San Diego Flight Training Center
Pursue your pilot career - without leaving San Diego
Earn your bachelor's degree and complete flight training in one program, right here at home.
California Aeronautical University’s San Diego Flight Training Center allows students to achieve their commercial pilot career aspirations while staying in their hometown. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate ready to start college or a working professional looking to change careers, you can earn your degree and complete your flight training in one streamlined program — without relocating.
With convenient access to year-round flying conditions and the ability to stay rooted in San Diego, aspiring pilots can build their careers while staying close to family and friends.
CAU San Diego
University Strength, Local Convenience
Located at Montgomery-Gibbs Airport, CAU San Diego students benefit from the full support and resources of the University, with access to CAU’s own fleet, instructors, and services — all while training close to home.
Financial Aid & GI Bill®
The University offers access to federal financial aid and veteran educational benefits, including the GI Bill, to those who qualify.
FAA Part 141 Approval
CAU San Diego is FAA Part 141 approved. Eligible graduates can benefit from crucial time-saving benefits, including a 500 flight-hour reduction towards a restricted ATP (R-ATP) certification.
Direct Pathway To Airlines
CAU has partnered with United and several regional airlines to create opportunities for their aviation students, many of which include a direct pathway to the airline's cadet program.
Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics
California Aeronautical University’s Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics blends online academic courses with in-person flight training at CAU’s San Diego location at Montgomery-Gibbs Airport.
Students earn a university degree while completing six FAA certificates and ratings essential for commercial pilot careers, including:
- Private pilot
- Instrument
- Commercial - single
- Commercial - multi
- Certified flight instructor (CFI)
- Certified flight instructor instrument (CFII)
With year-round flight training and a fast-paced, structured schedule, students can complete their bachelor’s degree in as little as three years — getting them into the industry faster with the degree that can set them apart. No college or flight experience needed.
Alumni Success
At California Aeronautical University, your degree goes beyond flying — it’s designed to launch your career. Through strong industry partnerships, CAU students gain direct pathways into airline cadet programs, with opportunities for tuition reimbursement and streamlined hiring.
Graduates have gone on to fly for major airlines, regional carriers, cargo operators, charter companies, and emergency medical service providers.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor’s degree flight training program
- Includes earning 6 certificates/ratings
- Fast-paced, year-round courses
- Duration: 3 years (approximate)
- 255 flight hours
- 188 quarter credits
- Eligible students receive a 500-hour reduction in FAA-mandated flight time for an air transport pilot (ATP)
- Associate’s degree flight training program
- Includes earning 4 certificates/ratings
- Fast-paced, year-round courses
- Duration: 1.8 years (approximate)
- 221 flight hours
- 111 quarter credits
- Eligible students receive a 250-hour reduction in FAA-mandated flight time for an air transport pilot (ATP)
- Ideal for those already holding an undergraduate degree
We’ll help you acquire valuable analytical and interpersonal skills desired by hiring managers in the aviation industry, increasing your employment potential. If you’re looking for a more business-oriented aviation related career, it might be time to give our aviation business administration degree a shot.
As a technical aviation graduate program, the Master of Aviation Science (MAS) degree at California Aeronautical University is designed for those interested in elevating their skills and knowledge to move into leadership positions within the fields of airline and airport operations, logistics, and transportation safety.
Contact Our Admissions Team
California Aeronautical University
San Diego County Flight Training Center
3794 John J Montgomery Dr.
San Diego, CA 92123
619-293-5030
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.