Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP)
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that as a prerequisite to flight training, non-US citizens must provide personal information, documentation and specific training requests prior to beginning flight training. Training may only commence following approval of your application, completion of fingerprinting (may be done upon arrival with a Certified Flight Instructor) and a payment of $130 to AFSP. This process may be completed prior to arriving in the States or if you are already in the country.
Before beginning the AFSP process, please contact our offices to discuss your training intentions. You may call 727-461-5229 or email [email protected]
Helpful instructions to complete the application process
Instructions to complete the application process
1. Visit the TSA website at www.flightschoolcandidates.gov
2. In the top right of the screen click on Create New Student Account
3. Fill out and submit the brief application to create a new account. The TSA will then provide you with a user ID and a password (sent to your personal e-mail address).
4. Return to the website and enter your user ID and Password. Complete the AFSP Foreign Student Application. (9-10 pages).
A.Course ID#: Private Pilot (PVT101), Instrument Rating (IFR201)
B. Class Name: Choose your course from the pull-down list.
Private Pilot is listed as Initial.
Applications are not required for Commercial Single-Engine or ATP.
C. Aircraft Type: Private Pilot and Instrument Rating
Helicopter - Robinson R-22
Airplane – Cessna 172
D. Estimated Start Date: Enter a start and end date that approximates when you want to commence training and complete training. This can be an estimate, however; you will not be able to start before the commencement date. The TSA will automatically allow you to attend training for one full year in any course (not longer).
5. Once you have completed and submitted this application, the TSA will request that Tampa Bay Aviation validates you as a potential student. We will do so for those individuals who have previously contacted our flight school regarding their intentions either in person or by telephone.
6. The TSA will then send you instructions for the fingerprinting process. You will need to complete the fingerprinting process and submit a $130 security threat assessment fee. Fingerprinting can be done after your arrival.
7. Once the TSA has acknowledged receipt of the required documentation and fees, Clearwater Helicopters, Inc will be sent (via e-mail) a final document approving the student to begin training. Following completion of the above steps, Clearwater Helicopters, Inc will contact you to set up the enrollment appointment and you will be eligible to begin flight training.
Please contact us by phone, 727-461-5229 or e-mail if we may assist you in any way during this process. You may also contact AFSP help Desk at 571-227-1004 or [email protected]. They are very helpful and respond quickly to questions.
AFSP Training Application Information
Commonly asked questions regarding information needed for student applicant on AFSP training request form:
State: FL
Provider Name: Tampa Bay Aviation
Student Identification Number From School: leave blank
Course ID#: 101
Class Name: Type of license training for (i.e. – Private Pilot Helicopter)
Category: 3
Aircraft Type:
For Helicopter- Robinson R22 Beta II
For Airplane- Cessna 172
AFSP Contact number (571) 227-1004
Foreign Authenticity
If you currently possess a foreign pilot certificate, please follow the below link to begin the process for the verification of authenticity.
FAA Foreign Authenticity
What Our Students Are Saying
Don’t just take it from us, let our students do the talking!
Tampa Bay Aviation, located at Clearwater Airpark, boasts an amazing fleet of fixed wing and rotor craft aircraft,that are always kept in excellent condition, ready to fly at a moments notice. This flight school has the best team of CFIs I have ever trained with. Taking into account the excellent rentals rates for amazing quality aircraft, with highly experienced CFIs and staff, it is truly safe to say the TBA is one of the top Flight Schools in the nation!”Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible to get a pilots license?
- Be at least 17 years old.
- Be able to read, speak, write and understand the English language.
- Pass a required knowledge test.
- Pass a required oral and practical flight test administered by a FAA designated examiner.
- Hold either a student or sport pilot certificate.
- Get a Third Class Medical Certificate.
How much time with it take?
IN THE AIR - The FAA requires a minimum of 40 Hours Total Flight Time with 20 Hours Flight Instruction. However, many students require more time. There’s no rush and we won’t push you to complete your training until you’re ready. Our students average around 50 total hours of training.
ON THE GROUND – 35 Hours Ground Instruction
Questions About Flight Training?
Have questions about flight training? Contact us and someone will get right back to you.
