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