Flight School Options in Illinois

While there are many good programs in Illinois from which to choose, we highlighted seven for their variety of offerings to meet the different objectives of aspiring pilots. Let’s explore why students pursue their dreams of obtaining their pilot certifications in the Land of Lincoln.

Best for: All-around flight training program

Lewis University provides a traditional collegiate experience while embodying the technical school feel. The College of Aviation, Science and Technology offers a variety of bachelor’s and master’s programs for aspiring aviators. Firsthand learning and practical experiences are integral to the education at Lewis University, featuring simulations, clinical practices, research projects in partnership with corporations, and team competitions. Additionally, the university has its own Lewis University Airport (KLOT) and Harold E. White Aviation Center located just southwest of Chicago, allowing students to seamlessly transition between ground school and flight instruction without any commute time.

Explore Lewis University’s professional pilot certificate program through FLYING’s Flight School Guide.

Best for: Modern flight training program

Southern Illinois University provides a traditional college experience while focusing on its students’ aviation development. The university’s School of Aviation offers a range of associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs for aspiring pilots. The modern, state-of-the-art Transportation Education Center is located at Southern Illinois Airport (KMDH), just a 15-minute drive from the main campus. Aviation students take most of their classes and accumulate flight hours at this facility.

Explore Southern Illinois University’s professional pilot certificate program through FLYING’s Flight School Guide.

Best for: Personalized flight training program

Quincy University is an independent Catholic liberal arts institution that offers a comprehensive aviation flight program. With a low student-to-instructor ratio, flight students receive personalized training while enjoying various traditional college experiences. The university provides several bachelor’s degree programs in aviation through its School of Science & Technology and a partnership with Jet Access Flight Training. Flight instruction occurs at Quincy Regional Airport (KUIN), just a 15-minute drive from the main campus.

Explore Quincy University’s professional pilot certificate program through FLYING’s Flight School Guide.

Best for: Workforce-ready flight training program

Parkland College is a public community college that offers a workforce-ready associate degree in aviation. Upon graduation, students can transfer to one of Parkland’s partner schools to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Partner institutions include Western Michigan University, Lewis University, and the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. The college’s Institute of Aviation is an FAA-approved Part 141 pilot school, with flight operations conducted at Willard Airport (KCMI), a 20-minute drive from the main campus.

Explore Parkland College’s professional pilot certificate program through FLYING’s Flight School Guide.

Best for: Flexible flight training program

Southwestern Illinois College is a public community college that offers flexible learning options, including day, evening, and online classes, to suit busy schedules. The college’s Technical Education and Workforce Development division provides an associate degree in aviation. Flight training is available in partnership with Ideal Aviation and takes place at St. Louis Downtown Airport (KCPS), just a 25-minute drive from the main campus. Additionally, Southwestern Illinois College offers a partnership with Southern Illinois University for a seamless continuation of education and training toward a bachelor’s degree and the added benefit of a restricted airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate.

Explore Southwestern Illinois College’s professional pilot certificate program through FLYING’s Flight School Guide.

Best for: Affordable flight training program

Illinois Aviation Academy (IAA) is a flight school and flight services company that offers a comprehensive range of aviation-related amenities. IAA has received numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Flight School and Distinguished Flight Instructor awards. It  takes pride in providing personalized training at affordable prices.

In addition to flight training, IAA offers complete corporate aviation services, aircraft management, financial assistance, aircraft maintenance, access to simulators, airplane storage, and support for aircraft sales. IAA operates out of DuPage Airport (KDPA) and has a satellite location at DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport (KDKB).

Best for: Accelerated flight training program

ATP Flight School is the largest flight training establishment in the U.S. ATP’s nationwide network of 81 training centers in 33 states allows for more efficient scheduling and instructor and examiner availability. The flight school’s Airline Career Pilot Program is one of the fastest professional pilot curricula in the country, with a completion time of as little as nine months, depending on previous experience. ATP’s Chicago-based flight schools are at DuPage Airport (DPA) and Chicago Executive Airport (PWK).

Explore ATP Flight School’s professional pilot certificate program through FLYING’s Flight School Guide.

Illinois offers a unique set of advantages for flight training that can be highly beneficial for aspiring pilots.

Illinois’ weather offers various flying conditions, from clear skies to challenging winter settings. Training in diverse weather helps pilots build confidence and adaptability, which are essential for a successful flying career.

Illinois is home to major airports, like O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport in Chicago. Training near these busy airports gives students valuable experience managing high-traffic airspace and communicating with air traffic control (ATC).

Illinois offers a substantial selection of high-quality flight schools featuring experienced instructors and is more affordable than other regions in the United States. Notable institutions like Lewis University and Southern Illinois University have well-respected aviation programs that attract students nationwide.

Illinois has a strong aviation community that offers students numerous networking opportunities through FBOs, events, and industry connections. These help students build valuable relationships to assist them in their future careers.

Illinois’ combination of robust aviation activity, diverse weather conditions, and extensive airspace creates an exceptional environment for aspiring pilots to obtain the experience needed to thrive in the aviation field.

We hope you enjoyed this list of the best flight schools in Illinois and look forward to seeing you soon for your first flight in the Land of Lincoln skies.

How much does it cost to go to flight school in Illinois?

The cost of attending flight school in Illinois varies by institution type. A dedicated one-to-two-year flight school may cost around $90,000, while a four-year university could cost up to $200,000.

How long does it take to become a pilot in Illinois?

The time required to become a pilot in Illinois varies based on the program and institution chosen. A dedicated flight school typically takes one to two years, whereas a university program may take up to four years.

What GPA do you need for flight school?

The FAA does not have a GPA requirement to attend flight school. However, some accredited institutions, like colleges and universities, may have GPA enrollment requirements that must be met to be accepted into the particular institution and/or flight training program.

Do any airlines pay for flight school?

Most airlines do not pay for flight school costs upfront. However, many airlines partner with flight schools to offer tuition reimbursement programs, where airlines cover a portion of training costs after students complete their education and meet specific employment conditions.

What is the average total cost of flight school?

The average total cost of attending flight school varies by institution type. In Illinois, a dedicated one-to-two-year flight school may cost around $90,000, while a four-year university could cost up to $200,000.

How much are pilots paid?

Pilot salaries vary widely based on factors like experience, the airline or operator they work for, and the type of aircraft they fly. Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2023 median pay for airline and commercial pilots was $171,210 per year.