Flight School Options in Louisiana

In research of training options across the state, here are a few flight schools that stood out. When you’re ready to start training, check out these places for flight training in Louisiana.

As a certified Cessna Pilot Center and Part 141-approved school, Gulf Coast Aviation makes a big impression in the Louisiana flight training scene. With four locations across the state, Gulf Coast offers flight training solutions for hobbyists, aspiring professional pilots, international students, and veterans.

Locations: Gulf Coast has four. 

Tuition and fees:

The following rates are the minimum costs listed for each phase of flight training. These are based on a student flying the minimum hours required for each rating and using the least expensive aircraft available. Fees will be higher depending on the actual number of hours flown and the type of aircraft used.

Financial assistance: Yes. Financing options are available through Pilot Finance and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA).

Accreditation: Although Gulf Coast is not an accredited school, it partners with Liberty University to offer a Bachelor of Science in Aviation.

Program length:

Training offered: Private Pilot ASEL, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot ASEL, Multi-Engine Rating, Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI)

Fleet: Cessna 172, Piper Saratoga, Beechcraft Baron

Job placement: No.

Virtual learning: As a certified Cessna Pilot Center, virtual education is provided by Cessna and King Schools.

For aspiring pilots looking to earn a college degree while learning to fly, Louisiana Tech University is an excellent choice. In-state tuition, scholarship opportunities, and relatively low aircraft rental fees makes the school a more affordable option compared to other aviation colleges.

Location: Ruston Regional Airport (KRSN)

Tuition and fees: The cost of attendance varies, but students can expect to pay between $10,000 and $20,000 per school year before any scholarships or aid. Aircraft rental fees are charged separately with rates between $171 and $216 per flight hour.

Financial assistance: Yes. Scholarships and financial aid are available.

Accreditation: Yes. Louisiana Tech is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI).

Program length: This is a bachelor’s degree program designed to be completed in four years.

Training offered: Private Pilot ASEL, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot ASEL, Multi-Engine Rating, Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI), Certificated Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)

Fleet: Cessna Skyhawk, Piper Arrow

Job placement: Louisiana Tech has several partnerships that help connect students to jobs and internships after training. Its list of partners includes local FBOs, international and regional airlines, corporate aviation companies, and government organizations.

Virtual learning: Yes. Some courses are available online.

East of Baton Rouge, affordable and friendly training can be found at Fly By Knight. This school boasts low costs, a decent sized fleet, and a great online reputation. Redditors recommend Fly By Knight again and again in local flight training threads.

Location: Hammond Northshore Regional Airport (KHDC)

Tuition and fees:

The following estimates are based on completing training in the minimum required amount of flight time.

Financial assistance: Financing options are available.

Accreditation: No.

Program length: Total time to complete training will vary based on the student’s availability and progress. 

Training offered: Private Pilot ASEL, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot ASEL, Multi-Engine Rating, Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)

Fleet: Piper Warrior, Piper Seneca

Job placement: No.

Virtual learning: Virtual ground training can be completed through programs like Gold Seal or Sporty’s Pilot Shop.

Near Lafayette, the Aviation Academy of Louisiana provides extensive training for both airplane and helicopter pilots. From light sport pilot to rotorcraft instructor, there’s truly something for everyone. Rotorcraft training is available at its headquarters in New Iberia, and fixed wing training is offered at both locations.

Locations: Aviation Academy of Louisiana has locations at two airports.

Tuition and fees: Tuition information isn’t publicly available on the website. Discovery flights can be purchased for $100 in an airplane or $250 in a rotorcraft. Contact the school directly for current pricing information.

Financial assistance: Financing is available through Stratus Financial and AOPA Finance.

Accreditation: No.

Program length: Training timelines vary based on a student’s availability and progress.

Training offered: Aviation Academy of Louisiana offers multiple levels of rotorcraft and airplane training.

Rotorcraft:

Airplane:

Fleet: Cessna 162, Cessna 172, Piper Twin Comanche, Robinson R-44

Job placement: No.

Virtual learning: Online ground training can be completed through programs like Pilot Institute and Angle of Attack.

For professional training with a side of local sightseeing, New Orleans Aerial Tours and Flight Training is a must. Here you’ll find a long list of curated discovery flight experiences for the novice and a series of training programs for those advancing their flying careers.

Location: New Orleans Lakefront Airport (KNEW)

Tuition and fees: Prices start at $180 per hour of dual instruction. Total program costs are not publicly listed. Contact the school directly for details.

Financial assistance: No.

Accreditation: While this is not an accredited flight school, it does partner with Purdue Global online to offer university degrees in aviation. Flight training counts toward college credits.

Program length:

Training offered: Private Pilot ASEL, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot ASEL, Multi-Engine Rating, Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI), Certificated Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII), Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)

Fleet: Cessna 152, Cessna 172, Piper Archer, Piper Seneca

Job placement: No.

Virtual learning: Online ground training can be completed through programs like ASA and Altitude University.

When it comes to picking the right flight school, the volume of options can be overwhelming. The best way to narrow it down is to choose a few to tour and explore on a deeper level. Once you’ve had a tour and possibly a discovery flight, you’ll start to pick up on things you like and don’t like about the school. You’ll also have something to compare with when visiting other training centers.

To get a complete picture of what training will be like, be sure to do research. Read reviews, talk to current and recent students, and ask questions. A good school will be happy to provide all of the information you need to start flight training with confidence.

FAQ

How much does it cost to get a pilot's license in Louisiana?

On average, it costs between $8,000 and $12,000 to become a private pilot in Louisiana.

How to become a pilot in Louisiana?

The first step to becoming a pilot in Louisiana is to find a flight school. Look up a local training center and schedule a tour or discovery flight. 

What GPA do you need for flight school?

Flight training at most flight schools doesn’t require any GPA information.

Will airlines pay for flight school?

While some airlines do reimburse their cadets for portions of training, most do not cover the cost of flight school.