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Aviation – Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot
Lake Area Tech’s Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot program prepares you for a career in aviation through a structured combination of classroom instruction, simulation, and hands-on flight training. Over 18 months, you’ll build the technical knowledge, flight experience, and decision-making skills required to operate as a professional pilot.
Training covers aerodynamics, aviation safety, federal air regulations, airspace systems, and flight operations, along with private, instrument, and commercial pilot ground and flight instruction. Students also progress through instrument and instructor-level training, building both skill and confidence as they advance.
From the first semester, students are immersed in flight training using a range of aircraft, including high-wing, tailwheel airplanes and motorgliders. These aircraft require a higher level of control input and situational awareness, helping students develop stronger piloting fundamentals early. Glider training, in particular, reinforces decision-making, environmental awareness, and aircraft control in ways that carry through the rest of a pilot’s career.
The program is grounded in the three core principles of aviation: aviate, navigate, communicate. Students learn to prioritize aircraft control first, then build the skills needed to manage navigation and communication in increasingly complex environments.
In the final phase of the program, students choose between two paths. The Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) option prepares graduates to teach and build flight hours while working toward advanced commercial opportunities. The Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) option prepares students to operate large drones in controlled airspace and beyond visual line of sight, with curriculum aligned to FAA collegiate training initiative standards.
Graduates are prepared for careers in areas such as corporate aviation, cargo, aerial survey, air ambulance, agricultural aviation, and flight instruction, with a clear pathway toward airline and advanced commercial roles. The program works closely with industry advisors and utilizes both Lake Area Tech facilities and the Watertown Regional Airport to ensure training stays aligned with current industry needs.
If you plan to continue your education, tools like Transferology can help you understand how your coursework applies toward a four-year degree and explore your next steps.
Professional Licensure
Lake Area Technical College’s curriculum for Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot program options meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in South Dakota and many other states. Professional licensure and certification requirements often vary from state to state. Prospective or current students considering an academic program that leads to a professional license or certification are strongly encouraged to seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency in the state you plan to work before beginning an affiliated academic program. Read more here regarding Professional Licensure Disclosures.
Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot Checklist
- Before you start school…
- Obtain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Medical Certificate.
- See Medical Guidelines below for more information.
- Obtain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Medical Certificate.
- Purchase and Aviation Headset
- This is required for flight lessons.
- See Headset Purchasing Guidelines below for more information.
- Purchase an iPad
- You’ll need an iPad for flight lessons. Lake Area Tech has a discount with ForeFlight; we can help you buy that when you get here!
- We suggest an iPad mini as it’s easier to handle in the cockpit, but some students prefer the larger screen.
- You can get through your first semester without an iPad, but you’ll need one when you start on your instrument the second semester.
- You’ll need an iPad for flight lessons. Lake Area Tech has a discount with ForeFlight; we can help you buy that when you get here!
- Bring on Day One of Class
- Your Medical Certificate
- Your Aviation Headset
- iPad
- One of the following set of documents so we can get you flying day 1!
- Valid Passport
- OR original birth certificate (with the raised seal) AND government issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license) (not expired)
Hold off on buying books; many are FREE online! We’ll talk to you about what books you should buy hard copies of.
NOTE: Course costs are based on the average number of flight hours it takes a student to complete the course and varies based on student capacity and motivation. The student is responsible for additional costs of flight time which are above those quoted.
Professional Fixed-Wing Medical Guidelines
A pre-requisite to entering the Lake Area Technical College Professional Pilot program is a 2nd Class FAA Medical. However, we recommend getting a 1st Class Medical. If you choose to get a 2nd Class Medical, ask the Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) if there are any conditions he sees that would prevent you from getting a 1st Class Medical.
There are three classes of medical certificates you can get:
- 1st Class. You need this to fly at an airline.
- 2nd Class: You need this (at minimum) to get paid to fly.
- 3rd Class: Fly recreationally. You cannot be paid to fly with this medical.
You are at the beginning of a high-cost training program to become a commercial pilot. You NEED TO KNOW NOW if you can pass a 1st or 2nd Class Medical. We don’t want you to go through your Private Pilot and Instrument training and then be denied a medical when you get to your commercial training at the beginning of your second year.
Why do we recommend getting a 1st Class Medical?
- Most employers require a 1st Class Medical
- Even if you think you don’t want a job that requires a 1st Class, we think you should keep your options open.
