If you are looking for the best flight schools in Florida, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will review the top 10 flight schools in Florida based on their programs, tuition, accreditation, and endorsements. Whether you want to become a private pilot, a commercial pilot, or a flight instructor, you will find a flight school that suits your needs and goals. Learn more about the best flight schools in Florida here.
If you are looking for a flight school in Florida, you have many options to choose from. Florida is one of the most popular destinations for aspiring pilots, as it offers a variety of flight training programs, weather conditions, and aviation facilities. Whether you want to become a professional pilot, a flight instructor, or just fly for fun, you can find a flight school that suits your needs and goals in Florida.
In this article, we will review the best 10 flight schools in Florida, based on their reputation, curriculum, facilities, instructors, and student feedback. We will also provide some tips on how to choose the right flight school for you and answer some frequently asked questions.
1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) is one of the most prestigious and renowned aviation universities in the world. It has two residential campuses in Florida: one in Daytona Beach and one in Prescott. It also offers online and worldwide programs through a network of locations and partnerships.
ERAU offers a wide range of degree programs in aviation, aerospace, engineering, business, security, intelligence, and space. Some of the unique programs include Aerospace Physiology, Space Physics, Space Operations, and Unmanned and Autonomous Systems Engineering. ERAU also has a College of Business, Security and Intelligence, which is the first of its kind in the nation.
ERAU has state-of-the-art facilities, including flight simulators, laboratories, research centers, and aircraft fleets. It also has strong connections with the aviation industry and government agencies, providing students with internship and career opportunities. ERAU graduates are highly sought-after by employers and often become leaders in their fields.
ERAU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI). It is also approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to offer Part 141 flight training.
Pros
- High-quality education and reputation
- Diverse and innovative degree programs
- Cutting-edge facilities and equipment
- Extensive industry and government partnerships
- Excellent career outcomes
Cons
- High tuition and fees
- Competitive admission process
- Limited financial aid options
2. Epic Flight Academy
Epic Flight Academy is an international flight school located in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. It was founded in 1999 and has since trained thousands of pilots from all over the world. Epic Flight Academy offers both airplane and helicopter training programs for various levels of certification, from private pilot to airline transport pilot.
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Epic Flight Academy has a fleet of over 40 aircraft, including Cessna 172s, Piper Seminoles, Robinson R22s, and R44s. It also has advanced flight simulators, such as the Redbird MCX full-motion simulator and the Frasca TruFlite H helicopter simulator. Epic Flight Academy operates from the New Smyrna Beach Municipal Airport (KEVB), which has two runways and a control tower.
Epic Flight Academy is approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to issue Form I-20 for international students who need an F-1 student visa. It is also approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to accept GI Bill benefits for eligible veterans. Epic Flight Academy has partnerships with several airlines, such as American Eagle, Envoy Air, Piedmont Airlines, Republic Airways, Silver Airways, SkyWest Airlines, and United Airlines.
Pros
- International student-friendly
- Veteran-friendly
- Airline partnerships
- Modern fleet and simulators
- Year-round flying weather
Cons
- No degree programs
- No on-campus housing
- No Part 61 option
3. Tampa Bay Aviation
Tampa Bay Aviation is a flight school that offers airplane and helicopter training programs in Clearwater and Tampa Bay, Florida. It was established in 2012 with one helicopter and has since grown to four locations with over 20 aircraft. Tampa Bay Aviation provides charter services, flight instruction, helicopter tours, and aircraft maintenance.
Tampa Bay Aviation offers Part 61 and Part 141 flight training programs for various ratings and certificates, from sport pilot to airline transport pilot. It also offers specialty courses such as aerobatics, tailwheel endorsement, seaplane rating, instrument proficiency check (IPC), flight review (FR), and multi-engine instructor (MEI). Tampa Bay Aviation has a diverse fleet of aircraft, including Cessna 152s, Cessna 172s, Piper Warriors, Piper Arrows, Piper Senecas, Diamond DA40s, Diamond DA42s, Citabria 7GCBCs, CubCrafters CC11-160 Carbon Cubs, Icon A5s, Robinson R22s, Robinson R44s, and Bell 206 JetRangers.
Tampa Bay Aviation operates from four locations: Clearwater Airpark (KCLW), St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (KPIE), Albert Whitted Airport (KSPG), and Tampa Executive Airport (KVDF). These airports offer a variety of runway lengths, instrument approaches, and airspace classes, giving students exposure to different flying scenarios. Tampa Bay Aviation also has access to the scenic coastline and the Gulf of Mexico, making flying more enjoyable and fun.
