Jobs for professional pilots are plentiful, due to many who are retiring or soon will be. For military veterans, this can mean lucrative signing bonuses and impressive salaries, but the cost of flight training can be prohibitive, and many wonder whether the GI Bill® can be applied to some or all of the cost of flight school for veterans.
What Is the GI Bill®?
The GI Bill® is a benefit earned and paid to veterans and the families of veterans. It provides coverage for some or all of the costs associated with schooling or training, including flight training. Eligibility for particular types of training depends on certain requirements, and the training you need will depend on what kind of license you want to obtain.
Eligibility Requirements
GI benefits can be used at a number of flight school programs for veterans. However, a number of eligibility criteria must be met.
First, you must qualify for either the Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP), the Montgomery GI Bill®, or the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. You must also have a valid first of second class medical to use your benefit.
Coverage Amounts
The amount of coverage you can get for flight training depends on a few factors, including the VA program you’re a member of. For example, veterans who are with either REAP or Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty will receive reimbursement for 60% of their flight academy fees.
Veterans using the Post-9/11 GI Bill® must be eligible for a particular percentage of benefits, which is based on length of service after September 10, 2001. Coverage also depends on the school and program a veteran is enrolled in, as well as how much entitlement is left for training under the bill.
Those who are enrolled in training at independent Part 141 pilot schools will receive a certain amount each academic year for the net cost of training. If enrolled at a private college or university program that includes flight training, veterans will receive up to the full yearly cost of fees and tuition and, possibly, receive allowances for books, supplies, and housing.
If enrolled in a program at a public college or university that includes flight training, the annual net cost of fees and tuition, and possibly additional funds for housing, supplies, and books may be provided.
Whether it’s a flight engineer, multi engine, B747-400, or rotary-wing certificate that you’re pursuing, the right training at a VA-approved facility is always required to receive benefits.
VA-Approved, Professional Flight Training
Kingsky is a VA-approved flight school in Florida. With over 60 years of experience in the aviation industry, Kingsky’s ownership by two airline captains means that students are always trained with the highest quality and safety standards. If you’re a veteran who wishes to use your benefit for flight training, we welcome your inquiry; call us today for more information: 1-863-248-2543.