Military & Veteran Flight Training
Your service gave you skills civilian students spend years trying to develop. At Tradewind, we build on what you already know — and help you pay for it with the benefits you've earned.
Veterans & Separated Service Members
Use Your GI Bill Benefits for Flight Training
Tradewind Flight Services is an approved VA flight training provider. If you've separated from service, your GI Bill benefits can cover a significant portion — or all — of your flight training costs. The VA pays us directly upon receipt of your eligibility letter, so you focus on flying, not paperwork.
Not sure what you're eligible for? Our team will walk you through your options before you commit to anything. We've helped veterans navigate this process and we'll do the same for you.
Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
The most comprehensive benefit available. Covers flight training costs with minimal out-of-pocket expense — Tradewind is paid directly by the VA upon receipt of your eligibility letter.
Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30)
Covers up to 60% of approved flight training costs, paid monthly based on actual training received. Can be combined with other benefits in some cases.
Vocational Rehabilitation (Chapter 31)
Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for full flight training coverage through the VR&E program, including living stipends during training.
Your Background Is an Advantage
You Already Know More Than You Think
Military Pilot Conversion
Already rated in military aircraft? We'll help you convert your experience to FAA certificates and build toward Commercial or ATP credentials on an accelerated timeline.
CRM & Airmanship Credit
Your crew resource management training, instrument proficiency, and operational discipline translate directly into the competencies FAA examiners look for.
Structured, Mission-Oriented Training
We train the way the military trains — with clear objectives, defined milestones, and instructors who hold you to a standard. No ambiguity, no wasted sorties.
Career Planning from Day One
We help you map the full path — from your first FAA certificate to regional airline minimums — so you know exactly where you're going and how long it will take.
Who We Serve
Built for Those Who Served
Military Pilots
Convert your military ratings to FAA certificates and build toward Commercial or ATP credentials with an instructor who understands your background.
Aviation Maintenance Personnel
Your technical knowledge of aircraft systems gives you a real edge in flight training. We help you translate that expertise into a cockpit career.
Non-Aviation Veterans
No flight experience? Your military discipline, attention to detail, and ability to perform under pressure are exactly what flight training demands.
National Guard & Reserves
Select Guard and Reserve members may be eligible for GI Bill benefits or SkillBridge participation. Contact us to review your specific eligibility.
Still on Active Duty?
DoD SkillBridge: Train Before You Separate
If you're within 180 days of separation, the DoD SkillBridge program lets you train with Tradewind while still receiving your military pay and benefits. Tradewind is a DoD-approved SkillBridge partner — your participation is fully recognized and your training counts toward FAA certification.
SkillBridge Eligibility
- Active-duty service member within 180 days of separation
- Unit commander authorization to participate
- Ability to complete the program before your separation date
- Completion of your Service's transition assistance program recommended
Get Commander Authorization
Contact your installation's SkillBridge POC and obtain unit commander approval to participate in the program.
Connect with Tradewind
Reach out to our team to discuss your background, timeline, and training goals. We'll build a plan around your separation date.
Train on Full Pay
Begin FAA-structured flight training while maintaining your DoD employment status and pay. No out-of-pocket cost during the program.
Separate with Credentials
Leave active duty with FAA certificates in hand, flight hours logged, and a clear plan for continuing your aviation career as a civilian.
Let's Talk About Your Options
Whether you're still serving, recently separated, or a veteran ready to start flying — we'll help you figure out the best path and what your benefits will cover. No pressure, no obligation.