Vaughn College’s bachelor’s degree programs in aircraft operations and aeronautical sciences have been accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI) for a period of five years, effective July 2019 through July 31, 2024.

AABI was established in 1988 at the initiative of 100 colleges and universities with aviation programs who recognized the need to establish standards and submit themselves to the review of their peers and the industry.  Its purpose is to serve as the official accrediting body for all collegiate aviation.

Vaughn’s aircraft operations professional pilot program has been developed to provide students proficiency in all areas of pilot skills to achieve the certified flight instructor level and to meet the growing demand through 2039 for pilots. The aeronautical sciences bachelor of science degree provides students with the flexibility to incorporate flight qualifications with academic studies. The program provides the ability to explore career opportunities in addition to becoming a pilot, in the aviation, management and technology fields, by obtaining a foundation in flight dispatch, air traffic control or airfield operations.

“This accreditation means a great deal for the institution and especially for our students,” said Aviation Department Chair Dr. Pete Russo. “We’ve worked hard to meet the high standards for AABI accreditation in our degree programs and are confident it will help our students meet their educational goals and help them stand out as they begin their professional careers.”

A growing number of airlines are looking for pilots who have graduated from colleges that are accredited by AABI. To become accredited, aviation programs have to satisfy a range of quality criteria that demonstrate their ability to maintain a level of performance, integrity and quality that will be recognized by the educational community, the industry and the public.

“Airlines want to hire from AABI-accredited college programs because they know these pilots have been educated according to universally accepted disciplines and the rigorous standards set by the industry,” explained Russo. “The Industry advises AABI, and AABI advises colleges, and the result is that industry experts look for pilots with those credentials. It’s a virtuous circle. And that is why Vaughn College actively pursued AABI accreditation.”

Aviation degree programs like the ones offered at Vaughn College ensure graduates have the skills and knowledge they need to meet the demands of growing industries. Aviation giant Boeing recently released its pilot and technician outlook, which forecasts a long-term robust need for highly trained professionals over the next 20 years. More than 760,000 pilots and more than 735,000 maintenance technicians will be needed as the industry rebounds worldwide and the current workforce approaches retirement.