Illinois Flight Training Institutions: A Guide for Aspiring Pilots
Illinois, particularly the Chicago metropolitan area, is home to a multitude of aviation operations, housing the second busiest airport in the world. This thriving aviation hub offers aspiring pilots an ideal setting to acquire the hands-on experience vital for a successful career in aviation.
While there is an array of distinguished flight training programs in Illinois, we have highlighted seven exceptional options that cater to diverse objectives of aspiring pilots.
Top Flight Training Programs in Illinois
- Best for all-around flight training program: Lewis University- Best for modern flight training program: Southern Illinois University- Best for personalized flight training program:Quincy University- Best for workforce-ready flight training program:Parkland College- Best for flexible flight training program:Southwestern Illinois College- Best for affordable flight training program: Illinois Aviation Academy- Best for accelerated flight training program:ATP Flight School
Let's delve into these top-notch institutions that attract students across the nation.
Lewis University
- Best for: All-around flight training program
Based in Romeoville, Lewis University provides a balanced pedagogical experience, intertwining both the collegiate and technical school feels. The College of Aviation, Science and Technology offers a selection of bachelor's and master's degrees for aspiring pilots. The university prioritizes practical learning, featuring simulations, research projects, clinical practices, and team competitions. With its own Lewis University Airport (KLOT) and Harold E. White Aviation Center situated just southwest of Chicago, students can effortlessly transition between ground school and flight instruction without commuting.
Explore Lewis University's professional pilot certificate program through our website's Flight School Guide.
Southern Illinois University
- Best for: Modern flight training program
Located in Carbondale, Southern Illinois University offers a traditional college experience while focusing on students' aviation development. The School of Aviation provides a range of associate, bachelor's, and master's programs for ambitious pilots. The cutting-edge Transportation Education Center is situated at Southern Illinois Airport (KMDH), approximately a 15-minute drive from the main campus. Aviation students gather most of their classes and flight hours at this facility.
Explore Southern Illinois University's professional pilot certificate program through our website's Flight School Guide.
Continue reading for more insightful details about each of these top flight training programs in Illinois.
The Land of Lincoln offers aspiring pilots a wealth of advantages, including diverse weather conditions, proximity to major airports, quality and affordable flight schools, and a strong aviation community that fosters flourishing connections. Embark on your aviation journey in Illinois and take flight towards your dream career.
To simplify your search for the perfect flight school that meets your objectives, we've collaborated with Flycore to offer a matching service to help you find the school that fits your aspirations in aviation. Say goodbye to tedious research and unwanted guesswork. Click here to start exploring today.
FAQ
1. How much does it cost to attend flight school in Illinois?
The cost of attending flight school in Illinois varies by institution type. A dedicated one-to-two-year flight school may cost around $90,000, while a four-year university could cost up to $200,000.
2. How long does it take to become a pilot in Illinois?
The time required to become a pilot in Illinois depends on the program and institution chosen. A dedicated flight school typically takes one to two years, whereas a university program may last up to four years.
3. What GPA did you need for flight school?
There is no FAA-mandated GPA requirement to attend flight school. However, accredited institutions may have GPA enrollment prerequisites.
4. Do airlines pay for flight school?
Most airlines do not finance flight school costs upfront; however, many airlines partner with flight schools to offer tuition reimbursement programs.
5. What is the average total cost of flight school?
The average total cost of attending flight school in Illinois ranges from $90,000 for a dedicated one-to-two-year school to roughly $200,000 for a four-year university.
6. How much do pilots make?
Pilot salaries are determined by factors like experience, the airline they work for, and the type of aircraft they fly. The median pay for airline and commercial pilots was $171,210 in 2023, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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In Illinois, aspiring pilots can find various flight training programs tailored to their objectives. Among the top options are Lewis University, Southern Illinois University, Quincy University, Parkland College, Southwestern Illinois College, Illinois Aviation Academy, and ATP Flight School.
Lewis University in Romeoville offers a comprehensive flight training program, balancing academic and technical skills. Southern Illinois University in Carbondale focuses on modern training with a traditional college experience. Quincy University provides personalized flight training, while Parkland College prepares students for the workforce. Southwestern Illinois College offers flexible schedules, and Illinois Aviation Academy is known for its affordability. ATP Flight School provides an accelerated training program.
These institutions are situated strategically, providing easy access to major airports and diverse weather conditions, crucial for practical training. Illinois' strong aviation community and connections in the industry make it an ideal place for aspiring pilots.
To streamline the search for the perfect flight school, a matching service has been collaborated with Flycore. Aspiring pilots can explore various programs and find their ideal match without the hassle of extensive research.
The cost of flight school in Illinois varies by institution, with expenses ranging from $90,000 for a dedicated one-to-two-year school to $200,000 for a four-year university. The time required to become a pilot depends on the program and institution chosen, ranging from one to four years.
The salary of pilots is subject to factors like experience, airline, and the type of aircraft they fly. The median pay for airline and commercial pilots was $171,210 in 2023, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Most airlines do not finance flight school costs upfront but offer tuition reimbursement programs instead.
