Expert: David A. NewMyer - 1/16/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi Dave, for many years I always wanted to be a pilot. Im now in my junior year of High school and have been doing lots of reading on the subject. I decided that my long term aviation goal would be to work as a corporate pilot. I am aware of the licenses, certificates, hours and education needed for this career. I wan't to get a  bachelors degree when I go to college (probably in business) but I also know that I'll need the proper certificates, ratings etc. How or where do you recommend I receive and pay for this training. I am located in NJ (about ten minutes from Teterboro airport) and I can't find any universitys in my area that offer an aviation program. Thanks for your help.

ANSWER: Hi, Shawn:

I would recommend an aviation-related bachelor's degree such as a major in Aviation Management (because of your interest in business) with an emphasis in professional pilot.  There are a large number of universities and colleges that offer aviation in the USA and they are listed in the COLLEGIATE AVIATION GUIDE which is available from the University Aviation Association via their website at www.uaa.aero or by calling them at 334-844-2434.  The advantage of an aviation degree is that you can combine your college or university study with your interest in learning more about aviation.

As far as aviation schools in your area, there are three that I know about:  Mercer County Community College near Trenton, Dowling University out on Long Island and there is an aviation college right by LaGuardia Airport called (I think) the College of Aviation.  Again, consult the listing from the University Aviation Association.

As far as paying for aviation training, there are two key sources:

www.uaa.aero  has a COLLEGIATE AVIATION SCHOLARSHIP LISTING POSTED ON THE SITE...you can also order your own copy if you wish by contacting the UAA (number above).

www.avscholars.com  is a website that provides excellent aviation financial aid and scholarship information

As far as working in corporate aviation,  this is a very worthy and smart goal. The bottom line is that the corporate aviation career field is one that is booming right now and is expected to continue to boom with the advent of the "Very Light Jet" (up to 5000 to be added in the next ten years).  Also, regular corporate aircraft will continue to grow in numbers as well.

I wish you the best!  Good luck with everything and let me know if you need anything else answered.

Sincerely,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbdonale
http://www.aviation.siu.edu

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi, just a quick follow up question. I've had some people tell me that its also a good option to go to your college of choice and get your licenses and ratings through a separate flight school, as you work your way through college. This appeals to me because I wouldn't have to move far from my home town, it would be less expensive (correct me if I'm wrong) and without having to worry about interfering with a college curriculum, I could very likely have my private license by or before I finish high school. Would you recommend this option? and why or why not?

Answer
Hi,

I think that taking a college course that has aviation flight integrated into the four years is preferable to taking a general college program with flight on the side.  That said, if it is a financial decision and the general college option with flight on the side is less expensive, I would go with what you can afford.

Having your private pilot certificate finished by the time you leave high school will also make either option less expensive....most college aviation programs have a transition class that you take when you come into their aviation program with a private.

I would recommend the option that will assure that you WILL get a college degree AND be able to fly.....

Best wishes,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale