot’s License) to receive any compensation for their flying, but having a PPL is a prerequisite for getting one. Requiring vets to pay for their own PPL all but ensures that they’ll never get their CPL.

Is aviation a cheap hobby?

As you’re no doubt aware, aviation isn’t a cheap hobby or career choice. You’ll have to pony up the cash on the front end to reach your goal of flight. Using the GI Bill to earn your PPL (Private Pilot’s License) is a new legislative development. Until recently, aspiring pilots were unable to do so.

Does the GI bill pay for PPL?

As far as we can tell, the GI Bill doesn’t actually pay for the PPL. Instead, the VA will reimburse you for any out-of-pocket costs once you move on to your professional / commercial certifications.

Can I use the GI Bill to get a pilot's license?

This can lead to questions about how to navigate the VA, what type of flight school you should choose, and if there are any other options besides using up your entitlements. Yes, you can use the GI Bill to get your pilot’s license.

Can you get your PPL with the GI bill?

It’s also the bill that allows student pilots to get their PPL using the GI Bill. The bill does not solely go after flight training for veterans. It’s part of a broader movement to help veterans reintegrate into civilian life once leaving the military.

How much does it cost to go to flight school for disabled veterans?

This specifically means the flight training, costing around $130,000, must be necessary for the degree completions approved by the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.

What is the VA's use of 21.4263?

See §21.4263 for approval of flight courses for VA training.

What is 21.134 in the aviation code?

In addition, 38 CFR Part 21.134 specifically talks about flight school: § 21.134 Limitation on flight training. Flight Training approved under Chapter 31 may only be authorized in degree curriculums in the field of aviation that include required flight training.

Does Voc Rehab approve training?

So, to Tom’s new questions, Voc Rehab will not approve training that is not part of a degree-seeking program. While the aviation hours can be contracted for by a private company for completion, the hours must be required by your Voc Rehab training plan and the degree program you are seeking.

What does 141 mean in the GI Bill?

In short, guys and gals, no part 141 certification means no use of your post 9/11 GI Bill® Benefits. It’s that simple. And not every flight school that is FAA part 141 certified has approval from the VA. For background purposes, let’s briefly identify what FAA part 141 certification means.

What is a copilot position?

A copilot position in a larger, international airplane is so much more desirable and earns more money than performing copilot duties in domestic service. So for example, instead of flying 10 legs a day from Greenville to Dallas to Detroit, you can fly to Paris and spend 24 hours on the ground visiting the city!

Does the GI bill pay for flight school?

The GI Bill® benefits for flying will not only pay for flight instruction after the Private Pilot License and aircraft rental, but will also assist in living exp enses for those students who choose to attend a flight school that is not located in their home city.

Is the GI Bill for pilots?

Therefore, the first level of pilot certification, the private pilot license, is not covered by the GI Bill®. Bummer.

Is the VA a cash cow?

There are some schools that look upon the VA as a cash cow. They make great promises and do anything to get the business of a flight student who will be using GI Bill® Benefits because it is sure income. BUT, the degree to which these schools actually care about the welfare and success of their students varies greatly.

Can you use the GI Bill for flight school?

GI Bill® benefits for flying training must be used at a flight school that has been approved by the Veterans Administration. No surprise there. In order for a flight school to gain approval by the Veterans Administration it has to pass the rigorous additional standards placed on flight schools by the FAA which qualify that flight school ...

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How Is This Program Different from The GI Bill?

How Much Does The Program Cost?

  • Under the Forces to Flyers program flight schools must deduct $13,526from the cost of training. This amount represents the 100% annual benefit level for the Post-9/11 GI Bill for vocational flight school training. So, if you are eligible for the GI Bill you could possibly get certified for free. If you don't have GI Bill eligibility you will have t...
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What Exactly Does This Training Entail?

  • This is an accelerated training program, some people have reported completing it in 4 months. According to the DOT, flight schools offering this training will provide the training necessary for up to 40 students to earn the following certificates and ratings: 1. Private Pilot Certificate 2. Instrument Rating 3. Commercial Pilot Certificate 4. Multi-Engine Rating 5. Certified Flight Instru…
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What Schools Are Participating in The Program?

  • Currently, this is a test program to determine the interest in a training program for veterans to become pilots. As such, there are only four schools nationwide participating: 1. Western Pacific/Northwest/Mountain/Alaskan Region: Leading Edge Aviation, Inc.– Bend, Oregon 2. Central/Great Lakes Region: CTI Professional Flight Training, LLC– Millington, Tennessee 3. Sou…
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How Do I Enroll in The Program?

  • Since this is a test program, vacancies are extremely limited, so don't delay in applying if you are interested. Check out the Dept. of Transportation Forces To Flyers website for details.
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