Market Intelligence: North America

USA’s National Flight Training Alliance Urges Senate to Recognize Flight Training Programs as Professional Licensure Tracks

United States – The National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA) has submitted a formal appeal to the United States Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, advocating for undergraduate flight training programs (specifically 14 CFR Part 141) to be formally recognized as professional licensure programs. This effort aims to increase pilot supply, support economic development, and reduce cost barriers for aspiring aviators.

  • NFTA requests that students enrolled in 14 CFR Part 141 programs be reclassified as “professional students” to align with broader federal definitions used for educational funding and licensure recognition.

  • Proposed definition:

    “(ii) PROFESSIONAL STUDENT – The term ‘professional student’ means a student enrolled in a program of study that (I) awards a professional degree upon completion of the program; or (II) provides the training described in part 141 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulations).”

  • The letter emphasizes that:

    • Nearly 50% of U.S. commercial airline pilots are expected to retire within the next 15 years.

    • Undergraduate flight training leads to a commercial pilot license and prepares students for further professional certifications—comparable to graduate-level education.

    • These programs entail high costs similar to those of other professional degrees, warranting equal access to financial aid and loan programs.

  • By acknowledging the professional value of these programs, Congress can:

    • Support long-term pilot pipeline development.

    • Expand access to loan repayment and educational grants.

    • Help restore regional air service and strengthen the U.S. aviation industry.

  • Captain Lee Collins, CEO of NFTA, concludes the communication by offering to collaborate with the HELP Committee to align the proposed updates with the broader goals of higher education reform.

About National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA)
The NFTA is an advocacy organization representing professional flight training institutions across the United States. It works to ensure the growth, sustainability, and recognition of high-quality aviation education pathways that directly support the nation’s commercial and civil aviation workforce.

Source: National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA)
Photo Credit: National Flight Training Alliance

Related Posts

Redbird Flight Simulations Announces 2025 Leadership Appointments Including CEO and COO

Austin, Texas, USA – Redbird Flight Simulations has announced a major leadership transition as Charlie Gregoire assumes the role of Chief Executive Officer, becoming the company’s second CEO since its founding. He succeeds Todd Willinger, who will now serve as Executive Chairman. The transition follows a structured succession plan aimed at sustaining Redbird’s momentum in aviation training innovation. Josh Harnagel, formerly VP of Customer Experience, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer (COO). These leadership changes mark a new chapter for the simulator manufacturer as it looks to expand its impact on global flight training.

  • Charlie Gregoire appointed CEO of Redbird Flight Simulations, effective immediately.

  • Gregoire previously served as Redbird’s Chief Operating Officer and was instrumental in shaping company strategy and operations since its founding.

  • Todd Willinger, the outgoing CEO, becomes Executive Chairman, continuing in an advisory role to ensure a smooth transition.

  • Willinger originally succeeded Founder Jerry Gregoire, who now steps down from his role as Chairman and board member.

  • Josh Harnagel is promoted from VP of Customer Experience to Chief Operating Officer.

  • The leadership transition supports Redbird’s continued mission to improve safety and accessibility in aviation through innovative training solutions.

Statements:

  • “It is an honor to step into the role of CEO of Redbird and lead a passionate team of people that works every day to make aviation safer and more accessible. Redbird is uniquely positioned to continue developing innovative solutions that shape the future of aviation education and flight training. I want to thank Todd for his leadership and vision, which set us up for this next phase of growth, and I look forward to building upon that work.” – Charlie Gregoire, CEO, Redbird Flight

  • “Charlie has played a critical role in the development of Redbird’s operations and long-term strategy since the company’s founding. He has a clear vision for the future of Redbird, a well-articulated roadmap, and a proven ability to drive business performance. I am confident he is the right person to guide the company forward.” – Todd Willinger, Executive Chairman, Redbird Flight

About Redbird Flight
Redbird Flight Simulations is a leading U.S.-based manufacturer of affordable, innovative flight training devices and software. Founded in 2006, the company has delivered thousands of simulators to flight schools, universities, and aviation organizations in over 50 countries. With a mission to make aviation training safer, more effective, and more accessible, Redbird continues to develop tools that bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world flying.

Source: Redbird Flight Simulations
Photo Credit: Redbird Flight Simulations

Related Posts

US Regional Operator SkyWest Places Firm Order For 60 Embraer Aircraft

USA – Embraer has received a firm order from SkyWest for 60 aircraft with purchase rights on 50 additional aircraft. Deliveries of the aircraft will begin in 2027. The list price value of the firm order contract for 60 aircraft, which will be included in Embraer’s Q2 backlog, is US$3.6billion.

