Hannah Sanchez

First Officer at PSA Airlines

From her first Aviation class at North High School to the flight deck at PSA Airlines, Hannah Sanchez’s journey has been defined by determination, growth, and a love for flight. At CAU, she transitioned from Aviation Business to flight training, served as a student dispatcher and CFI/II, and earned the Outstanding Graduate award. After completing her degree and an internship at KBFL, she became a PSA Cadet and instructor—now flying as a First Officer with ambitions to captain a CRJ 700/900 and join a legacy airline.

Guidance from Alum

"After all of it, if there is any wisdom that I can pass down to current students is to ENJOY every lesson, every time you are studying, and every pass. This is a very serious career choice and safety is of the utmost importance but it's also the coolest office view and thrilling job. Have fun but still get your work done."

Success Journey

Aviation Class

Before enrolling at CAU, Hannah took an aviation class her senior year at her high school.

May '21 | Enrolled at CAU

Enrolled in CAU's Aviation Business program.

Enrolled in Flight Program

Switched to Aeronautics flight program from CAU.

Joined PSA Cadet Program

While working toward her degree, Hannah joined PSA's pilot cadet program.

Jan '24 | Graduated

Graduated with Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics from CAU.

Hired at PSA Airlines

Interviewed and hired as First Officer for PSA Airlines.

Accolades

Dean's List

Outstanding Graduate for Class of 2023

Memberships & Affiliations

Women in Aviation

Latino Pilots Association

Steps to Success

Step 1: Discover Your Passion for Aviation

Consider taking an introductory aviation course in high school to explore the field and see if it sparks your interest—just like Hannah did at North High School.

Resources:

Become A Pilot

Step 2: Enroll in a Aviation Degree Program

Begin with a program that aligns with your interests. Hannah initially enrolled in CAU’s Aviation Business program in January 2020.

Resources:

Aviation Programs
B.S. Aviation Business Administration
Admissions Requirements
Apply to CAU

Step 3: Follow Your Passion and Pivot if Needed

If you discover a deeper interest—like flying—don’t be afraid to switch tracks. Hannah transitioned from Aviation Business to the Flight program in 2021.

Resources:

Become A Pilot
Flight Programs

Step 4: Start Education & Training

Work in supporting roles, such as dispatch, to understand the behind-the-scenes of flight operations. Hannah served as a student dispatcher at CAU.

Resources:

Become A Pilot
How To Become A Pilot: Step-by-Step

Step 5: Intern to Broaden Perspective

Apply for internships to gain exposure to other aspects of aviation. Hannah interned under the Director of KBFL, learning airport operations beyond the cockpit.

Resources:

CAU Airline Partners
CAU Alumni Success

Step 6: Contact Prospective Employers.

Since CAU hosts frequent employer visits with its airline and aviation partners, Hannah was able to make direct contact with PSA Airlines.

Resources:

CAU Airline Partners
CAU Alumni Success

Step 7: Earn Necessary Credentials

Through CAU's structured curriculum, Hannah was able to earn her necessary certifications and ratings to begin working at PSA Airlines. While some airlines may require specialized aircraft ratings, CAU prepares students to adequately achieve success across most airlines and commercial pilot careers.

Resources:

Become A Pilot Homepage
Why Choose CAU
CAU Alumni Success

Step 8: Join Pilot Cadet Program

While earning her Bachelor's at CAU, Hannah joined the PSA Airlines cadet program.

CAU is partnered directly with PSA Airlines, making the transition seamless to a pilot cadet.

Resources:

CAU Airline Partners
CAU Alumni Success
Why Choose CAU

Step 9: Graduate & Get Hired

Hannah graduated from CAU with her Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics, and was then hired at PSA Airlines. Earning a bachelors degree is a key step toward long-term career growth and advancement in the aviation industry.

Resources:

Aviation Programs
B.S. Aeronautics Degree Program
Admissions Requirements
Contact Admissions
Apply to CAU

Step 10: Prepare for Future Success

Keep progressing. Hannah is now working toward meeting the hour requirements to become a CRJ 700/900 captain and ultimately fly for a legacy carrier.

Resources:

Become A Pilot
Admissions Requirements
Contact Admissions
Apply to CAU

Future Goals

"Now that I’ve made it to the Regionals a whole other journey has begun. The goals of building hours hasn’t stopped, I am currently working on building them to meet the requirements to become a captain here at PSA for the CRJ 700/900. And one day even a legacy airline."

Certifications & Ratings Earned

Student Pilot Certificate

Private Pilot Certificate

Commercial Pilot Certificate

Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)

Multi-Engine Pilot Rating

Instrument Pilot Rating

More CAU Alumni Success

Aaron Hepps

First Officer at Delta Air Lines

Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics
Master of Aviation Science

Blaise Pock

Captain at PlaneSense