Steps to getting an FAA Medical:
- Find an AME and make an appointment before school starts: https://designee.faa.gov/designeeLocator
- Make a MedXPress account and fill out the required information before your appointment: https://medxpress.faa.gov/medxpress/login.aspx
South Dakota AMEs (you can find AMEs in any state):
- Dr. Kruse – Flight Time Medical – Brookings, SD (605) 736-0035
- Dr. Bien – Avera – Brookings, SD (605) 697-9500
- Dr. Bjordahl – Avera – Milbank, SD (605) 432-4587
- Dr. Huntington – CFM – Sioux Falls, SD (605) 339-1783
- Dr. Martin – CNOS – Dakota Dunes, SD (605) 217-2667
- Dr. Ptacek – Monument Health – Sturgis, SD (605) 720-2600
If you wear corrective lenses we recommend scheduling an eye exam in the 90 days prior to getting your physical and take an FAA form 8500-7 with you to your eye appointment. Take the completed form from your eye appointment to your appointment with the Aviation Medical Examiner.
If you’ve had eye surgery in the preceding two years, a waiver will need to be provided from your eye specialist to the Aviation Medical Examiner.
Professional Fixed-Wing Headset Purchasing Guidelines
You will need a headset for your flight lessons. Here are some things to consider when purchasing your aviation headset.
There are two types of aviation headsets. Passive and Active Noise Reduction (ANR). (Sometimes ANR is also called Electronic Noise Cancelling-ENC). Many pilots start training with a passive headset and move into a noise-cancelling headset when they start their first pilot job. Whichever you choose, know that you’ll likely want to upgrade to an ANR headset at some point.
One thing we can’t stress enough-if you decide to buy an ANR headset, don’t spend less than $700-$900. The ANR headsets that sell for less than $700 don’t hold up well over time; you’re better off buying a passive headset.
Passive Headsets
- Pros: Always Work, Durable, “Fool Proof”, Last Forever, Low Maintenance, Cost Effective
- Cons: Noisy, Uncomfortable After 6+ Hours of Flying
ANR Headsets
- Pros: Comfortable, Quiet, “What the Pros Use”
- Cons: Need Batteries, Higher Expense, More Fragile than Passive
To clarify: DO NOT buy an ANR headset for less than $700 (unless it’s one of the models listed below). You’re better off buying a passive David Clark headset.
Passive Headset Recommendations (prices are approximate):
- David Clark H20-10 ($425)
- David Clark H10-13.4 ($350)
ANR Headset Recommendations (prices are approximate):
- Bose A30 ($1,299)
- Bose A20 ($995-1,299)
- Lightspeed Zulu 3 ($899-1,199)
- David Clark ONE-X ($995)
- Lightspeed Zulu
- Lightspeed Sierra ($699)
Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot Program Learning Outcomes
- Describe the professional attributes, requirements or certifications, and planning applicable to aviation careers.
- Describe the principles of aircraft design, performance, and operating characteristics; and the
regulations related to the maintenance of aircraft and associated systems. - Evaluate aviation safety and the impact of human factors on safety.
- Discuss the impact of international aviation law, including applicable International Civil Aviation
Organization (ICAO) or other international standards and practices, and applicable national aviation law, regulations, and labor issues on aviation operations. - Explain the integration of airports, airspace, and air traffic control in managing the National Airspace
System. - Discuss the impact of meteorology and environmental issues on aviation operations.
Uncrewed Aerial Systems Pilot Option
The Unmanned Aerial Systems Pilot option will prepare graduates to pursue careers operating large unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly referred to as drones, beyond the visual line of sight and in controlled air spaces. The program option has been designated an Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Collegiate Training Initiative program by the Federal Aviation Administration. That distinction means graduates earning a degree with this option will have access to a professional consortium that facilitates sharing best practices in this industry through UAS training tools, resources, and guidelines.
The UAS program at Lake Area Technical College is recognized in the FAA Unmanned Aircraft Systems Collegiate Training Initiative (UAS-CTI) Program and a member of the Consortium for Small Unmanned Aircraft System Technology Training.
Certified Flight Instructor Option
The Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) option offers graduates the opportunity to gain employment as flight instructors or entry level FAA certified commercial pilots. For those who have a passion for teaching, the LATC CFI option provides a means to fulfill that dream. Flight instructor certification provides an opportunity to build logged flight hour time toward more advanced commercial pilot opportunities (such as the airlines) while getting paid to fly. Certified Flight Instructors are in high demand due to the current need to fill commercial pilot positions across the globe. If teaching is not your thing, our program gets you certified to pursue your passion to fly commercially. Graduates of the LATC Certified Flight Instructor program have the following FAA certifications:
- Single Engine Land Commercial Pilot
- Single Engine Land CFI
- Single Engine Land Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)
- Multi-Engine Land Commercial
Aviation – Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot Careers
Below are several careers you could pursue with an Aviation – Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot degree. Visit our job board to see job opportunities in the Aviation – Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot sector.
