What is the Flight Academy?

The flight academy is a Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF) scholarship to generate aviation interest among high school students. Additionally, it capitalizes on the diverse AFJROTC cadet population and provides pathways to aviation careers. This effort addresses the National pilot shortage across the military and industry. Students who complete the program will have the opportunity to earn college credit and their private pilot’s certification if they successfully meet university and FAA standards.

Who can apply for a Flight Academy Scholarship?

AFJROTC sophomore, junior and senior cadets who are 16 or older and in good standing may apply. Applicants must have a 3.0 or greater GPA (on a 4.0 scale) and the recommendation of their SASI and high school administrator (principal or counselor). Cadets must be 17 years old at the time of graduation to attend. AFJROTC is seeking an age waiver through the FAA to potentially allow 16 year-old students to obtain their certification.

Where is the Flight Academy held?

The Flight Academy is held at Aviation Accreditation Bureau International (AABI) accredited or member institutions throughout the U.S. Current host institutions are located in Alabama, California, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, North Dakota. Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, Utah, and Virginia.

How Long is the Flight Academy and when is it conducted?

The Flight Academy is approximately 8 weeks long and is conducted over the summer months.

What is the purpose of the Flight Academy?

The purpose of the Flight Academy is to provide an opportunity for selected cadets to earn their Private Pilot License (PPL) while simultaneously increasing an interest in aviation. The program goal is to leverage the diverse AFJROTC cadet population to help address the predicted need of 6,000 – 8,000 pilots per year for the next 20 years across the military and industry.

Are there any other benefits cadets can glean from attending the Flight Academy?

In addition to earning their PPL, cadets will earn college credit. The number of credit hours earned varies by host institution. Currently credit hours earned range from 5 to 12 credit hours. Students must meet or exceed university standards to earn college credit and their PPL.
What are the student costs for attending the Flight Academy?

Student costs are minimal. The Flight Academy Scholarship covers tuition, room, board, meals, text books, air travel, Class 1 Flight Physical Fee and Alien Student Flight Program fee (non-citizens, if required). Cadet expenses were generally limited to items normally required of any student attending college (i.e., bed linens, clothes and comfort items for the room). Cadets are provided a suggested packing list which identifies items they might want to bring and are encouraged to have a modest amount of spending money for incidentals.

Are there any unique rules associated with attending the Flight Academy?

Cadets are expected to adhere to all host institution rules/policies and to represent Air Force Junior ROTC in a positive manner. Intrinsic with that is upholding appropriate behavioral, dress, and grooming standards. All students may/may not earn their PPL or college credit. Most universities take 1 or 2 full semesters for students to earn a PPL. This program is an intensive 8-week program and students who do not put forth 110% effort may not complete their PPL. Additionally, flying may have contributing factors outside the universities control such as extended weather or maintenance. These factors may contribute to the inability of overcoming delays.

Is there a military service obligation associated with a Flight Academy Scholarship?

No, there is not! Cadets who earn their PPL will be referred to a Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Wing nearest them so they may continue their flying free of charge while they remain in AFJROTC.