Pride. Purpose. Prestige.

PIA has developed a curriculum focused on practical hands-on training for future aviation technicians. Students have the opportunity to work on functional aircraft and equipment to develop their skills and knowledge with industry-related projects.  Programs at PIA not only meet but exceed the minimum requirements outlined by 14 CFR Part 147 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

An education at PIA prepares students to test for their FAA Airframe & Powerplant Certification or their FCC General Radiotelephone Operators License.  PIA also offers the opportunity for students to complete both programs offered, resulting in dual certification in both Aviation Maintenance Technology and Aviation Electronics Technology.

Become an Aviation Technician

Hands-On Education, Real-world Application

The skills and techniques taught at PIA prepare students for careers both within and outside of aviation.  Working with functional equipment, future aviation technicians focus on propulsion systems, non-metallic and metallic structures, hydraulics and pneumatics, composite materials, and other elements of advanced aircraft maintenance.

With over 90 years of industry experience, PIA graduates have built a reputation of skill and professionalism as aviation technicians.  PIA has developed partnerships with organizations seeking skilled technicians and those employers continue to revisit PIA when seeking entry-level employment for their organization.

• Turbine Engines
• Reciprocating Engines
• Metallic Structures
• Ignitions Systems
• Hydraulics & Pneumatics
• Composite Materials
• Welding
• And more

PIA’s Myrtle Beach campus offers AST degree programs in Aviation Technology. The branch campuses also offer a diploma or certificate program in Aviation Maintenance Technology.

Myrtle Beach Campus Quick Facts - Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program

• 16 Month - Diploma/Certificate
• 4 Terms - 1900 Clock Hours

The AMT program prepares students for the FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification Exams.

Start Dates: September 28, 2020, and January 19, 2021

Student to Faculty: You can feel confident you will get the attention you deserve with an average class size of 15 students per 1 instructor.

Graduate Placement: 94 employable graduates placed in jobs between July 1, 2018, and June 30, 2019.

Tuition, Fees, & Financial Aid

Tuition (FY 2019-2020)*

• Total AMT Certificate Program (4 Terms), 1900 hours $26,000
• Tuition Per Term $6,500

*Effective January 17, 2019

Books, Tools, & Supplies: The charges for books, tools, and supplies are approximate charges and are subject to sales tax where applicable. Prices may change without notice for the Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program. $2,462

Other Fees

• Registration Fee $150
• FAA Airframe & Powerplant Examination Fees $1,200
• Makeup Charges for Excessive Absence $13.71/hr

Financial Aid

As you prepare for your education, it’s important to know you’re not alone in navigating your financial plan.

Most students depend on a financial plan that incorporates multiple resources. Together, we’ll explore your eligibility for various financial aid programs, loans, grants and scholarships to help you figure out what’s best for your unique situation.

Here at PIA, we believe that a high-quality education should be delivered with transparency, including understanding how your investment measures with your earning potential. A stable financial plan should have no surprises, and that’s exactly what you can expect when you meet with the PIA Financial Aid Office.

Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

Approvals and Accreditation

• Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
• Federal Aviation Administration approval 3PIT597K
• Approved by the U.S. Department of Education
• Licensed by the South Carolina Commission of Higher Education (che.sc.gov)
• Approved for the Training of Veterans

• Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
• Federal Aviation Administration approval 3PIT597K
• Approved by the U.S. Department of Education
• Licensed by the South Carolina Commission of Higher Education (che.sc.gov)
• Approved for the Training of Veterans