School of Aeronautics
“The best pilots fly more than the others; that's why they're the best.” ― Chuck Yaeger
The Journey Begins
When you begin CAU’s aviation and flight training degree programs, it’s pretty clear from the start that you’re beginning an exciting journey. You may be flying the blue skies of Southern California or Arizona aboard California Aeronautical University aircraft during your very first term of training. Or if you prefer working on the planes instead of flying them, you could be ready for your aircraft maintenance career in about 17 months.
With on-airport locations throughout California and in Arizona that provide an ideal learning environment, CAU courses are delivered in a year-round, fast-paced schedule that enables students to enter the pipeline for aviation careers in a shorter amount of time. CAU instructors can introduce you to realistic scenarios on flight simulators and aircraft, help develop your skills with hands-on, practical demonstrations and more.
Choose Your Flight Plan
Whether you’re interested in becoming a professional pilot, managing maintenance on a fleet of aircraft, or want to know how to become an airline pilot, California Aeronautical University offers training to help you launch your aviation career.
Our Aviation Programs Include:
Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management
Associate of Science in Aviation Studies Associate of Aviation Maintenance Technology
CAU Aircraft
CAU flight training students are trained on the University’s own fleet. The fleet currently consists of Cessna 172S, Cessna 150, Beechcraft Baron B55, Super Decathlon and Citabria in fixed-wing aircraft. The University also has Robinson R22 and Robinson R44 for rotorcraft-pursuing students.
California Aeronautical University takes pride in keeping its student-to-aircraft ratio at an appropriate level so students can begin flying in their first term of school and have aircraft available for their progression in the program.
Cessna 172 G1000
The ultimate training aircraft, students in the CAU Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics program begin their pilot training in the four-seat, 180-horsepower Cessna Skyhawk. The flight deck is powered by the Garmin G1000 avionics suite.
Seminole
The Piper Seminole is a twin-engine, low-wing light aircraft built by Piper Aircraft that serves as a gold-standard trainer for multi-engine flight
Decathalon
The Decathlon is a 2-place, tandem seating, high wing, single engine airplane and is equipped with conventional landing gear. This airplane is certificated in the normal and acrobatic categories.
Choose Your Next Step
Whether you're just starting to explore aviation or you're ready to begin your journey at California Aeronautical University, we have a path for you. Select the option that best fits where you are in your decision process:
Apply Online
Start your application to California Aeronautical University. Applying is the first step in the admissions process. Once submitted, you’ll receive instructions for completing the remaining requirements.
Schedule Admissions Meeting
Admissions representatives are available to answer questions, clarify requirements, and provide guidance at any point in the process. Meetings are optional and not required prior to applying.
Attend Open House
Visit a CAU campus, tour facilities, and see what student life looks like firsthand. Open Houses are scheduled on Saturdays at each of our four locations, every other month.
Request Information
Receive program details, timelines, and general information to help you determine whether CAU aligns with your interests.
Attend Aspiring Pilot Seminar
Learn about aviation careers, training pathways, and how to compare programs before deciding what’s right for you.
Download Pilot Guide
This free, student‑friendly guide outlines what it takes to go from your first discovery flight to launching a career in aviation. If you’re exploring the path to becoming a pilot and want a clear overview before taking next steps, this is a great place to begin..
Flight Training Devices
In addition to training with CAU aircraft, students can also receive training on flight simulators. These simulators enhance the learning experience and can provide course-specific, cost-efficient training to students year-round.
Redbird MCX 172 Configuration Dual Control Motion
The MCX flight training device comes with a dual yoke, dual rudders, full motion, and Garmin G-1000 cockpit, which provides enhanced training for our students. The dual controls allow both the instructor and/or co-pilot to demonstrate maneuvers from the right seat during the professional pilot program. The dual yoke and dual rudder pedals also allow for simultaneous control from both the left and right seats.
Redbird SD 172 Configuration Single Control
The SD is a fully enclosed flight training device with a Garmin G-1000 cockpit that provides a realistic training environment. The SD features a single yoke and single rudder simulator, along with a full enclosure, which creates an ideal training platform for standard flight training as well as instrument flight training.
Aviation Program Options
- 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
Keeping a fleet of aircraft running like clockwork requires qualified professionals with the training, skill and passion for aircraft maintenance.
- Learn the skills to diagnose, repair, and maintain aircraft
- Duration: 17-22 months (approximate)
- On-campus student housing available
- Graduates receive Sonic Tools toolkit, valued at $6,000
The online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management prepares students to understand how aviation organizations operate. The program focuses on aviation operations, safety, and leadership, making it an ideal choice for students interested in managing the operational side of aviation—beyond the cockpit.
This aviation management degree online is designed for careers supporting airports, airlines, and aviation‑related organizations.
The Master of Aviation Science (MAS) is an advanced online aviation degree designed for students seeking graduate‑level aviation knowledge. This program focuses on leadership and decision‑making within airline operations, airport management, logistics, and transportation safety.
Now Is The Perfect Time To Apply!