Pros
- Part 61 and Part 141 options
- Specialty courses
- Diverse fleet of aircraft
- Multiple locations
- Scenic flying environment
Cons
- No degree programs
- No international student support
- No airline partnerships
4. Phoenix East Aviation
Phoenix East Aviation (PEA) is a flight school that specializes in professional pilot training for domestic and international students. It was founded in 1972 and is located in Daytona Beach, Florida. PEA offers Part 141 and Part 61 flight training programs for various certificates and ratings, from private pilot to airline transport pilot.
PEA has a fleet of over 40 aircraft, including Piper Warriors, Piper Arrows, Piper Seminoles, Cessna 172s, and Beechcraft Barons. It also has several flight simulators, such as the Frasca 141, the Frasca 242, the Frasca Mentor, and the Redbird FMX. PEA operates from the Daytona Beach International Airport (KDAB), which has three runways and a control tower. PEA also has satellite locations at the Ormond Beach Municipal Airport (KOMN) and the New Smyrna Beach Municipal Airport (KEVB).
PEA is approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to issue Form I-20 for international students who need an F-1 student visa. It is also approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to accept GI Bill benefits for eligible veterans. PEA has partnerships with several airlines, such as Air Wisconsin, Cape Air, CommutAir, Endeavor Air, ExpressJet Airlines, GoJet Airlines, Mesa Airlines, Piedmont Airlines, PSA Airlines, Republic Airways, SkyWest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Trans States Airlines.
Pros
- International student-friendly
- Veteran-friendly
- Airline partnerships
- Part 141 and Part 61 options
- Large fleet and simulators
Cons
- No degree programs
- No on-campus housing
- High student-to-instructor ratio
5. SkyEagle Aviation Academy
SkyEagle Aviation Academy is a flight school that offers airplane and helicopter training programs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It was founded in 2011 and has since trained hundreds of pilots from different countries. SkyEagle Aviation Academy offers Part 141 and Part 61 flight training programs for various certificates and ratings, from private pilot to airline transport pilot.
SkyEagle Aviation Academy has a fleet of over 10 aircraft, including Cessna 152s, Cessna 172s, Piper Senecas, Robinson R22s, and Robinson R44s. It also has a Redbird FMX full-motion simulator and a Redbird TD2 desktop simulator. SkyEagle Aviation Academy operates from the Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (KFXE), which has two runways and a control tower. SkyEagle Aviation Academy also offers scenic flights over Miami Beach, Key West, Everglades National Park, and Bahamas.
SkyEagle Aviation Academy is approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to issue Form I-20 for international students who need an F-1 student visa. It is also approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to offer Part 141 flight training. SkyEagle Aviation Academy has partnerships with several airlines, such as Envoy Air, Silver Airways, and Ameriflight.
Pros
- International student-friendly
- Airline partnerships
- Part 141 and Part 61 options
- Full-motion simulator
- Scenic flights
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Cons
- No degree programs
- No veteran support
- Small fleet of aircraft
6. Kingsky Flight Academy
Kingsky Flight Academy is a flight school that offers airplane training programs in Lakeland, Florida. It was established in 2004 and has since trained many pilots from different backgrounds. Kingsky Flight Academy offers Part 141 and Part 61 flight training programs for various certificates and ratings, from private pilot to airline transport pilot.
Kingsky Flight Academy has a fleet of over 10 aircraft, including Cessna 152s, Cessna 172s, Piper Warriors, Piper Arrows, Piper Senecas, and Beechcraft Bonanzas. It also has a Redbird FMX full-motion simulator and a Redbird LD desktop simulator. Kingsky Flight Academy operates from the Lakeland Linder International Airport (KLAL), which has two runways and a control tower. Kingsky Flight Academy also hosts the annual Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo, which is one of the largest aviation events in the world.
Kingsky Flight Academy is approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to issue Form I-20 for international students who need an F-1 student visa. It is also approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to offer Part 141 flight training. Kingsky Flight Academy has partnerships with several airlines, such as Envoy Air, Piedmont Airlines, PSA Airlines, Republic Airways, and SkyWest Airlines.
Pros
- International student-friendly
- Airline partnerships
- Part 141 and Part 61 options
- Full-motion simulator
- Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo
Cons
- No degree programs
- No veteran support
- No helicopter training
7. Florida Flyers Flight Academy
Florida Flyers Flight Academy is a flight school that offers airplane training programs in St. Augustine, Florida. It was founded in 2008 and has since trained over 2,000 pilots from more than 80 countries. Florida Flyers Flight Academy offers Part 141 and Part 61 flight training programs for various certificates and ratings, from private pilot to airline transport pilot.
Florida Flyers Flight Academy has a fleet of over 30 aircraft, including Cessna 152s, Cessna 172s, Piper Warriors, Piper Arrows, Piper Seminoles, Diamond DA20s, Diamond DA40s, and Diamond DA42s. It also has several flight simulators, such as the Frasca 142, the Frasca Mentor, the Redbird FMX, and the Alsim ALX. Florida Flyers Flight Academy operates from the Northeast Florida Regional Airport (KSGJ), which has three runways and a control tower.
