Ohio – Aspiring pilots in Ohio have a new pathway to earn a university degree while completing flight training close to home. California Aeronautical University (CAU) has officially added Lunken Flight Training Center (LFTC) to its network of Reach Flight Centers.
Based at Cincinnati’s historic Lunken Airport, Lunken Flight Training Center (opens in a new window) will offer students the opportunity to complete local flight training while earning a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics online through CAU. The partnership combines hands-on flight instruction with university-level academics, creating a streamlined pathway toward professional aviation careers.
“As we continue expanding the Reach Flight Center network, we’re focused on partnering with flight schools that share our commitment to student success and high-quality training,” said Matthew Johnston, President of California Aeronautical University. “Lunken Flight Training Center has built a strong reputation in the Midwest aviation community, and we’re excited to provide students in the region with greater access to aviation education and career opportunities.”
The Reach Flight Center program was created to make aviation education more accessible by connecting students with established flight schools in their local communities. Rather than relocating to attend a university flight program, students can complete flight training at a participating Reach Flight Center while benefiting from CAU’s aviation-focused online degree programs, academic support services, and industry partnerships. CAU’s online programs have been recognized among Newsweek’s Top Online Colleges in America for both 2025 and 2026 (opens in a new window), reflecting the university’s commitment to providing flexible, career-focused education.
“Our partnership with California Aeronautical University gives students a streamlined and degree-backed path to a commercial pilot career,” said Jay Schmalfuss, Owner of Lunken Flight Training Center. “We’re honored to be selected as a CAU Reach Flight Center which creates more options for collegiate aviation in the Cincinnati and Midwest region.”
Students enrolled through Lunken Flight Training Center as a CAU Reach Flight Center gain access to:
- A Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics from California Aeronautical University
- University academic resources and student support services
- Federal financial aid opportunities for those who qualify
- Direct pathways to both major and regional airlines, including United and SkyWest
Graduates of CAU’s aeronautics degree program are eligible for the Restricted Airline Transport Pilot (R-ATP) certificate at 1,000 flight hours rather than the standard 1,500-hour requirement, allowing them to reach airline hiring minimums sooner and begin their professional careers more quickly.
Graduates of the program have gone on to careers with major airlines, regional airlines, cargo operators, emergency medical service providers, and corporate aviation organizations across the country.
For more information about the Reach Flight Center initiative, visit calaero.edu/flight-schools/reach-flight-centers (opens in a new window).
About Lunken Flight Training Center
Lunken Flight Training Center provides professional flight training at Cincinnati’s historic Lunken Airport. Through comprehensive pilot training programs and experienced instructors, the school prepares students for success in both recreational and professional aviation while maintaining a strong commitment to safety, quality instruction, and student achievement.
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