Guide to using your benefits in Idaho
Depending on your eligibility, you could use Post - 9/11 education benefits to fully fund pilot training.
In order to use a Gi Bill for flight training, the VA requires that you:
Qualify for a Post 9/11 Gi Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, or Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP).
Have a private pilot’s license, and
Have a second-class medical certificate valid for second-class privileges - or a first-class medical certificate if you want to pursue the Airline Transport (ATP) certificate. Click here to search for Aviation Medical Examiners in your area.
The three options for using Gi bill benefits toward flight training
The Post 9/11 Gi Bill (Chapter 33) can be used for Part 141* accredited flight training to get your Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, and can pay for flights, tuition, housing allowance, books, fees, and supplies.
Attend a public university flight program for 100% tuition coverage,
Attend a private university and receive up to $24,476.79 annually, or
Take part in a non-degree seeking program and receive up to $13,986.72 annually at the time of this post.
Click here for current Chapter 33 payment rates
*Part 61 programs are not eligible for VA funding
VA approved flight programs in idaho
Treasure Valley Community College in Caldwell, Idaho offers an Aviation Technology - Helicopter AAS degree in partnership with Silverhawk Aviation Academy. This is an FAA accredited, Part 141 program approved for VA education benefits. Members with Post 9/11 benefit eligibility could have up to 100% tuition and fees covered.
Silverhawk Aviation Academy offers a Part 141 fixed wing, non-degree seeking program. While you would need to obtain your private pilot’s license at your own expense, you could be eligible to receive up to $13,986.72 annually with Post 9/11 benefits.
Which model is right for you?
If you’re having trouble deciding between fixed-wing and rotary, contact Silverhawk Aviation Academy and schedule a discovery flight with a 30-minute ground session and hour flight. This will give you the opportunity to see what the training is like in that airframe, take control of the aircraft with instructor supervision, and you get to account for that time in your log-book when you begin training.
For more information, click “learn more” below, or connect with Silverhawk Aviation Academy Student Services directly:
Alisha Sweeney
alisha@silverhawkaviation.net
(208) 453-8577
Aviation Scholarships
AAERO Scholarship Program awards up to $2,500 for aspiring pilots who have not yet received their private pilot’s license. Applications open May 2021.
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association awards members up to $7,500 for training as a private, sport, or recreational pilot. If you are not an AOPA member, you can get a free 6-month student pilot membership.
Leroy W. Homer Jr. Foundation awards one scholarship a year for people ages 16-23 pursuing professional flight instruction, not through a university, leading to certification as a private pilot. Scholarship applications open October 31st through January 31st.
Stripes to Bars is a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that assists veterans in their transition to aviation careers. Stripes to Bars provides annual scholarships, nationwide, for fixed-wing and rotary aircraft. Application window is open each year from January 1st to May 15th. Click here for eligibility information and to apply.
The Ninety-Nines Amelia Earhart Memorial Scholarship Fund for female aviators offers five types of aviation scholarships, to include flight training and emergency maneuver training.
Women in Aviation: Women Military Aviators Dream Flight Scholarship up to $2,500 awarded to female aviators pursuing flight ratings at an accredited institution or FAA Part 141 approved flight school.
If you’re thinking about starting a career in aviation and want more information, or are a current aviator and would like to volunteer as a mentor, click “learn more” below to be connected with Mission43’s education advisor today!