Veterans’ Flight Training Benefits Under Threat

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has joined forces with 12 other aviation organizations to voice strong opposition to House Resolution (H.R.) 7323, the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act of 2024. This bill proposes a lifetime cap of $115,749 on flight training benefits, which will take effect in the 2025-2026 academic year. While this cap exceeds the previously proposed $108,480 limit, it still imposes significant restrictions on the financial support available to veterans pursuing aviation careers.

In a letter addressed to House Speaker Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA-4) and Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-8), the coalition highlighted the critical role veterans play in the aviation industry, which contributes over 7% to the U.S. GDP and provides more than 11.5 million jobs. “The aviation sector is in dire need of qualified pilots, and veterans are among the best candidates to fill this demand,” the letter stated.

The letter emphasized that limiting benefits through a cap would hinder veterans’ access to vital career opportunities, especially as the industry grapples with a growing pilot shortage. The coalition pointed out that high costs often deter individuals from seeking flight training through civilian programs. Insufficient benefits would force veterans to incur significant personal debt or forgo flight training altogether.

Additionally, the letter criticized the bill for imposing “unfair and discriminatory” funding caps on veterans pursuing aviation careers—caps that do not apply to those seeking degrees or training in other fields.

“We remain committed to working with Congress to ensure that veterans can access the benefits they were promised, allowing them to pursue careers in aviation without financial obstacles,” the letter concluded. The coalition urged lawmakers to remove the cap on flight training benefits in H.R. 7323, ensuring veterans can fully utilize their GI Bill benefits for rewarding and essential careers.

Other aviation organizations joining NBAA in this initiative include the Air Medical Operators Association, Airborne Public Safety Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Airlines for America, American Association of Airport Executives, Experimental Aircraft Association, General Aviation Manufacturers Association, National Air Carrier Association, National Air Transportation Association, National Association of State Aviation Officials, Regional Airline Association, and Vertical Aviation International.