Commercial Pilot
Graduates of the Professional Fixed Wing Pilot program can pursue careers as Commercial Pilots, operating aircraft for a variety of transportation, business, and aviation services. In this role, you'll plan flights, conduct pre-flight inspections, navigate aircraft safely, and transport passengers or cargo while adhering to strict aviation regulations. It's an exciting career path for individuals who enjoy responsibility, technology, and the freedom of flight.
Where you might work:
• Commercial aviation companies
• Air cargo operators
• Charter flight services
• Corporate aviation departments
• Aviation service providers
Flight Instructor
As a Flight Instructor, you'll help the next generation of pilots develop the skills and confidence needed to fly safely. Graduates can expect to provide classroom instruction, conduct flight training, evaluate student performance, and mentor aspiring aviators. This role allows pilots to build valuable flight experience while sharing their passion for aviation.
Where you might work:
• Flight schools
• Aviation training centers
• Collegiate aviation programs
• Fixed-base operators (FBOs)
• Pilot training organizations
Charter or Corporate Pilot
Charter and Corporate Pilots provide customized air transportation services for businesses, organizations, and private clients. In this role, you'll operate aircraft on flexible schedules, travel to a variety of destinations, and deliver a high level of professionalism and customer service. This career offers diverse flying experiences and opportunities to work closely with passengers and organizations.
Where you might work:
• Corporate flight departments
• Private aviation companies
• Charter flight operators
• Fractional ownership providers
• Business aviation organizations
Aerial Survey or Utility Pilot
As an Aerial Survey or Utility Pilot, you'll use aircraft to support specialized operations that provide valuable information and services to industries and communities. Graduates can expect to conduct aerial mapping, photography, infrastructure inspections, environmental monitoring, and utility patrol operations. This role combines aviation skills with technology and problem-solving in unique flying environments.
Where you might work:
• Aerial survey companies
• Utility service providers
• Engineering and mapping firms
• Environmental consulting organizations
• Government and public service agencies
Regional Airline Pilot
Regional Airline Pilots transport passengers between cities and communities while serving as an essential part of the nation's air transportation system. In this role, you'll work with airline crews to ensure safe and efficient flight operations while building the experience often required for advancement within the aviation industry. This career path is a popular stepping stone to larger airline opportunities.
Where you might work:
• Regional airlines
• Passenger air carriers
• Airline partner networks
• Commercial aviation companies
• Scheduled air service providers
Graduates can pursue this job after building further required flight hours.
Degree Pairings
Explore relevant classes and certificates below to see how they can increase hirability post-graduation.
Aviation – Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot+ Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate
August start only.
There is a fast-growing demand for workers who can operate and maintain uncrewed aircraft systems in our region. The Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate coursework will equip students with the necessary skills to be employed as uncrewed aerial system operators/pilots and technicians. Graduates will learn the laws and ethical procedures for operating Uncrewed Aerial Systems and will have the knowledge and skills to become a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Certificated Remote Pilot (Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate). Beginning fall 2025, Uncrewed Aerial Systems is an 18-credit, two-semester certificate delivered in a hybrid format with both online and on-campus components.
The UAS program at Lake Area Technical College is recognized in the FAA Unmanned Aircraft Systems Collegiate Training Initiative (UAS-CTI) Program and a member of the Consortium for Small Unmanned Aircraft System Technology Training.
Every class, every semester. Find the right pathway to achieve your degree on your timing.
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"1997-1999 were two of the greatest years of my life! I am just AMAZED at what this school has accomplished and continues to do!"
Estimated Cost
At Lake Area Tech, there are no surprises. View expected expenses below, so you can plan ahead for a successful year.
| Tuition | $8,978 |
| State Fees | $3,016 |
| Departmental Fee | $5,320 |
| Campus Support Fee | $2,078 |
| Flight Time Fees | $40,789 |
| Certified Flight Instructor Fees | $20,495 |
| Uniform Fee | $116 |
| Tools | $1,050 |
| Books | $1,000 |
| Laptop (What laptop should I get?) | $1,190 |
| Total Estimated Program Cost: | $84,032 |
We know that college is a large financial undertaking, and our main priority is that there are no surprises as you navigate this journey. Our goal is to offer you the most transparent look at potential costs associated with your degree.
