Application Process
Apply to Sanders Flight Training Center today. Learn about program eligibility, financing, and how to start flight training with no delays. Take the first step toward your aviation career.
Begin With Sanders
Start Your Aviation Journey with SFTC
At Sanders Flight Training Center, we make enrolling in flight training simple and efficient. Whether you’re an aspiring pilot, a military aviator transitioning to civilian aviation, or a career changer looking to enter the airline industry, our structured application process ensures you start training as soon as possible—without delays.
How to Apply
Applying to Sanders Flight Training Center is simple, transparent, and tailored to your aviation goals. Whether you're beginning your first lesson or transitioning from military service, our streamlined admissions process ensures you're fully prepared for takeoff. From eligibility requirements to scheduling and financing, we walk you through every step to get you flying—fast.
Begin by submitting an Admissions Request Form, which includes:
- Personal Information (Name, Contact Details)
- Desired Training Program (Private Pilot, ATP-CTP, CFI, etc.)
- Training Location Preference (Jasper, Tuscaloosa, or Huntsville)
- Previous Aviation Experience (if applicable)
- Financing & Payment Options Interest
Once submitted, an Admissions Advisor will contact you to review your goals, program eligibility, and available start dates.
All students must meet FAA-mandated requirements before starting training. These include:
Age Requirements:
- Private Pilot Certificate (PPL) – Can begin training at 16 years old, but must be 17 years old to finish.
- Commercial Pilot Certificate (CPL) – At least 18 years old
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) – At least 18 years old
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) – At least 23 years old (or 21 for Restricted ATP)
- Sanders Flight Training Center Students – Must obtain at least an FAA Third-Class Medical, meet the requirements of basic med, or posess a current military flight physical (DD2992)
- Students Using VA Benefits - Must obtain at least an FAA Second-Class Medical Certificate for all courses except ATP-CTP.
- ATP Students Using VA Benefits - Must obtain at least an FAA First-Class Medical Certificate.
- U.S. citizens must provide a valid passport or a government-issued photo ID with a birth certificate.
- All forms of government issued photo identification must be REAL ID compliant.
- Non-U.S. citizen military exchange pilots must complete TSA Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) clearance before beginning training.
Once eligibility is verified, students will receive:
- Course Start Date & Training Schedule
- Estimated Completion Timeline
- Financing & Payment Plan Options
- Pre-Training Digital Correspondence
After reviewing the program details, students will confirm enrollment and complete necessary paperwork.
Financing & Payment Options
At Sanders Flight Training Center, we believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to your aviation career. That’s why we offer a range of flexible financing options, military benefits, and scholarship opportunities to help you train with confidence. Whether you're a first-time student or a transitioning military pilot, our team will help you find a payment solution that fits your goals and budget.
SFTC Tuition Payment Plans Through Lumion
- Monthly & weekly installment plans to break down training costs.
- Predictable, structured payments with no large upfront cost.
- Easy enrollment process with clear payment terms.
GI Bill & Military Benefits
- GI Bill-approved training programs for eligible veterans.
- Credentialing opportunities online (COOL) experience.
- Streamlined transition for military pilots seeking civilian airline careers.
Stratus Financial – Aviation Student Loans
- Pilot-specific student loans with flexible repayment terms.
- Career counseling & airline hiring guidance included.
- Housing allowances for full-time students.
- No prepayment penalties for early loan payoff.
Our Locations
Expanding Our Reach and Impact
With growing demand for professional pilot training, Sanders Flight Training Center has expanded beyond its headquarters in Jasper. Today, the flight school operates three training locations in Alabama.
Main Office - Jasper AL
Walker County Airport - Bevill Field (KJFX)
Huntsville, AL
Huntsville International Airport (KHSV)
Tuscaloosa, AL
Tuscaloosa National Airport (KTCL)