PIA’s main campus in Pittsburgh, PA offers two training options for those interested in becoming an aviation technician. PIA’s specialized Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) and Aviation Electronics Technology (AET) programs provide hands-on skillsets based on aviation industry practices that are transferable into a diverse set of related occupations.
Ranked by Forbes as a Top Two-Year Trade School in 2018, Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics has produced certificated aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians to enter the workforce in aviation maintenance, electronics, and other related fields since 1929.
Aviation technicians are in high demand due to the industry shortage caused by current technicians reaching retirement age and less people pursuing careers in technical trade. Those positions need to be filled by well trained, safety focused aviation technicians.
Pittsburgh Campus Quick Facts
Start Dates/Times
Start Dates:
April 03, 2023
July 12, 2023
October 05, 2023
January 05, 2023
Hours:
8:00am-2:30pm
Monday-Friday
Student to Faculty
You can feel confident you will get the attention you deserve with an average class size of 14 students per 1 instructor.
Graduate Placement
Statistics based on students that graduated in June 2020 through May 2021 as reported to ACCSC.
Includes a combination of AMT & AET graduates.
Campus Admissions
Danny Cohen
412-346-2148
dcohen@pia.edu
John Ferretti
412-346-2112
jferretti@pia.edu
Chris Motto
412-346-2160
cmotto@pia.edu
Shane Neugebauer
412-346-2158
sneugebauer@pia.edu
Programs Available at the Pittsburgh Campus
Optional Elective Course: AG383
PIA’s Rotorcraft Systems & Maintenance course (AG383) is offered to our second year Aviation Maintenance students and current industry A&P Technicians. Students will get a look at the history of helicopters, and study the fascinating aerodynamics of rotorcraft, helicopter flight controls and basic engine installations. This course is a wonderful addition to the resume for anyone seeking employment in the rotorcraft sector.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition (FY 2022-2023) | |
---|---|
Total Program AET or AMT (7 Quarters), 2478 hours | $39,655 |
Tuition Per Quarter | $5,665 |
*Effective July 2022 |
Books, Tools, & Supplies | |
---|---|
The charges for books, tools and supplies are approximate charges and are subject to sales tax where applicable. Prices may change without notice. | |
Aviation Maintenance Technology Program (AMT) | $2,355 |
Aviation Electronics Technology Program (AET) | $2,084 |
Other Fees | |
---|---|
Registration Fee | $150 |
Uniform Fee | $100 |
Technology Fee | $190/Term |
Materials Fee | $50-$85/Term |
FAA Airframe & Powerplant Examination Fees (AMT Only) | $1,380 |
NCATT Exam Fee (AET only) | $175 |
FCC General Radiotelephone License Fees (Optional AET only) | $120 |
Makeup Charges for Excessive Absence | $16.00/hr |
Cost of Attendance (COA)
The PIA Financial Aid office establishes standard student budgets each year as a basis for awarding financial aid funds. These budgets are based on actual tuition charges, national average living allowances calculated by The College Board, and include direct and indirect costs for the academic year.
The following cost of attendance example is based on the following assumptions:
- All tuition charges are for full time students.
- Independent – a student who is consider independent based on FAFSA
- Dependent Off Campus – a student that lives in an apartment or their own home
- Dependent Commuter – a student that resides at home with parents/relatives
Pittsburgh Aviation Maintenance 23-24 Cost of Attendance
Pittsburgh Aviation Electronics 23-24 Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
As you prepare for your education, it’s important to know you’re not alone in navigating your financial plan.
Here at PIA, we believe that a high-quality education should be delivered with transparency, including understanding how your investment measures with your earning potential. A stable financial plan should have no surprises, and that’s exactly what you can expect when you meet with the PIA Financial Aid Office.
Housing for Students
PIA provides a list of properties that have been used by PIA students in the past as well as several new listings. This list is not a recommendation or guarantee by PIA. In addition, the Internet can also be a powerful tool when searching on one’s own. All arrangements are between the student and the property manager or owner. PIA IS NOT INVOLVED IN THESE AGREEMENTS IN ANY MANNER.
Dean of Education

“The hands-on experience and real-world training that students receive at PIA will provide a strong foundation for a fulfilling and rewarding career in the aviation industry.”
– Donna Moore
Approvals & Accreditation
- Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
- Federal Aviation Administration approval HE1T189K
- Federal Aviation Administration Avionics Repair Station Certificate HE1R189K
- Approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education to award an Associate in Specialized Technology Degree
- Approved by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) to participate in the Pennsylvania State Grant ProgramsApproved by the Department of Education to participate in the Federal Direct Student Loan Programs
- Approved by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools (src.ohio.gov)
- Approved by the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
- Aviation Electronics program is accredited by National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Training (NCATT)
- Authorized under Federal law to enroll non-immigrant alien students
- Military-Friendly School