UND’s Hardware Keeps Aviation Students Flying High

University of North Dakota’s Aviation Program is bigger than you think.

Friday, February 03, 2023 at 11:43 AM ET

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The three main airframes that UND uses for student training are the Piper Archer, Piper Seminole, and Robinson R44 Cadet helicopter. [Credit: Shawna Schill/ UND]

Key Takeaways:

The University of North Dakota's John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences operates a remarkably large flight program, making Grand Forks International Airport one of the busiest in the nation with over 125,000 flight hours in FY 2022.
The program features an extensive, modern fleet of aircraft, including 68 Piper Archers, 15 Piper Seminoles, and 5 Robinson R44 Cadets, all equipped with standardized Garmin G1000 NXi avionics.
UND incorporates advanced simulation, utilizing VR devices, Frasca AATDs, a CRJ-200 FTD, and a new ALSIM Airliner Training system to enhance and supplement flight training.
Beyond flight skills, UND's highly competitive program focuses on developing well-rounded aviation professionals, emphasizing leadership, teamwork, and communication to prepare students for diverse careers in the industry.

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When most people think of the state of North Dakota, images of vast open prairies and acres of farmland stretching to the horizon come to mind.

They might know that the state is home to the National Buffalo Museum or have even visited Theodore Roosevelt National Park. What might not come to mind—unless you are knowledgeable about university aviation programs—is the huge fleet of airplanes and rotorcraft operating under University of North Dakota (UND) livery from Grand Forks International Airport (KGFK).