With a fleet of 263 aircraft, and an existing backlog of 16 aircraft, SkyWest Airlines is the largest E-Jet owner and operator in the world. This order further advances their position.

Chip Childs, President and CEO of SkyWest, said: “As the largest E175 owner and operator worldwide, we’re pleased to continue growing our E175 fleet and enhance our dual-class footprint. This order enables us to advance our long-term fleet strategy and to continue to deliver the premier regional product in the industry.”

Arjan Meijer, President & CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, added: “We are thrilled to continue our long-standing partnership with SkyWest Airlines with this mega order. The E175 is the cornerstone of regional aviation in North America, and this order underscores SkyWest’s confidence in our aircraft’s performance, reliability, and passenger comfort. We look forward to supporting SkyWest’s growth and success in the years to come.”

Embraer and SkyWest have been working closely together for nearly 40 years, beginning in 1986 when the airline acquired five EMB-120 Brasilia aircraft. By the end of 1997, SkyWest was celebrating its 25th anniversary and operating more than 40 EMB-120 aircraft. In 2013, the partnership was renewed with the purchase of 100 E175s. Today, SkyWest is the largest operator of the E175, with 263 aircraft.

About SkyWest
SkyWest, Inc. is the holding company for SkyWest Airlines, SWC, and SkyWest Leasing, an aircraft leasing company. SkyWest Airlines has a fleet of nearly 500 aircraft connecting passengers to over 265 destinations throughout North America. SkyWest Airlines operates through partnerships with United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines carrying more than 42 million passengers in 2024.

About Embraer
Embraer is a global aerospace company headquartered in Brazil. It manufactures aircraft for Commercial and Executive aviation, Defense & Security, and Agricultural customers. The company also provides after-sales services & support through a worldwide network of wholly owned entities and authorized agents. Since it was founded in 1969, Embraer has delivered more than 9,000 aircraft. On average, about every 10 seconds, an aircraft manufactured by Embraer takes off somewhere worldwide, transporting over 150 million passengers a year. Embraer is the leading manufacturer of commercial jets with up to 150 seats and is the leading exporter of high-value-added goods in Brazil. The company maintains industrial units, offices, service and parts distribution centers across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe. 

Source: Embraer
Photo Credit: Embraer

Related Posts

Global Pilot Training Group Skyborne Partners with Elevate(her) to Diversify the Flight Deck

Global – Skyborne Airline Academy announced a partnership with Elevate(her), a community-led initiative dedicated to empowering women in aviation worldwide, to expand access to flight training and drive greater female representation in the cockpit.

With women accounting for fewer than 6% of airline pilots*, the partnership aims to encourage aspiring female aviators and accelerate efforts to create a more inclusive industry. This collaboration will see Skyborne and Elevate(her) deliver global targeted outreach, mentorship and free online resources designed to support women at every stage of their aviation journey – from first interest to professional training.

Carla Booth, commercial director, Skyborne, says: “Greater diversity in aviation requires real action. At Skyborne, we’re committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment for all trainees and inspiring people from all backgrounds to pursue careers in aviation. Working with Elevate(her) will allow us to broaden our reach in the UK and US, and offer more tailored support to our female trainees.”

Katherine Moloney, founder, Elevate(her), adds: “Our goal has always been to break down cultural and structural barriers and give women the confidence and knowledge they need to succeed in aviation. Working with Skyborne provides us with a global platform and a partner that truly understands the importance of representation at every level of the industry. Together, we’ll provide even greater support and visibility for the next generation of women in aviation.”

This collaboration builds on Skyborne’s wider commitment to expanding diversity in the flight deck, following its recent announcement partnering with Jet2.com on its fully-funded Jet2FlightPath programme. 

*Women pilots represent around 6% of the global pilot population.

About Skyborne
Skyborne Airline Academy is a premier airline training academy based at Vero Beach, Florida, United States, and Gloucestershire and Bournemouth Airports in the United Kingdom. Established by industry experts, Skyborne brings a fresh approach to airline pilot training. Founders Tom Misner (chairman) and Lee Woodward (CEO) have unsurpassed experience in commercial aviation, education and training. Their vision has created a training environment where the highest standard of teaching, safety and relevant airline-style training is maintained, and interactive learning is encouraged. Using a combination of tried and tested methods and the latest technology to assess competence, suitability, aptitude and resilience, Skyborne recruits the very best candidates to minimise additional training, reduce failure rates and provide airlines with better pilots and cabin crew. Skyborne is proud to hold close relationships with the world’s leading airlines, offering opportunities for trainees as part of British Airways’ Speedbird Pilot Academy, the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program, the Propel Flight Academy by Delta and the SkyWest Professional Pilot Pathway. Skyborne is also the only academy to support DHL Air (UK) with a fully funded Integrated ATPL training initiative for its employees.

