Does the GI Bill Pay for Part 61 Flight Training?

The GI Bill offers significant educational and training benefits for veterans. For those pursuing aviation careers, understanding how these benefits apply to flight instruction is important. Part 61 flight training, defined by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, provides a flexible, individualized instruction approach, differing from more structured Part 141 programs. This article clarifies the conditions under which GI Bill benefits can be used for Part 61 flight training, guiding veterans through the process and outlining financial considerations.

GI Bill Eligibility and Covered Flight Training

Veterans generally qualify for GI Bill benefits for flight training if they are eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill or the Montgomery GI Bill. A fundamental requirement is that the individual must already possess a Private Pilot’s License (PPL) and a valid second-class medical certificate, or a first-class medical certificate if pursuing an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. This prerequisite ensures the training supports a professional vocational objective, not recreational flying.

The GI Bill primarily supports programs leading to a vocational objective, such as a commercial pilot, flight instructor, or other advanced ratings. The initial Private Pilot’s License is typically not covered unless it is an integral part of an approved degree program at a college or university. Part 61 training can be covered, but generally only if it is offered by an institution that also holds Part 141 approval and the specific Part 61 program is recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as part of a vocational objective.

The VA’s preference for Part 141 programs stems from their FAA-approved, structured curriculum and regular inspections. These often lead to lower minimum flight hour requirements for certification compared to Part 61. However, Part 61 training may still be eligible if integrated into a VA-approved Part 141 school’s offerings and leads to specific ratings beyond the PPL. Covered training often includes Instrument Ratings, Commercial Pilot Certificates, Multi-Engine Ratings, and Flight Instructor Certificates. The flight school itself must be VA-approved for flight training.

Finding and Enrolling in VA-Approved Programs

After understanding the eligibility requirements and covered flight training types, the next step is identifying VA-approved flight schools. Veterans can use resources such as the VA’s Web Enabled Approval Management System (WEAMS) database or the GI Bill Comparison Tool to locate approved institutions. These online tools provide valuable information about a school’s VA approval status and eligible programs.

It is important to verify that a school’s flight training programs, particularly any Part 61 offerings, are explicitly recognized by the VA as leading to a vocational objective. Direct communication with the flight school is crucial to confirm their VA approval status for flight training and to understand which specific Part 61 courses are covered. Prospective students should also inquire about the school’s process for VA enrollment certification and any student requirements for their VA-approved programs.

Before the VA application process begins, the flight school may require specific documentation. This can include proof of previously obtained flight certificates, such as the Private Pilot’s License, and a current FAA medical certificate. Meeting these upfront requirements streamlines the enrollment process.

Applying for GI Bill Benefits

Once a veteran has confirmed eligibility and enrolled in a VA-approved flight program, the next step involves formally applying for GI Bill benefits. The primary method for submitting an application to the VA for education benefits is through VA.gov. Veterans typically complete VA Form 22-1990, “Application for VA Education Benefits.” If a dependent is applying using transferred benefits, VA Form 22-1990e is used.

After submitting the application, the VA processes it and, if approved, issues a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This document confirms the veteran’s eligibility for benefits and outlines specific entitlements. The COE is a document that the veteran will need to provide to their chosen flight school.

The school’s Certifying Official (SCO) plays a central role in the process. The SCO is responsible for certifying the veteran’s enrollment to the VA, confirming that the student is pursuing an approved program of study. The timeline for processing applications and receiving the COE typically ranges from 30 days to several weeks. Payments from the VA usually begin after the school submits the initial enrollment certification.

Specific Costs Covered and Not Covered

The GI Bill provides financial support for approved flight training programs, but the scope of coverage has specific limitations. For approved programs, the GI Bill generally pays for tuition and certain fees directly to the flight school. Under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, for vocational flight training not part of a degree program, there is an annual cap on the amount reimbursed, which varies by academic year. For instance, the cap for the 2025-2026 academic year for vocational flight training can be up to approximately $17,097.67. If enrolled in a degree program at a public institution, the VA may cover in-state tuition and fees, while private institutions might have a higher annual cap on tuition and fees, such as approximately $29,920.95 for the 2025-2026 academic year.

In addition to tuition and fees, the Post-9/11 GI Bill may provide a monthly housing allowance (MHA) and a book and supply stipend. However, for vocational flight training programs, the MHA is often not provided, or if it is, it might be based on training time and location. The book stipend is a set amount, typically up to $1,000 per academic year. For those using the Montgomery GI Bill, the VA typically reimburses 60% of the approved flight training costs, with the student paying the school directly. This reimbursement is often paid monthly to the student.

It is important to understand what the GI Bill typically does not cover. The initial Private Pilot’s License is generally excluded from coverage if it is the first aviation certificate sought and not part of a broader degree program. Additionally, costs for FAA medical exams, FAA knowledge test fees, and FAA checkride (practical exam) fees are usually not covered, unless they are explicitly integrated into the approved tuition and fees by the VA. Recreational flying is also not eligible for GI Bill benefits. Veterans should discuss a detailed breakdown of costs with their chosen VA-approved flight school and the school’s Certifying Official to understand any potential out-of-pocket expenses.