NATA Pioneers of Flight Scholarship
Offered by National Air Transportation Association
About This Scholarship
The National Air Transportation Foundation, the charitable arm of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), established the Pioneers of Flight Scholarship in 1989 to steer promising students toward careers in general aviation — the world of charter operators, flight schools, FBOs, and maintenance shops that NATA's member companies represent.
Two $1,000 awards are granted each year, each applied toward one year of full-time undergraduate study. The program targets students in the middle of their degrees: applicants must be sophomores or juniors enrolled full time in an aviation degree program at an accredited four-year college or university, with a GPA of 3.0 or better.
Selection emphasizes genuine commitment to general aviation rather than the airline track most aviation students chase. The application asks for an essay on general aviation and a separate paper outlining the applicant's career goals in the field, along with a recommendation letter and official transcripts, so students with real exposure to Part 135, FBO, or flight-training operations have a natural edge.
Eligibility
- College sophomore or junior at the time of application
- Enrolled full time in an aviation degree program at an accredited four-year college or university
- GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
- Demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in general aviation
How To Apply
- Submit the completed application form through the NATA website with an official transcript (one original plus three copies), a letter of recommendation, an essay on general aviation, and a paper outlining your general aviation career goals. Applications are due no later than the last Friday in December.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Pioneers of Flight Scholarship?
College sophomores and juniors enrolled full time in an aviation degree program at an accredited four-year school, with at least a 3.0 GPA and a demonstrated interest in general aviation careers.
How many awards are given and how much are they?
Two $1,000 scholarships are awarded each year, each for one year of full-time undergraduate study.
When is the deadline?
Applications are due no later than the last Friday in December each year — December 25, 2026 for the current cycle.