Aviation
Take off with aviation at WWU
The aviation program focuses on quality training in aircraft operation, safety, and communication to get you in the air for your future career. You will learn how aircraft fly, how to operate them safely, and how to interact in the world of professional aviation. During training you will be at the controls, learning firsthand the challenges and rewards of operating aircraft.
The Walla Walla Valley has on average 200 days of clear sky per year, and another 100+ days of flyable weather. This means less time spent on the ground and more time in the air. The Northwest’s variety of climates and terrain offers well-rounded flight experience. Your training will be overseen by our experienced faculty and instructors who are personally invested in you and your success
Student Spotlight
Ever wonder what it's like to study aviation at Walla Walla University? Leaundre, a senior aviation technology major, recently showed us around the flight center and took us along as he taught a flight lesson. Take a peek to see what it's like!
College Experience
What will your college experience look like as an aviation major?
Prime flying location: You will train at a Class Delta controlled airport with access to an Instrument Landing System approach, two area navigation (GPS/RNAV) approaches, and two VOR approaches on field. You’ll get valuable experience interacting with air traffic control. With an on-campus Computerized Aviation Testing Service (CATS) for FAA written examinations and two designated examiners in the area for practical exams, you won’t need to travel for experience or testing.
Great preparation: WWU students also have an assigned flight instructor to guide them from day one. WWU operates Part 61 of the Federal Aviation Regulations, which provides a program more flexible to students’ needs. Many students work as flight instructors, gaining valuable flight hours while earning a paycheck. Seniors also complete capstone projects at the culmination of their training.
HIgh-end equipment: The program features: a 13,700 square-foot flight center, eight aircraft fully Instrument Flight Rules capable, and two flight simulators for flexibility and safety during unusual emergency situation training. Learn more about our fleet.
Aviation Club: Join our student-run club to get involved in fun, aviation-focused events throughout the school year that inspire camaraderie with fellow pilots and enthusiasts. Events range from hangar BBQs, to museum visits and regional fly-ins.
Career Path
What can your career path as an aviation major look like?
With a degree in aviation, you can pursue careers in management and administrative services, or as pilots, copilots, and aircraft crew members. Pilots often transport passengers and cargo in airplanes and helicopters, but they can be involved in more unusual tasks: dusting crops, testing aircraft, performing fire-fighting efforts, transporting medical patients, or tracking criminals. Experience is necessary for advancement in most aviation careers, and pilots must earn necessary licenses and ratings from the FAA.
WWU aviation majors are prepared to serve in a variety of capacities where management skills in combination with aviation skills are needed. The future of these careers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is projected to grow six percent from 2021 to 2031. About 18,100 openings for airline and commercial pilots are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
News & Updates
