Common Misconceptions About Flight Training Schools

Most people know what flight schools are like — at least, they think they do. The truth is there are a lot of things people either don’t know or incorrectly assume about them. To dispel any myths and talk about the realities of LIFT Academy’s flight training program, we sat down with Emily Parrott, Manager of Admissions and Recruitment at LIFT.

1. MISCONCEPTION: You Need a Degree or Previous Flight Experience
   Many people believe that pilots need a four-year degree in order to fly for an airline, and historically, that was the case. In today’s world, the only requirement is a Commercial Pilot’s License — which is where we come in.

   “Back in the day, if you wanted to be a pilot you had to get a degree or go through the military,” said Emily. “Now there are many more accessible paths.”

   One of the other most common misconceptions is that you need previous flight experience in order to enroll at LIFT. In actuality, you don’t need any experience whatsoever.

   “We teach you everything you need to know right here,” said Emily. “Of course, it helps if you have previous experience, but it’s not at all required.”

2. MISCONCEPTION: It Takes a Long Time
   For those unfamiliar, you may assume flight training takes as long as earning a four-year degree program, if not longer. At LIFT, however, it only takes 12-18 months on average to graduate.

   “It’s a full-time, fast-paced program,” said Emily. “The curriculum is structured to prepare students thoroughly and efficiently.”

   LIFT graduates have the opportunity to make the most of their time here and earn while they learn. By becoming a Certificated Flight Instructor, you can get paid while building the flight hours necessary to become a First Officer.

3. MISCONCEPTION: There Aren’t Financing Options
   During the admissions process, our team discusses exactly what training costs, what’s included and what resources are available. Like four-year colleges, LIFT has financial partners that can help students with their loans.

   “Finances shouldn’t be a barrier to entry,” said Emily. “Those financial partnerships give many students the opportunity to pursue their passion.”

   Flight training is an investment in your future. What it costs upfront can be offset by what you’ll earn down the road as a pilot. According to a 2023 study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage for commercial pilots is approximately $113k. While that number isn’t a guarantee, it’s a good starting point when planning for your future and potential loan payments.

4. MISCONCEPTION: Pilots Have Poor Work/Life Balance
   One of the biggest stereotypes about pilots is that they’re never home. While this can be true for pilots flying international or cargo routes, regional airlines — such as Republic Airways — offer much more flexibility.

   From day one, our students are trained for a career with Republic, because LIFT Academy is owned by Republic Airways Holdings Inc. Their work rules prioritize the quality of life and work/life balance of their pilots, making it a great place to work.

   “Republic does a great job of creating flexible schedules and giving pilots the chance to be home,” said Emily. “At Republic, pilots are guaranteed at least twelve days off each month.”

5. MISCONCEPTION: It’s Hard to Know Where to Start
   LIFT makes getting your start, or at the very least testing the waters, easy. Booking a discovery flight with us is a great way to gauge interest for anyone with little or no flight experience.

   “Discovery flights are perfect for anyone curious about becoming a pilot,” said Emily. “You’ll have no doubts if this is right for you after going on one.”

   After that, if you’re still interested — and we think you will be — you should schedule an exploratory session. During that call, our recruiting team will answer any questions you may still have.

   “Exploratory sessions are so important,” said Emily. “That’s our chance to make sure that you’re the right fit for us and that we’re the right fit for you.”

Now that you know what flight training school is really like, let’s talk.

Schedule an exploratory session or discovery flight with LIFT Academy.