Leadership in Flight Training Academy (LIFT) – a flight school committed to providing affordable training for aspiring aviation professionals of all backgrounds – joined in partnership with Tuskegee University to establish the first-ever Tuskegee University Flight School.

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Through this collaboration, students at Tuskegee University have the opportunity to enroll in a comprehensive course that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on flight training. Upon finishing the 4-year program, students acquire a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Science from Tuskegee University and a private pilot license, having completed 120 credit hours.

Tuskegee University Flight School will also offer an 18-month Certificate Curriculum tailored for non-degree students. This program, requiring up to 39 credit hours, enables individuals outside of Tuskegee University to access the necessary training for a career in aviation.

“Alabama has a long history of providing critical flight training for military aviators, and historic Moton Field is the perfect location for a training center for a new generation of commercial pilots,” Governor Kay Ivey said. “LIFT Academy is an ideal way to build on the legacy of the Tuskegee Airman by creating solid career opportunities for tomorrow’s pilots.”

“We are excited to grow our aviation community in Alabama. This expansion is possible due to Governor Ivey’s strong leadership in workforce development, which is bringing significant opportunities for aviation education and training and creating new jobs throughout the state,” said Matt Koscal, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, Republic Airways Holdings Inc. “By joining forces with Tuskegee University and its esteemed heritage, we are honored to enable opportunity and shape the next generation of commercial pilots.”

“Tuskegee University is proud to continue a tradition that has contributed so much to the country through the courage and skills provided by the Tuskegee Airmen. A new generation of Tuskegee airmen and women will have the training they will need to serve our country through the military or as commercial pilots,” said Dr. Charlotte P. Morris, President of Tuskegee University. “What pleases me most is the enthusiasm with which we see young students ready to step up today to become such an important part of history. The new partnership with LIFT and Republic will build leaders and legacies.”

To kick off the partnership between the two organizations, LIFT Academy and Tuskegee University hosted a joint press conference at Moton Field Municipal Airport in Tuskegee, Alabama. The event featured keynote speakers including Alabama Governor Kay Ivey; Lawrence Haygood, Mayor of Tuskegee; Dr. Charlotte P. Morris, President of Tuskegee University; Joe Turnham, Director of the Macon County Economic Development Board; and Matt Koscal, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Republic Airways Holdings Inc. where speakers remarked on the opportunities the union of organizations presents for future generations of pilots and the aviation industry.

Continuing the goal of expanding access to opportunities in the aviation sector, LIFT Academy, founded by Republic Airways Holdings Inc., has previously established partnerships with other universities, such as Indiana Wesleyan University, Purdue University Global and Ivy Tech Community College. These collaborations integrate LIFT Academy flight training with the academic curriculum offered at the university, enabling students to pursue bachelor's and associate degrees in aviation science while also pursuing commercial pilot licenses. Upon graduation, program alumni have a clear pathway to advance from their studies to a full-time career in the skies with Republic Airways.

About LIFT Academy

Leadership In Flight Training (LIFT) Academy is a U.S.-based commercial aviation pilot training school founded by Republic Airways Holdings Inc. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, LIFT revolutionizes commercial aviation training, utilizing state-of-the-art, eco-friendly training technologies and systems to educate future aviators. Students receive instruction from experienced pilots under FAA and industry standards with the most advanced equipment and curriculum that combines flight, flight simulator, online and in-classroom training. LIFT Academy students train on a fleet of advanced new aircraft and flight simulators produced by Diamond Aircraft Industries, including the DA40 single-engine, the DA42 twin-engine aircraft and the DA20 single-engine, as well as Diamond Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTD) built to achieve the most realistic cockpit simulation environment. LIFT offers its graduates a defined pathway to a pilot career at Republic Airways. Learn more at https://flywithlift.com/.

About Tuskegee University

Founded in 1881, Tuskegee University is a historically black university located in Tuskegee, Alabama. Known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, research, and service, Tuskegee University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as science, engineering, business, and the arts. With a longstanding commitment to providing students with a quality education and preparing them for leadership roles in their respective fields, Tuskegee University continues to be a beacon of educational opportunity and cultural significance. Learn more at https://www.tuskegee.edu/.

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