Note that other indirect costs, such as housing, food, transportation, personal and other miscellaneous costs will vary for each student’s situation, and are not included in this estimate.
We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.
Aviation – Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot FAQs
Get the details you need to decide if this program is the right fit for you.
What certifications and flight ratings can I earn through Lake Area Tech’s Fixed- Wing Pilot program?
Students in Lake Area Technical College’s Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot program can earn industry-recognized FAA certifications and ratings, including Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, and Commercial Pilot – Airplane. These credentials prepare graduates for professional pilot careers and meet FAA training standards while earning a college degree.
How long does it take to complete the Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot degree?
The Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot program is designed to be completed in approximately two years when followed full-time. The program blends classroom instruction, flight training, and simulator experience to efficiently build both knowledge and flight hours.
What types of aircraft do students train in at Lake Area Tech?
Students train in modern, well-maintained fixed-wing training aircraft commonly used in professional pilot education. These aircraft are selected to provide real-world flying experience that translates directly to commercial aviation environments.
Is there an option to learn to pilot helicopters?
Yes. In addition to fixed-wing training, Lake Area Technical College offers a rotorcraft (helicopter) pilot pathway for students interested in helicopter aviation. Students can explore helicopter training options alongside or separate from the fixed-wing program.
Is the fixed-wing pilot program suitable for students with no prior flight experience?
Absolutely. Lake Area Tech’s program is designed for beginners with no prior flight experience. Students start with foundational aviation concepts and progress step-by-step through flight training, making the program accessible to first-time pilots.
What makes Lake Area Tech’s fixed-wing pilot training different from other aviation schools?
Lake Area Tech combines FAA-aligned flight training with a structured college degree, providing:
- Small class sizes
- Personalized instructor support
- Industry-focused curriculum
- Strong safety culture
- Access to modern aircraft and simulators
This approach delivers both flight credentials and an academic credential valued by employers.
Does the program offer hands-on flight time and simulator training?
Yes. Students receive extensive hands-on flight time along with advanced simulator training. Simulators allow students to practice procedures, instrument flying, and emergency scenarios in a controlled environment that enhances safety and learning efficiency.
Are there job placement or internship opportunities in the aviation industry for students?
Lake Area Tech maintains strong industry partnerships that support job placement, internships, and networking opportunities. Graduates benefit from career guidance and employer connections that help them transition from training to professional aviation roles.
Is LATC a Part 61 or 141 Program? What’s the difference?
Lake Area Tech is a pt 61 flight program. Many other institutions (both 2 year and 4 year) are pt 141. The biggest difference between pt 61 and pt141 is that students need 250 hours to be a commercial pilot pt 61. At a pt 141 school student’s only need 190. Though the difference of 60 hours may seem like a lot, it’s not! Our students use up to 50 hours of simulator time towards their commercial. That means they only need 200 hours of airplane time! At LATC you’ll also split time with your classmates. You end up paying for around 180 hours towards your commercial at Lake Area Technical College; the rest is simulator or split time with your classmates. Because LATC is not a pt 141 college, we do not currently offer an R-ATP. The UAS Option has 197 hours, minimum, in the outline. The CFI Option has 209 hours, minimum, in the outline.
Why should I choose the LATC pilot program?
1. LATC Students get the opportunity to fly Gliders and Tailwheels more than most other institutions. We believe this helps develop great stick and rudder skills.
2. Students split time while here and fly with each other. This helps keep costs down for students while building time towards their commercial.
3. Because our students have the opportunity to graduate in 2 years they can start flight instructing, time building, and get into the work force quickly!
How do I become a certified Drone Pilot?
To become a certified drone pilot, you must pass the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Exam. At Lake Area Tech, students complete FAA-aligned coursework that covers airspace rules, flight operations, safety procedures, and mission planning—then apply that knowledge through hands-on flight labs. After completing the program, students are fully prepared to sit for the FAA exam and earn their Remote Pilot Certificate, which allows them to fly drones commercially.
What certifications can I earn through LATC’s Uncrewed Aerial Systems program?
Through the UAS program at Lake Area Tech, students can earn:
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification
- LATC UAS Technical Certificates in areas such as:
- Drone flight operations
- Remote sensing and data collection
- Mission planning and safety
These stackable credentials allow students to enter the workforce quickly or continue into advanced UAS and aviation pathways.
How does Lake Area Tech prepare students for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot exam?
Lake Area Tech uses an FAA-mapped curriculum that directly aligns with Part 107 testing standards. Students receive:
- Targeted instruction on FAA regulations and airspace
- Practice exams and scenario-based training
- Real-world mission planning and flight operations
This combination of classroom instruction and applied learning helps students pass the FAA exam with confidence.
