2024 Year in Review: A Letter from Ed Bagden, Director of Operations and Academic Programs

As 2024 draws to a close, we at LIFT Academy are proud to reflect on a year defined by growth, progress, and the pursuit of excellence. This year, we’ve continued to expand opportunities for aspiring aviators while investing in the resources and partnerships that ensure every student has the support they need to succeed.

One highlight of 2024 was the launch of a new partnership with Tuskegee University, establishing a training program at the historic Moton Field in Tuskegee, Alabama. This collaboration not only extends our reach but also honors the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, furthering our mission to make aviation training more accessible and impactful.

In addition to this exciting milestone, we welcomed 385 new students into the LIFT Academy program, while celebrating the achievements of 90 graduates who have completed their training and are now embarking on the next stage of their aviation careers.

Throughout the year, our students and instructors have logged over 83,000 flight hours and 19,000 simulator hours as of December 10—and those numbers continue to grow. These figures reflect the extensive opportunities we provide for hands-on learning and skill-building, ensuring students gain the practical experience they need to excel as professional pilots. By combining robust flight schedules with state-of-the-art simulators, we create an environment where students can continuously refine their skills and build the confidence required for a successful aviation career.

We’ve also continued to invest in tools and infrastructure to enhance the learning experience. Our fleet now includes 75 aircraft, and we’ve expanded our simulator fleet to 13 devices, ensuring every student has access to the cutting-edge resources they need to thrive.

At LIFT Academy, we’re incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made this year and remain committed to building a culture of excellence and opportunity. Whether you’re considering a career in aviation or simply curious about the world of flight training, we invite you to learn more about what makes LIFT Academy unique.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of 2024, we also look ahead with excitement and determination to the opportunities that lie ahead in 2025. From all of us at LIFT Academy, we wish you a joyful holiday season filled with peace, friends, and family. Thank you for being part of our journey.