The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Foundation awarded more than $2.2 million in flight training and aviation scholarships in 2026, marking the largest annual distribution in the organization’s history.
Supported by the Ray Foundation, more than $1.3 million went to 115 high school students and teachers, who each received $12,000 toward training for a private pilot certificate. Additional funds support training for sport, private, commercial, and flight instructor certificates, as well as instrument or multiengine ratings, mechanics, and flight dispatchers, according to AOPA Foundation officials.
“Spreading the scholarship awards over the course of the year means applicants aren’t waiting as long to start earning a new rating or certificate, and if they’re not selected the first time they apply, they now have an earlier opportunity to reapply,” said Taz Thomas, AOPA Foundation Scholarship Program Senior Manager.
The AOPA Foundation now operates two annual application cycles: April to June and October to December. The current application window closes Dec. 31. Applicants must hold an active AOPA membership, which is complimentary for high school students.
For more information: AOPAFoundation.org
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