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:
Fall 2026 (Sept. 1)
Spring 2027 (Jan. 5)
Summer 2027 (May 4)
Fall 2027 (Sept. 7)
Spring 2028 (Jan. 4)
Summer 2028 (May 2)
Student to Faculty
17 students per 1 instructor*
*Ratio’s vary based on starting cohort and program, however typically do not exceed 25:1 in lab/shop and 50:1 in theory.
Graduate Placement
Statistics based on students that graduated in June 2023 through May 2024 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
Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program
- Associate in Specialized Technology Degree
- 20 Months
The AMT program prepares students for the FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification Exams.
Aviation Electronics Technology (AET) Program
- Associate in Specialized Technology Degree
- Less than 2 years
The AET program prepares students for the NCATT Exams.
Optional Elective Courses
Rotorcraft Systems & Maintenance course (AG383/NG383): This course 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.
Drone Operations Course (AG386/NG386): This course is designed to familiarize individuals with drone operations, starting with an introduction to drones (sUAS) and progressing to FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot test preparations. This course is typically only offered once a year during the summer term. There are no pre-requisites to sign up for this course.
Tuition & Fees
*On July 1, 2026, PIA’s Tuition and Title IV billing methodology will change for new students.
Students who begin their program before July 1, 2026, should reference the “STARTS BEFORE 7/1/26” Tuition & Fees tab below. Students who begin their program after July 1, 2026, will be billed using a standard semester-credit methodology and reference the “STARTS AFTER 7/1/26” Tuition & Fees tab.
| Tuition (2026-2027) (Students Starting AFTER July 1, 2026) | |
|---|---|
| Total AMT Program (5 Semesters), 77 Credits | $44,250 |
| Flat Term Rate (15-18 credits) | $8,850 |
| Per Credit Rate | $590 |
| *Effective September 1, 2026 | |
| 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) | $2,625 |
| Other Fees | |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee This fee must accompany the enrollment application at the time that the candidate makes formal registration. | $125 |
| Uniform Fee One-time fee when a student begins training providing them a set of five (5) tops and a sweatshirt. | $100 |
| Technology Fee The revenue generated by this fee is dedicated for the upgrading, expansion, and support of our technology resources, including the use of AMPower, an AI-assisted technology designed to enhance the quality and experience. | $275/Term |
| Materials Fee Includes consumable and other specialty items required for various projects and assignments throughout the program. | $100/Term |
| FAA Airframe & Powerplant Examination Fees (AMT Only) Graduates of the Aviation Maintenance Technician Programs are eligible to test for the FAA Airframe & Powerplant certification. There are nine (9) examinations (3 oral, 3 practical, and 3 written) which the applicant must pass to achieve FAA A&P certification. (Includes 3 Written @ $175/ea. and 3 Oral & Practical @ $400/ea.) | $1,725 |
| NCATT Exam Fee (AET only) | $175 |
| FCC General Radiotelephone License Fees (Optional AET only) | $120 |
| PDE Student Mandatory Fee Annual Report | |
| Tuition (2025-2026) (Students who Started BEFORE July 1, 2026) | |
|---|---|
| Total Program AET or AMT (7 Quarters), 2478 hours | $42,140 |
| Tuition Per Quarter | $6,020 |
| *Effective July 2024 | |
| 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) | $2,265 |
| Aviation Electronics Technology Program (AET) | $2,144 |
| Other Fees | |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee This fee must accompany the enrollment application at the time that the candidate makes formal registration. | $150 |
| Uniform Fee One-time fee when a student begins training providing them a set of five (5) tops and a sweatshirt. | $100 |
| Technology Fee The revenue generated by this fee is dedicated for the upgrading, expansion, and support of our technology resources. | $90/Term |
| Materials Fee Includes consumable and other specialty items required for various projects and assignments throughout the program. | $50-$85/Term |
| FAA Airframe & Powerplant Examination Fees (AMT Only) Graduates of the Aviation Maintenance Technician Programs are eligible to test for the FAA Airframe & Powerplant certification. There are nine (9) examinations (3 oral, 3 practical, and 3 written) which the applicant must pass to achieve FAA A&P certification. (Includes 3 Written @ $175/ea. and 3 Oral & Practical @ $400/ea.) | $1,725 |
| NCATT Exam Fee (AET only) | $175 |
| FCC General Radiotelephone License Fees (Optional AET only) | $120 |
| PDE Student Mandatory Fee Annual Report | |
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 25-26 Cost of Attendance Year One
Pittsburgh Aviation Maintenance 25-26 Cost of Attendance Year Two
Pittsburgh Aviation Maintenance 25-26 Cost of Attendance Year Three
Pittsburgh Aviation Electronics 25-26 Cost of Attendance Year One
Pittsburgh Aviation Electronics 25-26 Cost of Attendance Year Two
Pittsburgh Aviation Electronics 25-26 Cost of Attendance Year Three
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.
Vice President of Education
“At PIA, our dedicated team of professionals foster an environment of excellence, ensuring our students are not only prepared but also confident in facing the aviation industry’s unique challenges.”
– Dr. Phil Klein
Approvals & Accreditation
- Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools & 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