2026
PPL Aviation
Scholarship
We believe in the power of education to transform the future of aviation enthusiasts. The Aerospace Museum of California is dedicated to advancing this vision. Our Private Pilot License (PPL) Aviation Scholarship Program aims to support enthusiastic students who are committed to becoming licensed private pilots. Our Private Pilot License (PPL) Aviation Scholarship Program aims to support enthusiastic students who are committed to becoming licensed private pilots. Apply before February 14, 2026, for our PPL Aviation Scholarship.
Our Mission
Through the AMC Scholarship Program, youth and young adults will develop a strong passion for aviation and the personal attributes necessary to complete the program and become an FAA certified private pilot.
The 2026 Aerospace Museum of California (AMC) scholarship program is funded by the Ellsworth Hovey Getchell Foundation and other generous donors. The program is administered through an AMC Board-appointed scholarship committee. The scholarships will be awarded to deserving youth for flight training expenses.
Key Components of the 2026 scholarship program include the awarding of multiple $12,500 scholarships for private pilot flight training, a commitment to mentoring and tracking students through flight training, and engaging students in Aerospace Museum activities.
About the Program
The Aerospace Museum’s commitment to its scholarship program is central to the success of scholarship recipients. The Museum’s motto – “Where Dreams Take Flight” will become a reality for the Aerospace Museum of California’s newly pinned pilots.
Train students ages 16-22 to achieve FAA Private Pilot License (PPL) certification
Achieve flight training success rate of 100% for students taking part in the 2026 program
Create a supportive mentoring community and program through the Aerospace Museum to ensure flight training success
Celebrate milestones and success stories of AMC flight students
Create lifelong partnerships in general aviation and AMC
Goals for 2026
Scholarship Application Minimum Requirements
Age 16 – 22 for flight training
Able to begin training within 30 days of accepting the award (Signing the agreement)
Commitment to working with an AMC-assigned mentor
Commit to four hours a month of AMC volunteer service.
Examples: Participate in AMC activities, Become a Flight Zone volunteer or Provide AMC admin/support
In addition to the above minimum requirements, the following will be additional considerations for applicants who possess the following:
AMC volunteer, or other aviation activities
Prior flight training experience, specifically students who have attempted to pay their way through training
Completed ground school/FAA written exam
Note: The prescription of ADHD medication will impact the student’s ability to get their FAA medical certificate. When applying for the scholarship, please keep in mind that an FAA medical certificate is required in order to access scholarship funds. A student's inability to acquire an FAA Medical Certificate will result in forfeiture of the scholarship.
The perfect candidate for this program is a student who is excited about learning new things, possesses a profound passion for aviation, and is dedicated and committed to advancing their knowledge and skills in flying.
Application Due Date: 11:59 pm PST, February 14, 2026 | Eligible Ages: 16 – 22 years, as of June 1, 2026