Florida Flyers Flight Academy is approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to issue Form I-20 for international students who need an F-1 student visa. It is also approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to offer Part 141 flight training. Florida Flyers Flight Academy has partnerships with several airlines, such as Air Wisconsin, Cape Air, CommutAir, Endeavor Air, ExpressJet Airlines, GoJet Airlines, Mesa Airlines, Piedmont Airlines, PSA Airlines, Republic Airways, SkyWest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Trans States Airlines.
Pros
- International student-friendly
- Airline partnerships
- Part 141 and Part 61 options
- Large fleet and simulators
- Diamond aircraft
Cons
- No degree programs
- No veteran support
- No helicopter training
8. L3Harris Flight Academy
L3Harris Flight Academy is a flight school that offers professional pilot training programs in Sanford, Florida. It was formerly known as Aerosim Flight Academy and Delta Connection Academy. It is part of L3Harris Technologies, a global aerospace and defense company. L3Harris Flight Academy offers Part 141 flight training programs for various certificates and ratings, from private pilot to airline transport pilot.
L3Harris Flight Academy has a fleet of over 50 aircraft, including Cessna 172s, Piper Warriors, Piper Arrows, Piper Seminoles, and Cirrus SR20s. It also has several flight simulators, such as the CRJ200 Level D full-flight simulator, the CRJ200 Level 5 flight training device (FTD), the AATD Level 6 FTD, and the Redbird MCX FTD. L3Harris Flight Academy operates from the Orlando Sanford International Airport (KSFB), which has four runways and a control tower.
L3Harris Flight Academy is approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to issue Form I-20 for international students who need an F-1 student visa. It is also approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to offer Part 141 flight training. L3Harris Flight Academy has partnerships with several airlines, such as Air Wisconsin, American Eagle, Delta Air Lines, Endeavor Air, Envoy Air, ExpressJet Airlines, Frontier Airlines, GoJet Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Mesa Airlines, Piedmont Airlines, PSA Airlines, Republic Airways, SkyWest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and United Airlines.
Pros
- International student-friendly
- Airline partnerships
- Part 141 option
- Large fleet and simulators
- Cirrus aircraft
Cons
- No degree programs
- No veteran support
- No helicopter training
- No Part 61 option
9. Wayman Aviation Academy
Wayman Aviation Academy is a flight school that offers airplane training programs in Miami and Pembroke Pines, Florida. It was established in 1987 and has since trained over 10,000 pilots from more than 80 countries. Wayman Aviation Academy offers Part 141 and Part 61 flight training programs for various certificates and ratings, from private pilot to airline transport pilot.
Wayman Aviation Academy has a fleet of over 40 aircraft, including Cessna 152s, Cessna 172s, Piper Warriors, Piper Arrows, Piper Seminoles, and Diamond DA42s. It also has several flight simulators, such as the Redbird FMX, the Redbird MCX, the Redbird LD, the Frasca Mentor, and the Alsim AL250. Wayman Aviation Academy operates from two locations: the Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport (KOPF) and the North Perry Airport (KHWO). Both airports have multiple runways and control towers.
Wayman Aviation Academy is approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to issue Form I-20 for international students who need an F-1 student visa. It is also approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to offer Part 141 flight training. Wayman Aviation Academy has partnerships with several airlines, such as Envoy Air, Piedmont Airlines, PSA Airlines, Republic Airways, SkyWest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines.
Pros
- International student-friendly
- Airline partnerships
- Part 141 and Part 61 options
- Large fleet and simulators
- Diamond aircraft
Cons
- No degree programs
- No veteran support
- No helicopter training
10. ATP Flight School
ATP Flight School is a flight school that offers professional pilot training programs in various locations across the United States, including Florida. It was founded in 1984 and has since trained over 35,000 pilots. ATP Flight School offers Part 141 and Part 61 flight training programs for various certificates and ratings, from private pilot to airline transport pilot.
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ATP Flight School has a fleet of over 400 aircraft, including Cessna 172s, Piper Archers, Piper Seminoles, and Diamond DA40s. It also has several flight simulators, such as the Redbird FMX, the Redbird MCX, the Redbird TD2, and the Frasca Mentor. ATP Flight School operates from multiple locations in Florida, such as Daytona Beach (KDAB), Fort Lauderdale (KFXE), Jacksonville (KCRG), Naples (KAPF), Orlando (KSFB), Tampa (KPIE), and West Palm Beach (KLNA).
ATP Flight School is approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to accept GI Bill benefits for eligible veterans. It is also approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to offer Part 141 flight training. ATP Flight School has partnerships with several airlines, such as American Eagle, Delta Air Lines, Endeavor Air, Envoy Air, ExpressJet Airlines, Frontier Airlines, GoJet Airlines, Mesa Airlines, Piedmont Airlines, PSA Airlines, Republic Airways, SkyWest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and United Airlines.
