Flight School Options in Wisconsin

EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh is among the largest aviation exhibitions in the country. And in keeping with the annual airshow’s emphasis on homebuilt and pilot-owned aircraft, it is no surprise that the Badger State has a high number of private pilots per capita.

Although Wisconsin may not have as many accredited aviation programs as other states, it does have several dedicated and reputable flight schools. While there are many good programs in Wisconsin from which to choose, we highlighted seven for their variety of offerings to meet the different objectives of aspiring pilots. Let’s explore some of them and get you into the skies as soon as possible.

Best for: All-around Wisconsin flight school

For pilots aspiring to learn to fly at one of the nation’s most renowned airports, look no further than Fox Valley Technical College. Student pilots can unleash full throttle on the runways of Oshkosh’s Wittman Regional Airport (KOSH) at one of Wisconsin’s leading Part 141 flight schools. Fox Valley Technical College students receive a comprehensive education in a small, close-knit environment while earning their associate degree in aviation.

Explore Fox Valley Technical College’s professional pilot certification program through FLYING’s Flight School Guide.

Best for: Innovative Wisconsin flight school

Gateway Technical College is an excellent choice for students seeking an affordable institution offering innovative technology. The college takes pride in having the latest advancements that better prepare its students for full-time careers in aviation. Because of its exceptional culture, many graduates continue as flight instructors after completing their programs. Flight training takes place at the Kenosha Regional Airport (KENW).

Explore Gateway Technical College’s professional pilot certification program through FLYING’s Flight School Guide.

Best for: Accelerated Wisconsin flight school

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 programs in the country, with a completion time of as little as nine months, depending on prior experience. ATP’s Milwaukee Flight School is located at Waukesha County Airport (KUES).

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

Best for: Budget-friendly Wisconsin flight schools

Cub Air Flight offers one of Wisconsin's most budget-friendly flight school options. Its motto, "Old school is still cool," emphasizes a relaxed and enjoyable flight training experience. Students can begin their journey in a classic Piper J-3 Cub at Hartford Municipal Airport (KHXF) while working toward their tailwheel endorsement. Due to its minimalist cockpit design, flying the Cub instills foundational safe flying skills and enhances students' awareness of their aircraft and environment.

Best for: Flexible Wisconsin flight school

Superior Flying Services is an excellent option for pilots seeking a flexible flight school that can customize training to their specific needs. Operating out of Richard I. Bong Memorial Airport (KSUW), Superior Flying Services offers a no-pressure, self-paced learning environment with top-level instruction. The company is also recognized for its outstanding aircraft rentals, fuel services, full-service amenities, hangar spaces, and more.

Best for: Workforce-ready Wisconsin flight school

Located between Madison and Milwaukee at Watertown Municipal Airport (KRYV), Wisconsin Aviation is a full-service FBO offering flight training. Wisconsin Aviation has a Professional Aeronautics Certificate (PAC) course through Madison Area Technical College that takes students from zero time to commercial pilot status in just under two years. At Wisconsin Aviation, students can fly the Cirrus SR20, which teaches them the latest technology while increasing their crew resource management skills. These skills translate effectively to a workforce-ready career in aviation.

Best for: Established Wisconsin flight school

Pilotsmith is an established flight school with three locations in Wisconsin. At Pilotsmith, each pilot can choose one of several different paths to get behind the controls of an aircraft and build time for a rewarding aviation career. Pilotsmith has one of the most current and technologically advanced fleets of Cirrus aircraft and utilizes Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilots to conduct training.

Wisconsin has over 50 flight schools. However, due to the state’s weather-shortened flight season, only a few colleges offer aviation programs, including Fox Valley Technical College and Gateway Technical College.

While flight training at Wisconsin flight schools takes place in one-on-one settings, some locations offer ground school curriculums in classrooms with an average of 15-20 students per instructor. However, as virtual classrooms grow in popularity, the number of students per class in Wisconsin continues to fluctuate.

Many factors affect the cost of flight training in Wisconsin. For example, obtaining a private pilot certificate at a dedicated flight school like Wisconsin Aviation can cost around $25,000. A two-year aviation degree with all available licenses and ratings from an institution like Fox Valley Technical College can total approximately $100,000.

Federal and private student loans are available for students enrolled in accredited aviation programs at colleges such as Gateway Technical College. For those who choose to attend a dedicated flight school not affiliated with a university or college, like ATP Flight School, only private loans are available to cover the costs of flight school expenses.

Many Wisconsin-based and national organizations offer scholarships to help students finance their flight training. While scholarships usually come with specific application requirements, they can significantly reduce the financial burden of attending flight school.

While most flight schools in Wisconsin do not have job placement opportunities, some accredited institutions have high employment rates for graduates, with companies like Air Wisconsin and SkyWest Airlines.

While Wisconsin may not offer as many aviation programs through accredited institutions as other states, it does have many dedicated and reputable flight schools. Pilots who get their pilot’s certificates in the Badger State can enjoy job placements anywhere in the country. If you’re ready to begin your flying journey, FLYING has partnered with Flycore to provide a flight school matching service. Visit its website today and take your training to the next level.

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

Many factors affect the cost of flight training in Wisconsin. For example, obtaining a private pilot certificate at a dedicated flight school like Wisconsin Aviation can cost around $25,000. A two-year aviation degree with all available licenses and ratings from an institution like Fox Valley Technical College can total approximately $100,000.

Is it financially worth it to become a pilot?

Yes, it is financially worth it to become a pilot. Although the immediate cost of obtaining licenses and ratings can be costly, the long-term benefits of a pilot’s salary can help individuals promptly repay their flight training debt. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for airline and commercial pilots in 2023 was $171,210 per year.

How to become a pilot in Wisconsin?

Becoming a pilot in Wisconsin is like anywhere else in the country since flight schools must follow the same FAA regulations. The FAA website outlines the steps to becoming a pilot. Additionally, scheduling a discovery flight with a potential flight school can be a fantastic way to explore the skies for the first time.

Are any airlines paying for flight school?

Generally, airlines do not cover flight school costs upfront. However, several airlines partner with specific flight schools to offer tuition reimbursement programs that partially subsidize training expenses after students complete their education and meet specific employment requirements.

What is the average total cost of flight school?

The average cost of flight school varies based on the institution type and the training location. In Wisconsin, for example, the total cost of flight school is approximately $100,000, which is lower than the national average.

Where do most airline pilots go to college?

Most airline pilots attend accredited colleges and universities with specialized aviation programs. However, in recent years, many airlines have dropped their requirement for a college degree, allowing pilots to secure airline jobs by simply attending dedicated flight schools without needing a bachelor’s or associate degree.