Seize the spotlight

The Flight Training Experience Awards have transitioned to a new application-driven format for 2025 that gives providers an opportunity to elevate their work for national recognition.

We invite all flight instructors and schools to submit applications for regional and national awards. To strengthen your application, reach out to your students, clients, instructors, and designated pilot examiners who have worked with you in the past year to request their reviews. Our revamped selection process includes screening applications followed by blind judging by industry experts, ensuring fairness and transparency.

Chris Moser, AOPA senior director of flight training education, emphasizes the importance of this new format: “We’re asking for more detailed information to truly understand our candidates. This allows our judges to identify the best schools and instructors, ultimately guiding flight training customers to top-notch providers in their area.”

With awards for Best Flight School, Best Instructor, Distinguished Flight Schools, and Distinguished Instructors in the regional category, as well as national recognition for the best in the industry, this is a golden opportunity to showcase your commitment to excellence.

Act now: Applications are accepted online until noon Eastern time on October 31. Submit your application here.

The Flight Training Experience Awards are part of AOPA’s You Can Fly program, which aims to attract and engage more people in flying. Help us celebrate the exceptional instructors and schools that make a difference in the aviation community.

The You Can Fly program and the Air Safety Institute are funded by charitable donations to the AOPA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization. To be a part of the solution, visit www.aopafoundation.org/donate.