What jobs can I get with a drone pilot or UAS certificate?
Graduates of the UAS program are prepared for careers in fast-growing industries, including:
- Precision agriculture and crop scouting
- Public safety and emergency response
- Infrastructure and utility inspection
- Surveying and mapping
- Construction monitoring
- Environmental and wildlife monitoring
- Media, photography, and videography
Many students also use their certification to start their own drone service businesses.
How does the FAA’s UAS Collegiate Training Initiative benefit students?
Lake Area Tech is recognized through the FAA UAS Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI), meaning students learn in a program that meets national FAA standards. This designation:
- Confirms industry-recognized training quality
- Enhances employer confidence in graduates
- Keeps coursework aligned with current FAA regulations and workforce needs
Students graduate with training that is respected nationwide.
What skills will I learn in the Uncrewed Aerial Systems program?
Students develop both technical and professional skills, including:
- Drone flight and safety procedures
- Airspace interpretation and FAA compliance
- Mission planning and risk assessment
- Data collection, mapping, and remote sensing
- Equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
- Industry-specific applications (agriculture, public safety, surveying, etc.)
How long does it take to complete the drone pilot certification at Lake Area Tech?
The UAS certificate can typically be completed in one to two semesters, depending on the student’s course load and program pathway. Many students earn their FAA Part 107 certification while completing coursework, allowing them to enter the workforce quickly.
Do I need prior aviation experience to start the drone pilot program?
No prior aviation or drone experience is required. Lake Area Tech’s UAS program is designed for beginners and starts with the fundamentals before progressing to advanced flight operations and industry applications.
Is the UAS certificate accepted for professional licensure in most states?
Yes. The FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is a federal credential and is recognized nationwide. This means graduates can legally operate drones commercially in all U.S. states, making the credential highly portable and valuable.
What certifications are required to become a flight instructor?
At Lake Area Technical College, students pursuing the Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) option progress through Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, and then CFI training. Students may also earn CFII (Instrument Instructor) and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) ratings, which significantly increase employment and flight-hour opportunities.
How long does it take to become a certified flight instructor (CFI)?
Most students complete the full pathway—from zero flight time to Certified Flight Instructor—in approximately 18–24 months when enrolled full time at Lake Area Tech. Students entering with prior flight experience may complete the CFI option more quickly.
Is a CFI or CFII certification required to build flight hours toward airline jobs?
No, a CFI or CFII is not required, but it is the most common and reliable pathway for building flight hours. Many Lake Area Tech graduates choose to instruct because it allows them to earn income, log consistent flight time, and gain leadership experience while working toward airline minimums.
What is the difference between CFI and CFII training?
- CFI (Certified Flight Instructor): Focuses on teaching VFR flight maneuvers, aircraft control, and foundational aviation skills.
- CFII (Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument): Prepares instructors to teach instrument flight procedures, advanced navigation, weather analysis, and IFR operations.
How does single-engine and multi-engine training work in an aviation program?
Students begin training in single-engine aircraft, developing fundamental piloting and instructional skills. Multi-engine training is introduced later in the program and focuses on complex aircraft systems, performance management, and safety procedures. Multi-engine experience is a key advantage when pursuing airline or corporate aviation careers.
Can I become a commercial pilot without becoming a flight instructor first?
Yes. Some graduates pursue careers in charter operations, aerial survey, agricultural aviation, or corporate flying. However, these positions can be competitive. Flight instructing remains the most accessible and consistent option for building flight time immediately after graduation.
What are the FAA requirements for commercial pilot certification?
Lake Area Tech prepares students to meet all FAA commercial pilot requirements, including:
- Minimum flight time requirements under FAA regulations
- Passing FAA knowledge and practical (checkride) exams
- Advanced training in navigation, complex maneuvers, and aeronautical decision-making
- Holding a valid Second-Class FAA Medical Certificate
How much flight time will I log in a CFI certification program?
CFI students typically log 20–40+ flight hours during instructor certification training. Once employed as a flight instructor, many graduates log 60–100 flight hours per month, allowing them to reach airline minimums efficiently.
Is the certified flight instructor option a good pathway to airline careers?
Yes. Flight instructing is one of the strongest airline career pathways, and Lake Area Tech’s CFI option is designed specifically to support that goal. Graduates gain extensive flight experience, instructional expertise, strong safety habits, and professional communication skills—all qualities airlines look for when hiring pilots.
Aviation – Professional Fixed-Wing Pilot Staff
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