Epic Flight Academy has announced the recipients of its 10th Annual Aviation Scholarship Awards, providing $145,000 in scholarships to 17 U.S. high school students for 2025. The scholarship program supports aspiring pilots and aircraft maintenance technicians by reducing the financial barriers to professional aviation training.

The announcement highlights Epic Flight Academy’s continued investment in the next generation of aviation professionals while addressing the growing demand for skilled pilots and aircraft mechanics across the United States.

Record Applications Reflect Growing Interest in Aviation Careers

More Than 150 Students Applied Across 24 States

The 2025 scholarship program attracted more than 150 applications from students representing 24 U.S. states, making it the most competitive application cycle since the program was established.

According to Dr. Cindy Lovell, Director of Education, applicants demonstrated exceptional passion, academic achievement, and commitment to aviation careers. After a competitive review process, scholarship recipients were selected from 12 different states, highlighting the nationwide reach of the program.

Strong Competition Among Future Aviation Professionals

The increasing number of applications reflects growing student interest in careers such as:

• Commercial Pilot
• Airline Pilot
• Flight Instructor
• Aircraft Maintenance Technician
• Aviation Safety Specialist

The scholarship program aims to encourage talented students to enter an industry facing increasing workforce demand.

Epic Flight Academy Has Awarded $590,000 in Scholarships

Since launching its aviation scholarship initiative ten years ago, Epic Flight Academy has distributed approximately $590,000 in scholarship funding to help young students begin careers in aviation.

The academy continues expanding financial support through annual scholarship competitions designed for high school students interested in professional flight training and aircraft maintenance education.

Scholarship Program Continues to Grow

Each year, the academy has increased awareness of aviation careers while providing financial assistance to deserving students with strong academic performance and leadership potential.

Pilot Scholarship Winner Recognized for Exceptional Emergency Landing

One of the most inspiring stories from the 2025 scholarship recipients involved the winner of the Captain Judy Rice $20,000 Pilot Scholarship.

According to Epic Flight Academy CEO Danny Perna, the student from Wisconsin successfully performed an emergency landing on a rural road after experiencing an engine failure during a solo flight.

Leadership and Aviation Skills Highlighted

Perna praised the student’s professionalism and calm decision-making, noting that the experience demonstrated the qualities expected from future aviation leaders.

The incident became one of the standout moments among this year’s scholarship applications and reflected the importance of quality flight training.

Additional Aviation Scholarships Expand Student Opportunities

Epic Flight Academy also partners with aviation organizations to provide extra financial assistance.

King Air Nation Foundation Supports Future Aviators

In 2025, the King Air Nation Foundation contributed:

• $10,000 scholarship for an aircraft maintenance student
• $5,000 scholarship for a flight training student

These partnerships help increase educational opportunities while supporting workforce development across the aviation industry.

About Epic Flight Academy

Founded in 1999, Epic Flight Academy is one of the leading FAA-approved aviation training institutions in the United States.

Aviation Training Programs Offered

The academy operates:

FAA Part 141 Flight Training Schools

Students receive structured pilot training designed to prepare them for professional aviation careers.

FAA Part 147 Aircraft Mechanic Schools

The academy also trains future aircraft maintenance technicians through FAA-approved maintenance programs that combine classroom instruction with practical experience.

With multiple training locations across the United States, Epic Flight Academy continues preparing students for careers in commercial aviation, flight operations, and aircraft maintenance.

Why These Aviation Scholarships Matter

The aviation industry continues to experience strong demand for qualified pilots and maintenance professionals. Scholarship programs like Epic Flight Academy’s help talented students begin their training without carrying the full financial burden.

For many recipients, these awards provide an important pathway toward obtaining FAA certifications, professional flight training, and long-term employment opportunities within the aviation sector.