Epic Flight Academy Embraces 529 Savings Plans for Pilot Training
Aspiring pilots and aviation mechanics across the United States now have an exciting new avenue to fund their career pursuits. The Epic Flight Academy, renowned as the largest FAA Part 141 flight school in the country, has recently announced its decision to accept 529 education savings plan payments for eligible aviation training programs. This includes FAA Part 141 flight training and Part 147 aircraft mechanic programs.
This strategic move leverages the recent federal law amendment (Section 70414 of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act) which broadened the eligibility of 529 plans. These plans now extend beyond traditional college degrees to encompass postsecondary vocational and professional credentialing programs. These programs include earning an FAA pilot certificate or aircraft maintenance qualification.
Eligible expenses at Epic Flight Academy may encompass tuition and training fees, mandatory flight and ground instruction, simulator time, books and materials, and examination fees. However, housing and personal living expenses are not included in the coverage.
“Parents have often inquired about the possibility of using 529 plans, so we are thrilled to now accept payments from these plans,” expressed Epic’s Director of Education, Cindy Lovell. “This provides an additional option for students seeking vocational and technical training in the aviation sector.” The academy encourages students and parents to seek advice from a CPA or 529 plan administrator for personalized tax guidance prior to making distributions.
The aviation industry is currently grappling with a well-documented shortage of pilots and mechanics. In this context, expanded financing options like this are viewed as a crucial step in nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals.
Source: AFM Aero – Epic Flight Academy Starts Accepting Payments From 529 Education Savings Plans