About Elevate(her)
Elevate(her) is an online resource platform and global community that is dedicated to raising the percentage of women in aviation careers globally, from pilots to engineers and air traffic controllers. They offer cost-free access to events, resources, membership for Elevate (her) for life. This ensures the widest possible global access to the group’s benefits. They also conduct research and outreach to schools, colleges, and universities. Reflective of the demand for the work done by Elevate (her) Aviation, has grown to thousands of members across 63 countries, with popular in-person and online events held globally. On Instagram Elevate (her) reached 8 million people with 28k followers worldwide.

Source: Skyborne
Photo Credit: Skyborne

Related Posts

National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA) Urges USA’s Senate to Enhance Language in 2025 Reconciliation Bill

Washington, D.C., USA – The National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA) has issued a formal communication to the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), urging the inclusion of key language in the current Senate Reconciliation Bill to expand access to federal financial aid for aspiring airline pilots. The proposed provisions would classify students enrolled in FAA Part 141 flight training programs as professional students—qualifying them for higher federal loan limits. NFTA emphasized that such reforms are essential to addressing the long-term pilot shortage and supporting the economic recovery of air service nationwide.

Key Points:

  • NFTA advocates for recognizing students in FAA 14 CFR Part 141 undergraduate flight training programs as professional students in federal education policy.

  • The proposed language would allow these students to access loan levels typically available to graduate and professional programs.

  • With approximately 50% of commercial pilots expected to retire in the next 15 years, the measure addresses the pilot shortage at a structural level.

  • The House has already passed similar provisions with bipartisan support, signaling momentum for education reform tied to workforce needs.

  • NFTA calls for these provisions to be incorporated into the Senate’s budget reconciliation process as a long-term investment in aviation infrastructure and workforce development.

Read the full formal letter below:

“The current Senate Reconciliation Bill contains critical provisions designed to support flight training programs, enhance accessibility to the pilot profession, sustain the pilot pipeline, and address the acute shortage of pilots in the United States.

Approximately 50 percent of commercial airline pilots are obligated to retire within the next fifteen years. There is a strong momentum for higher education reform, and the House has already passed the achievable solution with bipartisan support. This ensures that the nation maintains an adequate number of pilots in the long term.

While the aviation industry has dramatically increased salaries for new pilots and pursued targeted strategies to enhance career accessibility, a sustained comprehensive solution is essential for addressing the pilot supply.

Undergraduate flight training uniquely equips students with at least a commercial pilot’s license upon graduation. Graduates subsequently build additional flight hours required for further certifications necessary for commercial airline positions. These undergraduate programs function similarly to professional graduate programs, including their considerable associated costs.

The Act recognizes the distinct nature of flight training programs, enabling students enrolled in certified, high-quality undergraduate programs (14 CFR Part 141) to access loan amounts typically reserved for professional students.

By reclassifying Part 141 program students and acknowledging their capacity to earn competitive wages sufficient for loan repayment, The Act offers a practical solution to bolster the pilot pipeline, restore air service, and support a thriving U.S. economy.

Reducing cost barriers for aspiring pilots is imperative for restoring and improving air service nationwide.

We respectfully urge the Senate’s budget reconciliation process to incorporate provisions to increase the supply of pilots and address this economic imperative. We are committed to working with you creatively to align with the HELP committee’s goals to reform and broaden higher education and formally recognize flight training programs as professional licensure programs.

Language Request:

Define students enrolled in 14 CFR Part 141 undergraduate flight training programs as professional or graduate students:

*(ii) PROFESSIONAL STUDENT – The term ‘professional student means a student enrolled in a program of study that –

(L) awards a professional degree upon completion of the program; or

(Il) provides the training described in part 141 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulations).”

About the National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA)
The National Flight Training Alliance is a U.S.-based coalition representing FAA-certified flight schools and aviation education stakeholders. NFTA advocates for policies that sustain the national pilot pipeline, improve access to flight training, and support the long-term needs of commercial aviation through legislative and regulatory engagement.

Source: NFTA

Related Posts

Pilot Training Industry Supplier Feature – Visionary Training Resources – VR Solutions for Improving Pilot Training

In this week’s AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview Series we speak with Evey Cormican – CEO & Founder at Visionary Training Resources (VTR) – a virtual reality software design company, co-founded by experienced airline captains who are dedicated to improving pilot training.

