Student Loans Aren’t the Only Way to Fund Your Training

There are other ways to fund the pursuit.

Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at 09:51 AM ET

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If traditional numbers don't add up, you might have to use some different methods to get yourself trained. [File photo: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

Traditional student loans for pilot training often lead to significant debt and prolonged financial strain, prompting a reevaluation of the immediate return on investment for new pilots.
Aspiring pilots are encouraged to diversify their skills by pursuing complementary degrees (e.g., in tech or engineering) alongside flight training to establish a financial safety net and a more immediate income stream.
The article suggests alternative funding methods beyond traditional loans, such as saving proactively, developing additional income, or cooperatively purchasing a trainer aircraft to reduce costs and efficiently accrue flight hours.
Ultimately, pilots should approach career financing holistically, combining their passion for aviation with financially robust skills or innovative strategies to achieve long-term stability and enjoy the benefits of flying without overwhelming debt.

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Two of the dominant responses to our recent pilot shortage series surrounded the affordability of training and pilot pay entering the workforce. Many experts suggested that the numbers were just off.

For many who decide to go on this worthwhile pursuit of becoming a professional pilot, student loans offer an opportunity to pursue their dreams. Indeed, they seem quite generous. Between private and federal lenders, new students can get almost unfettered access to cash.