Pros
- Veteran-friendly
- Airline partnerships
- Part 141 and Part 61 options
- Large fleet and simulators
- Multiple locations
Cons
- No degree programs
- No international student support
- No helicopter training
How to Choose the Right Flight School for You
Choosing the right flight school for you depends on several factors, such as your goals, budget, preferences, and availability. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Define your goals. Do you want to become a professional pilot, a flight instructor, or just fly for fun? Do you want to earn a degree in aviation or just a certificate? Do you want to fly airplanes or helicopters? Do you want to fly for a specific airline or region? These questions will help you narrow down your options and find a flight school that matches your objectives.
- Compare the costs. Flight training is not cheap, so you need to consider the costs of tuition, fees, books, supplies, exams, medicals, insurance, and living expenses. You also need to compare the hourly rates of the aircraft and instructors, as well as the minimum flight hours required for each program. Some flight schools may offer scholarships, grants, loans, or payment plans to help you finance your education. You should also check if the flight school accepts GI Bill benefits if you are a veteran.
- Check the accreditation and approval. Accreditation is a voluntary process that ensures that a flight school meets certain standards of quality and accountability. Approval is a mandatory process that ensures that a flight school complies with the regulations and requirements of the FAA or DHS. You should look for a flight school that is accredited by a reputable agency, such as AABI or SACSCOC, and approved by the FAA or DHS. This will ensure that your training is recognized and accepted by employers and authorities.
- Visit the facilities and equipment. You should visit the flight school in person and see the facilities and equipment for yourself. You should check the condition and maintenance of the aircraft and simulators, the availability and accessibility of the classrooms and laboratories, the safety and security of the campus and airport, and the amenities and services offered by the flight school. You should also ask about the weather conditions and airspace environment of the location.
- Meet the instructors and staff. You should meet the instructors and staff of the flight school and get to know them better. You should ask about their qualifications, experience, teaching methods, availability, and feedback. You should also ask about the student-to-instructor ratio, the scheduling flexibility, the curriculum structure, and the evaluation system. You should look for a flight school that has competent, friendly, and supportive instructors and staff who can help you achieve your goals.
- Talk to current and former students. You should talk to current and former students of the flight school and get their opinions and insights. You should ask about their experiences, challenges, successes, and recommendations. You should also ask about the student life, culture, diversity, and community of the flight school. You should look for a flight school that has satisfied, motivated, and successful students who can inspire you and support you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about flight schools in Florida:
What are the requirements to enroll in a flight school in Florida?
The requirements to enroll in a flight school in Florida may vary depending on the program and the flight school, but generally, you need to:
- Be at least 16 years old to start flight training and 17 years old to obtain a private pilot certificate
- Be able to read, write, speak, and understand English
- Hold a valid passport or other identification document
- Obtain a student pilot certificate from the FAA
- Obtain a medical certificate from an FAA-designated aviation medical examiner
- Pass a background check and security screening if you are an international student
How long does it take to complete a flight training program in Florida?
The duration of a flight training program in Florida depends on several factors, such as the type of program, the type of certificate or rating, the pace of learning, the availability of aircraft and instructors, the weather conditions, and the personal commitment. Generally, it takes:
- About 3 to 6 months to obtain a private pilot certificate
- About 2 to 4 months to obtain an instrument rating
- About 2 to 4 months to obtain a commercial pilot certificate
- About 1 to 2 months to obtain a certified flight instructor (CFI) certificate
- About 1 to 2 months to obtain a multi-engine rating
- About 1 to 2 months to obtain an airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate
How much does it cost to attend a flight school in Florida?
The cost of attending a flight school in Florida varies depending on the type of program, the type of certificate or rating, the number of flight hours, the type of aircraft and simulator, the hourly rates of the aircraft and instructors, and the additional fees and expenses. Generally, it costs:
- About $10,000 to $15,000 to obtain a private pilot certificate
- About $8,000 to $12,000 to obtain an instrument rating
- About $15,000 to $20,000 to obtain a commercial pilot certificate
- About $5,000 to $10,000 to obtain a certified flight instructor (CFI) certificate
- About $5,000 to $10,000 to obtain a multi-engine rating
- About $5,000 to $10,000 to obtain an airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate
What are the benefits of attending a flight school in Florida?
Some of the benefits of attending a flight school in Florida are:
- Florida has year-round warm and sunny weather, which allows for more flying opportunities and less weather delays.
- Florida has many airports and airspace classes, which provide diverse and challenging flying scenarios and experiences.
- Florida has many flight schools and aviation facilities, which offer a variety of programs, options, and resources for aspiring pilots.
- Florida has many attractions and activities, such as beaches and theme parks
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