Arkadelphia, Arkansas – Henderson State University has announced the expansion of its aviation offerings with the introduction of the Arkansas Aviation Academy (AAA). This newly renamed program, previously the university’s aviation flight training initiative, is designed to provide non-student pilots with the necessary credentials to pursue careers as commercial pilots. The academy, approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), is set to offer a comprehensive, hands-on approach to pilot training that builds on HSU’s existing professional pilot bachelor’s degree program.
This expanded program aims to meet the growing demand for pilots by making aviation more accessible to individuals outside the university’s traditional student body. As part of the initiative, HSU has introduced several key new training courses, including a Multi-engine add-on course, a tailwheel course, and a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) spin-training course. These additions are designed to cater to aspiring pilots looking to advance their skills and credentials in the competitive aviation field.
In line with the program’s expansion, Henderson State has also bolstered its fleet by adding two multi-engine airplanes, providing an even wider range of training opportunities for both current students and non-students. This marks a significant shift in the university’s approach, as the AAA is now available to any aspiring pilot with the ambition to advance their career.
“We know there’s a shortage of pilots, and we can help address that by offering this certification to external aviators,” said Dr. Shannon Clardy, dean of the College of Aviation, Science, and Nursing at HSU. “The multi-engine certification opens doors for career advancement to all pilots.”
The new multi-engine certification is crucial for many pilots, as most airlines now require multi-engine experience. Pilots taking this course must already hold a commercial pilot certificate and will undergo intensive training. The course is designed to be completed in just five days, offering a mixture of ground training, simulator training, and 6-8 hours of multi-engine flight time. Additionally, participants will benefit from pre- and post-flight debriefs with instructors, ensuring that they are fully prepared for the challenges of multi-engine flight.
To further support participants, Henderson State has also made arrangements for accommodations on campus during the week-long training. This will help make the program more convenient for pilots traveling from out of town.
As the Arkansas Aviation Academy grows, the university is also working on the formation of an aviation advisory board to help guide the program’s future development.
“Aviation is expensive,” Clardy acknowledged. “Henderson State makes aviation accessible to more people because we are on the low end of the cost for flight training.” This commitment to affordable education and high-quality training sets the Arkansas Aviation Academy apart from many other aviation programs in the region, offering aspiring pilots the opportunity to earn their credentials without breaking the bank.
With the launch of the Arkansas Aviation Academy, Henderson State is positioning itself as a key player in addressing the ongoing pilot shortage, providing high-quality, accessible flight training to individuals eager to take their careers to new heights.
