Flight Training Affiliate Program
Earn your pilot degree from a fast-track, aviation-focused program.
Our bachelor’s degree in aeronautics provides students with the skills and resources to start a commercial pilot career. As a career-focused university dedicated solely to aviation, we offer our students direct and accelerated pathways to several airlines, including Delta and United.
California Aeronautical University offers the Flight Training Affiliate Program to better serve aspiring aviators who reside outside of our campus location communities.
Through the program, students can earn a bachelor’s degree online while completing flight training at an approved flight training affiliate location.
Are you considering a career change? If you're juggling job and family commitments that you can't step away from for training, CAU's Flight Training Affiliate program is designed for you.
Complete your academic courses online and schedule your weekly flight training activities at a conveniently located flight training center, all tailored to fit around your busy schedule.
Plus, all instruction and courses are FAA Part 141 approved which allows eligible students to take advantage of crucial career time-saving benefits.
Meet with the CAU Admissions Team today to learn more about admissions requirements, how to pay for school, and program-specific details.
Flight Training Affiliate Program Highlights
Fast-Track
Students start flying the 1st term and can graduate in about 3 years, including up to 6 certificates and ratings.
1,000 Hour R-ATP Program
Eligible CAU graduates can qualify for an R-ATP certificate at 1,000 flight hours, a 500 flight-hour reduction.
Direct Pathway to Airlines
CAU has partnered with Delta, United, and several regional airlines to create a direct pathway to the airline's flight deck.
Aviation-Focused
Aviation is what we do. We live and breathe an aviation culture and are active participants in the aviation community.
Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautics
Designed for students who wish to be gainfully employed as a pilot, California Aeronautical University’s bachelor’s degree includes online academic courses and ground school and in-person flight training. Students earn 6 certificates and ratings that are required for pilot careers, including:
- Private
- Instrument
- Certified Flight Instructor
- Commercial – Single
- Certified Flight Instructor Instrument
- Commercial – Multi-Engine
Courses are delivered in a fast-paced, year-round schedule that enables students to earn a 4-year bachelor’s degree in about 3 years.
Flight Training Affiliate Locations
University Benefits
As a CAU student, all flight students enrolled in the Flight Training Affiliate Program can take advantage of the university benefits offered by California Aeronautical University.
TIME-SAVINGS
Eligible students can benefit from a 500 flight-hour reduction when pursuing their Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification and receive a reduction in the minimum age for eligibility. Candidates without a bachelor’s degree typically need 1,500 hours and must be at least 23 to be eligible for their ATP. Eligible CAU graduates can qualify for a restricted ATP (R-ATP) with only 1,000 hours at the age of 21.
SUPPORT
California Aeronautical University is actively invested in student success. The Office of Student Success provides support to students throughout their time at CAU to help them reach their full potential. Plus, CAU’s Graduate Services Department is available to provide individualized career planning assistance to help prepare students for gainful employment.
NETWORKING
Through the University’s strong partnerships with airlines, influential aviation organizations, and leaders in the aviation community, CAU graduates become a part of a larger aviation network and reap the benefits of these relationships.
Learn more about what sets CAU apart.
Direct Pathway to Airlines
California Aeronautical University has partnered with several airlines, including the airlines below, to create opportunities for their graduates. Most partnerships provide a direct pathway into the airline’s cadet program and may also provide access to tuition reimbursement programs. Often, students may even receive conditional job offers before they graduate.
Financial Aid & Veteran Educational Benefits
As an accredited university, CAU offers access to federal financial aid to those who qualify, including grants, loans, and scholarships.
CAU is proud to accept veteran education benefits, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, for eligible students to use towards their education. The University also participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program which can provide additional funds to cover tuition and expenses while attending CAU.
The private pilot certificate is not eligible for veteran educational benefits.
Request information to discover what aid you may qualify for your degree.
Career Outlook
Now is the Perfect Time To Apply
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 website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
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