28 January 2026
Acron Aviation Academy – the former L3Harris Airline Academy – has announced the return of two of its flagship professional pilot training programmes in the USA alongside the launch of a new merit-based scholarship, marking the flight school’s 40th anniversary.
The Accelerated Airline Pilot Track (AAPT) and the Professional Pilot Program (PPP) were formally reintroduced during Aerospace and Aviation Day at Sanford International Airport on 24 January. The event brought together students, educators, aviation professionals and community leaders to highlight career pathways in aviation and aerospace.
Both programmes have previously supported hundreds of pilots into airline careers. The AAPT offers an intensive, structured route from zero hours to airline readiness, while the PPP provides a more flexible pathway aimed at students seeking a broader foundation in professional aviation skills and operational standards.
The PPP is designed to take students through private, instrument and commercial training, including single- and multi-engine ratings. The programme includes ground school, flight test fees and built-in hours above FAA minimums to support proficiency development. Students entering with an existing private pilot licence may be eligible for a reduced programme cost.
Alongside the programme relaunch, Acron Aviation Academy introduced the EXCEL Scholarship, a performance-based award covering the cost of the Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument add-on. The scholarship will be awarded to the highest-performing students based on ground school exam results, checkride performance and instructor feedback.
Dave Cox, Director of Acron Aviation Academy, said the return of the programmes reflected both the school’s heritage and current industry needs.
“These programmes helped define who we are as a flight academy, and bringing them back during our 40th anniversary is about honouring our legacy while meeting today’s demand for well-trained, career-ready pilots,” he said.
With continued demand for pilots in the US airline industry, the Academy says its renewed focus is aimed at high school graduates, career changers and others seeking a structured route into professional flying.
