Finance Your Flight Training

How to pay for your flight training is the age-old question that everyone must answer. Flight training financing options can seem like a maze of different programs and options that present endless challenges. At American Flight Schools, we want to help you understand and manage the process of obtaining pilot financing for your goals.

First – Know your credit score and history. If you have good credit then getting approved for financing can be an easy process. If you don’t have good credit or limited credit history then you should be prepared to have a co-signer ready to help you complete the financing application.

Second – Consider enrolling in an aviation college or university. While most schools do not offer the flight training portion of your education, they do provide access to low interest federal student loan programs. Often payments are deferred until after graduation or dis-enrollment. American Flight Schools is a Flight Training Affiliate with multiple university programs that offer both in-person and online degree programs so you can earn both a degree and the necessary ratings for a Professional Pilot career.

Third – Consider applying for an aviation scholarship from a variety of groups. We have included a list of flight training scholarships that you may want to consider. While the flight training financing options are varied, this list is not inclusive of all scholarships that may be available and we encourage you to look at all available local flight groups and organizations.

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) AOPA offers tips and a list of scholarships available nationally.
Colorado Pilots Association The CPA is a statewide organization dedicated to making Colorado a better, safer, and more desirable place to fly.
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) EAA offers the fun and camaraderie of flying, building, and restoring recreational aircraft.
National Air Transportation Association (NATA) Scholarships The National Air Transportation Foundation (NATF), the research and educational arm of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), offers several categories of scholarships.
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Scholarships The NBAA fosters an environment that allows business aviation to thrive in the United States and around the world.
National Gay Pilots Association Scholarships The NGPA mission is to build, support, and unite the LGBT aviation community worldwide.
The Ninety-Nines, International Organization of Women Pilots Many scholarships are available for women pilots of all experience levels.
Colorado Chapter of Ninety-Nines The local chapter of the Ninety-Nines offers an additional scholarship for women pilots.
Tuskegee Airmen Annual Hubert L. ‘Hooks’ Jones Scholarship Award The Denver/Colorado Springs chapter offers a scholarship to a high school student.
University Aviation Association (UAA) Scholarship Listing The University Aviation Association (UAA) is the voice of collegiate aviation to its members, the industry, government and the general public.
Fourth – Flight Training financing can also be accomplished using several third party financing options. THIS OPTION IS CURRENTLY RESERVED FOR THOSE WISHING TO ENROLL IN THE PROFESSIONAL PILOT PROGRAM. VISIT THE PROFESSIONAL PILOT PAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION. STRATUS FINANCIAL DOES NOT ACCEPT LOANS FOR PRIVATE PILOT TRAINING ONLY.  American Flight Schools has teamed up with Stratus Financial to offer our student’s a unique financing option.
Stratus Financial was founded by FAA Certificated Flight and Ground Instructors passionate about helping others achieve their aviation dreams. We know it’s not just about achieving your dreams (because we looked up in the sky every time, we heard an airplane too!), but funding your family’s dreams as well. That’s why Stratus was created, because with Stratus, the sky is no longer the limit.

Your Aviation Dreams Start Here

You’re not just a number, and it shows with Stratus. We look beyond the typical FICO scores and look at
you as a whole aviator. We want to set you up for success before you even apply with us!

We offer exceptional lending packages, including:

  • The best rate you’ll get anywhere to go from zero to hero!
  • Full financing for your entire flight training and more
  • Affordable payment options, including deferment for 12 months while you complete your training AND find a job.
  • Pay your loan off any time you want with no consequences or penalties whatsoever.

Stratus Has You Covered For Resources For Your Aviation Career

  • Counseling with our team of flight instructors and ground instructors to support you through flight training, check rides and interviews with airlines.
  • Resume reviewing, editing, and building
  • AMA Phone Calls with Pilots in the 121 and 135 Industry – What It’s like, How They Got Their Job, etc.

We look forward to helping you achieving your aviation dreams and seeing you in the sky!

If you are interested in getting started, please click here to apply now.