Tuskegee University Revives Flight Training After Decades

For the first time since 1946, flight training has resumed at Tuskegee University through a partnership with LIFT Academy. LIFT has teamed up with Tuskegee University, the city of Tuskegee, Alabama, and Macon County to base the training center at the storied Moton Field, where the pioneering Tuskegee Airmen received flight training before becoming the first African American military aviators during World War II. The first class of LIFT Academy students at Tuskegee has begun their training.

With the training program underway, Titus Sanders, Aviation Science Program Director at Tuskegee University, says that students can expect to finish their flight training in as few as three years as part of the four-year academic program.

“We currently have 15 students enrolled in the program, but I expect that number to grow exponentially when we launch the first freshman cohort this fall,” said Titus. “There is a lot of national interest in the program, which will provide a pipeline of diverse candidates to the aviation industry and military. The goal is to restore Tuskegee as the premier training center for minority pilots in America.”

The unique program is designed to provide students with two significant certifications — a bachelor’s degree in aviation science from Tuskegee University and a commercial multi-engine pilot license through LIFT Academy. In addition to the certifications, Titus and his team are working on partnerships to supplement the flight training and academic program.

“The Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals is launching a collegiate chapter at Tuskegee, so there will be opportunities for our students to engage in mentorships through the chapter,” said Titus. “We’re also working with the FAA and other organizations on internship opportunities for students in the Aviation Science Program. In fact, we have a number of alumni who are willing to facilitate mentorships students as well.”

Tuskegee University and LIFT are committed to making flight training attainable and affordable by offsetting some of the flight training fees through aviation scholarships; however, the program is highly competitive.

“For those interested in the program, I would advise students to have their academics in order. Academic success is at the top of the list for consideration into the program,” he said. “We also value community service and a passion for aviation. Applicants should make sure they’re the most competitive applicant for the program, because there are limited positions and limited slots.”

Upon completion of the program, 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.