South Korea & United States – US Aviation Academy (USAA), one of the largest aviation and pilot training organizations in North America operating over 200 aircraft, has announced a partnership with Korea Aerospace University to launch first FAA aircraft maintenance technician program outside the U.S.

This innovative program allows students to simultaneously obtain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) aircraft maintenance engineer license and a domestic aircraft maintenance engineer license, marking the first time such a course will be operated outside of the United States.

The collaboration between USAA and Korea Aerospace University signifies a major milestone in aviation education, as it combines the expertise and resources of both institutions. Korea Aerospace University has completed the installation of FAA training equipment and introduced a new Learjet aircraft for training in its on-campus hangar. The university also plans to incorporate VR/AR-based education in the future.

An unveiling ceremony for the FAA U.S. Aircraft Maintenance Engineer License Specialized Training Institute was held on June 24th at Korea Aerospace University. The event was attended by key figures from both institutions, including USAA CFO Justin Sykes, Chief Development Officer Scott Sykes, Education Director Stormy Sykes, and KAU President Hee-Young Huh.

USAA, the largest FAA-certified training institution in the United States, operates 12 campuses and maintains a fleet of over 200 aircraft. The academy produces 1,700 pilots and maintenance personnel annually and has established partnerships with major airlines such as Delta Air Lines and StandardAero. This partnership with Korea Aerospace University marks USAA’s first venture into the Asian market, following a mutual agreement signed in 2022.

The FAA US Aircraft Maintenance Engineer course is a one-year program, with six months of training at Korea Aerospace University and six months at USAA in Dallas, Texas. Upon completion, students will be eligible to take both the FAA qualification exam and the domestic license exam. Successful candidates will have access to internship and employment opportunities in various countries, including the US, Japan, and Singapore.

Justin Sykes, CFO of USAA, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are excited to work with Korea Aerospace University to create the first FAA U.S. aircraft maintenance technician program outside the United States.”

Source: US Aviation Academy