The conversation covers:

  • Vision and Background: Evey Cormican, an experienced airline captain with over 30 years in aviation, founded VTR to transform pilot training using Virtual Reality (VR). Their flagship platform, FlightDeckToGo, is designed by airline professionals and built to address real-world pilot training challenges. VTR’s approach centers on safety, scientific principles, and operational practicality.
  • Strategic Growth and Innovation: A major milestone for VTR was its recent merger with Reaction Simulation LLC, enabling faster development and deeper customization. This move supports VTR’s three training pillars: decentralized training, individualized learning, and contextual mastery. Their AI-enhanced platform adapts to each pilot’s cognitive and behavioral patterns, delivering highly personalized and operationally relevant training.
  • Major Partnerships and FAA Integration: VTR has secured key collaborations with airlines such as Atlas Air and CommuteAir. Atlas uses VTR headsets across multiple fleets, allowing pilots to train flexibly over several weeks. CommuteAir has integrated VTR’s VR training into its FAA-approved curriculum, signaling strong regulatory support and practical utility of the technology.
  • Industry Trends and Challenges: Evey highlighted trends including mobile training, scenario-based realism, and data-driven personalization. She emphasized that pilot demand remains high despite perceived slowdowns, with training scalability and quality being critical issues. VTR addresses these by making simulator time more effective and enabling fast deployment of scenario-based updates.
  • Unique Value Proposition and Future Outlook: VTR stands out for its aviation-specific focus, scientific rigor, and operational impact. Their patented solutions go beyond compliance to improve in-flight decision-making and reduce operational costs. Evey is optimistic about regulatory support for immersive tech, envisioning a future where personalized, task-to-tool VR training becomes a core component of pilot readiness.

For more information:

You can find all of the AFM.aero Pilot Training Industry Interview Episodes here.

To stay up to date and get notified about all of the latest episodes from AFM you can follow us through the below platforms:

Related Posts

USA’s Hillsboro Aero Academy Welcomes Consul General of Japan in June 2025, Celebrating Decades of Pilot Training Collaboration

Oregon, USA – flight training group Hillsboro Aero Academywelcomed His Excellency Ken Todoroki, Consul General of Japan in Portland, along with Consul Otsuka and Consul Murakami, to its training campus. The visit underscored Hillsboro’s enduring relationship with Japan, which spans over three decades of educational cooperation. With annual student cohorts arriving from Japanese partner institutions, Hillsboro continues to serve as a hub for international pilot training, fostering professional and cultural exchange between Japan and the United States.

Source: Hillsboro Aero Academy
Photo Credit: Hillsboro Aero Academy

Related Posts

Fargo Jet Center Acquires 2 King Air 360 Aircraft at Paris Air Show 2025

France – Fargo Jet Center is proud to announce the acquisition of two Beechcraft King Air 360 aircraft from Textron Aviation. The purchase was finalized on Wednesday, June 18th, at the 55th Paris Air Show, with the agreement taking place at the Textron Aviation Special Missions booth.

This milestone marks Fargo Jet Center’s first time exhibiting at the Paris Air Show, underscoring the company’s expanding global presence in the special missions aviation sector. The acquisition was a result of a collaborative agreement between key representatives from both organizations.

“We are thrilled to secure these two King Air 360 aircraft, which are renowned for their reliability, versatility, and advanced avionics,” said Darren Hall, Vice President of Business Development, Fargo Jet Center. “These aircraft will enable us to provide mission-ready platforms to meet the needs of our global special missions customers.”

The King Air 360 is celebrated for its enhanced cabin comfort, next-generation Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion avionics, and proven performance in demanding missions. Fargo Jet Center’s investment in these aircraft demonstrates its commitment to delivering industry-leading solutions and unparalleled customer support.

For more information about Fargo Jet Center’s aircraft special missions and aircraft modification capabilities, visit www.fargojet.com/aircraft-special-missions or email specialmissions@fargojet.com.

About Fargo Jet Center
Headquartered in Fargo, ND (KFAR), Fargo Jet Center (FJC) is a global leader in aviation services and special mission aircraft modifications. Since 1995, FJC has completed more than 145 special mission aircraft used worldwide for air medical transport, atmospheric research, reconnaissance, and cloud seeding. FJC has extensive modification experience across platforms, including the Beechcraft King Air series, Cessna Citations, Bombardier Learjets, Pilatus PC-12, Daher Kodiak, and others. The company also holds multiple FAA STCs (validated in Europe (EASA) and China (VSTC)) for the integration of atmospheric research and cloud seeding systems in King Air aircraft.

In addition to special missions, FJC provides a full range of aviation services including FBO operations, maintenance, avionics, aircraft charter and management, flight training, and interior completions. Its Minneapolis-based subsidiary, Premier Jet Center (KFCM), complements these services and is home to Exclusive Aircraft Sales, an IADA-accredited dealer.

Source: Fargo Jet Center
Photo Credit: Fargo Jet Center

Related Posts