Flight Training Returns to Sarasota This March

ATP Flight School is reopening its airline pilot training center at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) this March. After closing due to damage caused by Hurricane Ian, the facility has been restored, allowing ATP to once again bring its Airline Career Pilot Program and professional flight training resources to the Sarasota community.

The Sarasota location joins ATP’s extensive network of 80-plus training centers nationwide, including 9 across Florida, strategically positioned to meet the rising demand for airline pilots. With industry forecasts indicating a cumulative shortage of 28,126 pilots by 2030 (according to NACA) and over 17,000 retirements projected by the end of the decade, this reopening provides a timely opportunity for career-focused students in the region.

Through the Airline Career Pilot Program, ATP offers an accelerated pathway to the airlines, taking students from zero experience to airline pilot in just two and a half years. Graduates benefit from 38 airline hiring partnerships, including pathways to every major airline, access to cadet programs, and up to $17,500 in airline-sponsored tuition reimbursement. Classes start every Monday, enabling students to begin their training without delay.

ATP Flight School has 135 Cessna Skyhawks on order through 2027. A variety of our professionally maintained aircraft will be available to fly at its Sarasota training center, with March class dates now being scheduled.

The reopening of the Sarasota training center is part of ATP’s larger effort to support the increasing demand for airline pilots. In addition to expanding access through new facilities, ATP is taking delivery of 54 new Cessna Skyhawks through 2025 and over 135 total by 2027.

ATP Flight School is now scheduling March class dates at the Sarasota location.