Approved Programs
You can use your GI Bill education benefits to complete the professional flight training you’ve always dreamed about.
 You’ve earned your VA benefits. Tampa Bay Aviation can help you put them to work. We’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure you get the best use of your benefits to launch your new career.
 Most veterans now have benefits under Post-9/11 GI BillÂŽ (Chapter 33). Under Post-9/11 GI BillÂŽ (Chapter 33), the benefitâs maximum rate per academic year is capped. The cap for the current academic year (August 1, 2020 - July 31, 2021) is $14,378.35.
- Instrument Fixed Wing
- Commercial Fixed Wing
- CFI Fixed Wing
- CFII Fixed Wing
- Commercial Multi-Engine Add On
- Rotorcraft Helicopter Certified Flight Instructor
- Airplane (AMEL)-Multi-Engine Land Certified Flight Instructor Rating
- Commercial Rotorcraft Add-On from Commercial Fixed-Wing
Credentialing Assistance Approved Courses
- Instrument Fixed Wing
- Instrument Fixed Wing Add On (Already have rotor instrument)
- Commercial Fixed Wing
- Commercial Multi-Engine Add On - Part 141
- Commercial Multi-Engine Add On - Part 61
- Instrument Helicopter
- Commercial Helicopter


What Our Students Are Saying
Don’t just take it from us, let our students do the talking!
“I absolutely CANNOT say enough good things about this operation! Just got my CFI from them, and had fun doing it (which I’m told is not a common phenomenon). It took minimal time, and the cost was about what you’d expect to pay at American Flyers, or ATP for CFI. However, the quality of training you will receive here will far exceed the standard of the “pilot mills”. Larry was my primary instructor but I also flew with Josh, Durant and Mike, all of whom were very knowledgeable and professional (in addition being “down to earth”, and cool). Look no further than these guys for all of your flight training needs! They’re awesome!!!”
“Tampa Bay Aviation is an excellent operation. My son did his flight training here last summer and earned his Private Pilot License, and it inspired me to learn to fly as well. The instructors are excellent, the aircraft are up to date and the staff is friendly and helpful. We have recommended them to several friends and they have had excellent experiences as well. Overall, it is a great place to fly. i HIGHLY recommend it!”
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 will 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 –Â 35 Hours Ground Instruction
Questions About Flight Training?
Have questions about flight training? Contact us and someone will get right back to you.