Troy University LIFT plane

Image from the Troy University Facebook page. 

Tuskegee University (TU) has reinstated its flight training program at Moton Field, the first since the end of World War Two and the famed Tuskegee Airmen made history. 

The reinstated program was made possible by a partnership with the Leadership In Flight Training (LIFT) Academy, operated by Republic Airways. 

“Tuskegee University is proud of its heritage of training pilots who serve our country,” said TU President Dr. Mark A. Brown. “As North America faces a pilot shortage of about 130,000 in the next 20 years, our new degree program will prepare aviators to serve their country through the defense or commercial aviation industry, which is in need of rebuilding pilot programs to meet the demand.”

Students can gain a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Science from Tuskegee University and a commercial multi-engine pilot license through LIFT Academy.

Training includes classroom instruction, flight simulators, and experience with Diamond DA40 and DA42 aircraft equipped with "advanced" glass cockpit technology.

15 students are now enrolled in the program but more are expected to sign up in the future. 

Additionally, the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals will establish a collegiate chapter at TU to provide mentorship. 

An post from madeinalabama.com cited an announcement from LIFT Academy in February of 2024 35 full-time aviation-related jobs are expected to be created in Tuskegee over three years and 57 certified flight instructors contributing to the program.

“Tuskegee’s place in aviation history just started another chapter in American history,” said Joe Turnham, Director of the Macon County Economic Development Authority.

“Moton Field in addition to pilot training has available land and is cultivating new opportunities for all types of aviation industries, including freight, assembly, air traffic control as well as maintenance.”

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