Tuskegee University Flight School Opens

In a significant step forward for aviation education in Alabama, Leadership in Flight Training Academy (LIFT) and Tuskegee University have unveiled the inaugural Tuskegee University Flight School. This marks a pioneering collaboration aimed at fostering a new generation of aviation professionals.

The newly established flight school is set to offer a comprehensive 4-year Bachelor's degree program in Aviation Science, allowing students to graduate with both a degree and a private pilot license after completing 120 credit hours of combined classroom and hands-on flight training. Additionally, the school will introduce an 18-month Certificate Curriculum specifically designed for non-degree seekers, requiring up to 39 credit hours. This program aims to make aviation training accessible to a broader audience, beyond the current university students.

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey highlighted the historical significance of Moton Field--the training ground of the original Tuskegee Airmen--as the chosen location for this initiative. "LIFT Academy is an ideal way to build on the legacy of the Tuskegee Airman by creating solid career opportunities for tomorrow's pilots," Governor Ivey remarked.

Dr. Charlotte P. Morris, President of Tuskegee University, expressed pride in continuing the storied tradition of the Tuskegee Airmen. She noted the enthusiasm of new students eager to become part of this important historical narrative and their future roles either in military or commercial aviation.

Matt Koscal, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Republic Airways Holdings Inc., acknowledged the critical support of Governor Ivey's workforce development efforts that made this collaboration possible. "By joining forces with Tuskegee University and its esteemed heritage, we are honored to enable opportunity and shape the next generation of commercial pilots," Koscal stated.

The partnership was officially launched at a joint press conference held at Moton Field Municipal Airport, featuring a lineup of distinguished speakers from the political, educational, and corporate spheres. This initiative is part of a broader effort by LIFT Academy, which has previously partnered with several universities to integrate flight training into academic curriculums, ensuring students have clear pathways from education to employment in aviation.

FMI: Tuskegee.edu