Become a Professional Pilot in Just 16 Months!

Unlock Your Aviation Dreams with the Professional Aeronautics Certification (PAC) Program!

Are you ready to take your passion for flying to new heights? The PAC program, offered by Beaufort County Community College (BCCC) in collaboration with D2 Flight Training Center and renowned aviation researcher Dr. Chris Johnson, is you’re fast-track pathway to a professional flying career. Designed for aspiring pilots from all walks of life, this accelerated program allows you to earn your FAA licenses and ratings in just 16 months.

Why Choose PAC?

Accelerated Learning

Complete your training in just 16 months, significantly faster than traditional aviation degree programs.

Expert Instruction

Learn from industry leaders and experienced flight instructors, including Dr. Chris Johnson, who has dedicated his career to advancing aviation training.

State-of-the-Art Equipment

Train with best-in-class flight-training equipment, including advanced avionics, GPS navigation, autopilot capability, and Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) software.

Flexible Scheduling

Designed to accommodate traditional college students, returning adult students, military veterans, and high-school juniors and seniors.

Program Overview

The Professional Aeronautics Certificate (PAC) is an accelerated program designed for students seeking a fast-track pathway to a professional flying career. Developed in cooperation between Beaufort County Community College (BCCC), D2 Flight Training Center, and acclaimed aviation-training researcher Dr. Chris Johnson, the program represents a unique opportunity for residents of Eastern North Carolina to achieve their dreams of becoming professional pilots locally in a safe, friendly, and flexible environment using best-in-class flight-training equipment.

Program Highlights

Ready to Take Off? Discover Your Path to Becoming a Professional Pilot!

Unlock your aviation dreams with the Professional Aeronautics Certification (PAC) program at Beaufort County Community College. Our accelerated, 16-month program offers expert instruction, cutting-edge equipment, and flexible scheduling to fast-track your journey to the skies. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to soar to new heights. Contact us today to learn more and start your adventure!

Our Curriculum

The Professional Aeronautics Certification (PAC) program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to become professional pilots. The program is structured into four main courses, each building upon the previous one to ensure a thorough understanding of aviation principles and practices.

Private Pilot License (PPL)

Duration: 4 months

The first step in your aviation journey, the PPL course covers the basics of flying, including aircraft operation, navigation, and safety procedures. Students will gain hands-on experience and complete solo flights.

Instrument Flight Rating (IFR)

Duration: 4 months

This course focuses on flying in various weather conditions and relying on instruments for navigation. It enhances your skills in precision flying and prepares you for more complex flight scenarios.

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Duration: 4 months

The CPL course prepares you for a career as a professional pilot. It includes advanced flight maneuvers, emergency procedures, and commercial flight operations. Graduates are ready to work as private or charter aircraft operators.

Flight Instructor (CFI) (Optional)

Duration: 4 months

For those interested in teaching others to fly, the CFI course provides the necessary training to become a certified flight instructor. It covers instructional techniques, flight training methods, and student assessment.

Multi-Engine (ME) Rating (Optional)

Duration: 2 months

This optional course allows you to train on multi-engine aircraft, expanding your capabilities and job opportunities. It includes multi-engine flight operations, engine-out procedures, and advanced navigation.

Pathway to ATP License

The Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license is the highest level of pilot certification, qualifying pilots to serve as captains or first officers on commercial aircraft. Achieving this certification requires dedication, extensive training, and significant flight experience. Here’s a detailed look at the pathway to obtaining an ATP license:

Flight Hours and Career Progression

Graduates of the PAC program will complete 250-300 flight hours, providing a strong foundation for further flight experience. After gaining additional flight hours and experience, graduates can pursue the ATP license, opening up opportunities for high-paying roles in commercial aviation.

Employment Prospects

The Professional Aeronautics Certification (PAC) program equips students with the skills and flight hours needed to be immediately employable in various aviation roles. Graduates can expect strong job prospects due to the current pilot shortage and growing aviation markets. The program prepares students for roles such as private or charter aircraft operators, flight instructors, and eventually, airline transport pilots (ATP).

Private or Charter Aircraft Operator

Graduates can work as private or charter aircraft operators, flying passengers or cargo on demand. This role involves operating flights for individuals, businesses, or organizations that require flexible and personalized air travel services.

  • Starting Salary: Typically ranges from $80,000 to $120,000 per year.

Flight Instructor

Graduates who opt for the Flight Instructor (CFI) course can become certified flight instructors, teaching new pilots the skills and knowledge needed to earn their licenses. This role is crucial for maintaining a steady flow of qualified pilots in the industry.

  • Starting Salary: Typically ranges from $50,000 to $70,000 per year, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and location.

Multi-Engine Aircraft Pilot

Graduates who complete the optional Multi-Engine (ME) rating can operate multi-engine aircraft, which are often used for more complex and demanding flight operations. This qualification opens up additional job opportunities in both private and commercial aviation sectors.

  • Starting Salary: Typically ranges from $90,000 to $130,000 per year.

Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)

Graduates can progress to becoming airline transport pilots, the highest level of pilot certification. This role involves flying large commercial aircraft for airlines, requiring extensive flight experience and advanced training.

