There has been much written about students taking on debt for college, but I don’t recall seeing anything about student debt related to flight training. A lucrative field, commercial pilots are almost guaranteed an excellent salary upon licensure and employment with a regional airline, major carrier, or a corporate or logistics carrier – or some other aspect of the opportunity-filled aviation industry.
Historically, there have been few financial aid programs designed for students learning to fly. Training was often gained through a university program, which may offer traditional student loans, or the military. Flight training requires an investment of $80,000 to $100,000 from start to finish, with actual cost dependent on the availability of aircraft and simulators, advanced training curriculum, study habits and the willingness to get in the aircraft early into one’s program.
There’s definitely a financial incentive to complete a flight training program early – and that’s easier to accomplish at larger flight schools, like Paragon Flight, that have a strong business model, professional management and accelerated programs like our Professional Pilot Program (P3).
At Paragon Flight, 80% of our students use personal funds, HELOC’s, bank loans or credit cards to finance their education. Only 20% of students use traditional student loans offered through our lending partner. Still, we’re investing further in our student lending program by preparing to offer a Sallie Mae-backed funding that requires a rigorous compliance program to be completed by Paragon Flight. It’s an expense we decided was worth it to expand options for those who want to pursue their dream of flight. At the same time, we also assist our students in seeking out the 80+ scholarships available nationally for pilot training.
To be able to train at any of Paragon Flight’s three locations with Piper training aircraft, industry-leading simulators and a positive culture that drives the entire organization, regardless of location, gives students strong options without having to sacrifice an optimal training experience. Our investment in student lending is part of our mission to be the flight training provider of choice. We had record enrollment in 2024 – and 2025 inquiries are exceptionally strong out of the gate. The interest in learning to fly, particularly to obtain a commercial pilot’s license, is continuing unabated. Come visit us and see why so many choose Paragon Flight for the journey.
