Paying for Flight Training
Paying for flight school can be a challenge. All of our pilot courses are pay-as-you-train. Our instructors work with our clients to make sure the schedules not only meet work and other commitments, but also our client's financial commitments. As a matter of practice, we do not advocate a client taking on massive amounts of debt to reach an aviation goal. We do, however, understand that financing a portion of flight training is sometimes necessary. All clients are encouraged to consider the offers, interest rates, fees, etc. carefully before accepting financing.
Stratus Financial
See information below about how you can use this program to help pay for flight training
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Other Sources:
AOPA Aircraft Financing
Aircraft Owner's and Pilot's Association has a Flight Training Loan program.
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AOPA Scholarship
The current scholarship process from AOPA is available here.
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Scholarship List
Flight Circle has a blog post with a fairly extensive list of scholarships.
Federal Aviation Administration Scholarship List
Women in Aviation, International Scholarship list
Experimental Aircraft Association's Young Eagles Scholarship
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Veteran's Benefit Information
In order for flight training to be paid for by Veteran's Benefits including the Post 9/11 GI Bill and Montgomery GI Bill, the school must be certified under the Federal Aviation administration's Part 141 rules and approved by the VA. A further restriction is the requirement that the Veteran have his/her private pilot certificate to enroll in the advanced courses such as Instrument Pilot and Commercial Pilot.
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At this time, all of Sumter Aviation's pilot courses are conducted under 14 CFR Part 61 and therefore VA Benefits are not available to pay for training costs.
We are working to obtain the necessary certifications but have yet to complete that process.
Stratus Financial
Stratus Financial was founded by FAA Certificated Flight and Ground Instructors passionate about helping others achieve their aviation dreams. We know it’s not just about achieving your dreams (because we looked up in the sky every time,we heard an airplane too!), but funding your family’s dreams as well.That’s why Stratus was created, because with Stratus, the sky is no longer the limit.
Your Aviation Dreams Start Here
You’re not just a number, and it shows with Stratus. We look beyond the typical FICO scores and look at you as a whole aviator. We want to set you up for success before you even apply with us!
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We offer exceptional lending packages, including:
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The best rate you’ll get anywhere to go from zero to hero!
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Full financing for your entire flight training and more
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Affordable payment options, including deferment for 12 months while you complete your training AND find a job.
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Pay your loan off any time you want with no consequences or penalties whatsoever.
Stratus Has You Covered For Resources For Your Aviation Career
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Counseling with our team of flight instructors and ground instructors to support you through flight training, check rides and interviews with airlines.
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Resume reviewing, editing, and building
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AMA Phone Calls with Pilots in the 121 and 135 Industry –What It’s like, How They Got Their Job, etc.
We look forward to helping you achieving your aviation dreams and seeing you in the sky!
If you are interested in getting started, please visit our online application at:
https://stratus.finance/apply/sumteraviation1192131
If you have limited credit or low income you may needa Co-Borrower; if so, please have your co-borrower complete their application here: