Wallace State Community College Aviation
About
Wallace State Community College's Aviation/Flight Technology program has been training professional and recreational pilots since 1978, making it one of the longest-running community college flight programs in Alabama. Operating from Cullman Regional Airport in Vinemont, the program is FAA-approved under Part 141 for both airplane and helicopter pilot training and awards an Associate in Applied Science degree upon completion.
The airplane fleet includes Cessna 172 Skyhawks and Piper PA-28 Pilot 100i singles, plus an Elite 135 Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD) for instrument and procedural training. The helicopter program operates a Hughes 269C, Robinson R22, and Robinson R44 Raven II, giving rotary-wing students access to classic and modern training platforms. This dual fixed-wing and helicopter capability makes Wallace State one of the few community colleges in Alabama offering both tracks under one program.
Students may earn the Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, and Commercial Pilot certificates for both airplane and helicopter, with additional CFI training available. The program's accessible tuition and community college format make it a cost-effective path for students in north Alabama looking to launch a professional pilot career. Program Director Megan Smith can be reached at [email protected] or 256-737-3040.