  • Starting Salary: Typically ranges from $100,000 to $150,000 per year, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and airline.

State-of-the-Art Equipment

At the Professional Aeronautics Certification (PAC) program, we are committed to providing our students with the best training tools and technology available. Our state-of-the-art equipment ensures that you receive top-tier education and hands-on experience, preparing you for the challenges of modern aviation.

Training Aircraft

Our training aircraft are equipped with advanced avionics, including GPS navigation and autopilot capability, enhancing flight precision and safety. Students also utilize Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) software for streamlined flight planning, real-time weather updates, and efficient navigation.

Simulation Devices

We offer Advanced Aviation Training Devices (AATDs) that simulate real-world flying conditions, allowing students to practice maneuvers and emergency procedures in a safe environment. Additionally, our AI-driven weather simulator helps students navigate diverse weather scenarios, building their confidence and decision-making skills.

Cost

Understanding the cost of the Professional Aeronautics Certification (PAC) program is crucial for prospective students. Below is a detailed breakdown of the expenses associated with each course, along with a narrative description of each license and rating, including the costs involved.

Private Pilot License (PPL)

The Private Pilot License (PPL) course costs $23,601, which includes $1,000 for tuition, $17,941 for flight fees, $1,175 for exam fees, and $3,485 for other fees. This investment covers fundamental flying skills, including takeoffs, landings, and navigation, and prepares you to operate single-engine airplanes safely in visual weather conditions.

$23,601

Instrument Flight Rating (IFR)

The Instrument Flight Rating (IFR) course costs $27,409, which includes $1,000 for tuition, $24,079 for flight fees, $1,275 for exam fees, and $1,055 for other fees. This rating allows you to fly in various weather conditions using only the aircraft’s instruments, enhancing your navigation skills and preparing you for restricted-visibility conditions.

$27,409

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

The Commercial Pilot License (CPL) course costs $22,995, which includes $1,000 for tuition, $19,866 for flight fees, $1,275 for exam fees, and $854 for other fees. This license is essential for those looking to be compensated for their flying services, covering advanced flight maneuvers, emergency procedures, and commercial flight operations.

$22,995

PAC Program Total

Total Cost: $74,006

Optional Flight Instructor (CFI)

The Flight Instructor (CFI) course costs $16,283, which includes $1,000 for tuition, $11,132 for flight fees, $3,625 for exam fees, and $526 for other fees. This course prepares you to teach new pilots, covering instructional techniques, flight training methods, and student assessment.

$16,283

Optional Multi-Engine (ME) Rating

The Multi-Engine (ME) rating course costs $16,076, which includes $0 for tuition, $12,936 for flight fees, $2,200 for exam fees, and $940 for other fees. This rating allows you to operate multi-engine aircraft, which are often used for more complex and demanding flight operations.

$16,076

Optional Courses Total

$32,359

Grand Total

PAC Program + Optional Courses Financing Options: Private lenders, scholarships, and grants are available. GI Bill Benefits: Efforts are underway to secure FAR Part 141 approval.

$106,365

Meet Dr. Chris Johnson: Leading Aviation Expert and Educator

Dr. Chris Johnson is a seasoned aviation expert and educator with a PhD in Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. An Air Force veteran and former assistant professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Dr. Johnson has dedicated his career to advancing aviation training. As a certified flight instructor (CFI, CFII, MEI) and commercial pilot, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the PAC program, ensuring students receive top-tier education and hands-on training. His approachable teaching style and commitment to excellence make him a standout leader in the field.

FAQ

Applicants must be at least 17 years old, U.S. citizens or legal residents, and possess a valid FAA Class 1 medical certificate. They must also pass a drug and alcohol screening.

The aviation industry is experiencing a pilot shortage, creating strong demand for new pilots. Graduates can expect numerous job opportunities with competitive salaries.

Graduates can pursue careers as private or charter aircraft operators, flight instructors, multi-engine aircraft pilots, and eventually airline transport pilots (ATP).

The program requires a commitment of 15-20 hours per week, including ground school and flight training. Classes and flight lessons are scheduled to accommodate students’ availability.

Financing options include private lenders, scholarships, and grants. Students are encouraged to explore these options to help cover the costs of the program.

Students are required to have insurance coverage for flight training. Details on specific insurance requirements will be provided upon enrollment.

Students must adhere to a strict attendance policy, committing to scheduled flight times and ground school sessions to ensure consistent progress.

 Graduates typically start working as flight instructors to build flight hours and experience. They can then progress to commercial pilot roles and eventually pursue an ATP license.

Currently, GI Bill benefits are not available, but efforts are underway to secure FAR Part 141 approval to make these benefits accessible in the future.

Students can expect to spend 15-20 hours per week on the program, including both class time and flight lessons. The schedule is designed to be flexible to accommodate different student needs.

Applicants must obtain an FAA Class 1 medical certificate, which includes a physical examination to ensure they meet the health and fitness standards required for pilots.

Yes, students are typically required to have their own rental insurance to cover any potential damages to the aircraft during training

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