NATA Dan L. Meisinger Sr. Memorial Learn to Fly Scholarship
Offered by National Air Transportation Association
About This Scholarship
The Dan L. Meisinger Sr. Memorial Learn to Fly Scholarship honors the longtime president of Topeka-based Executive Beechcraft, a fixture of midwestern general aviation. Administered by the National Air Transportation Association's foundation, the award puts $2,500 toward initial or primary flight training for a college student who is just starting down the pilot path.
Unlike most collegiate aviation awards that assume an existing pilot certificate, this scholarship is aimed at students at the very beginning: applicants must be enrolled in an aviation program and pursuing their first flight training. Academic standards still apply — a B average or better is required — and candidates are typically recommended by an aviation professional, though NATA accepts direct applications as well.
Reflecting the Meisinger family's Kansas roots, preference goes to residents of Kansas, Missouri, or Illinois, but the scholarship is open nationally. For a student pilot facing the roughly $12,000-plus cost of a private certificate, the award covers a meaningful slice of initial training at a time when few other scholarships apply.
Eligibility
- College student currently enrolled in an aviation program
- Pursuing initial or primary flight training
- B average (3.0) or better
- Recommendation from an aviation professional preferred (direct applications accepted)
- Preference given to residents of Kansas, Missouri, or Illinois
How To Apply
- Complete the online application on the NATA website and download and submit the required Appraisal and Endorsement Form along with all documents indicated on the application. Applications are due no later than the last Friday in November.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a pilot certificate to apply?
No — this scholarship is specifically for initial or primary flight training, making it one of the few NATA awards aimed at brand-new student pilots.
Does living in Kansas, Missouri, or Illinois matter?
Preference is given to residents of those three states, reflecting the Meisinger family's midwestern aviation roots, but students nationwide may apply.
When is the deadline?
Applications are due no later than the last Friday in November each year — November 27, 2026 for the current cycle.