Tennessee is home to some of the best aviation training centers in the southeastern United States. With a strong aviation industry, favorable weather, and easy access to major airports, it has become a preferred destination for student pilots. Whether you’re looking for Private Pilot License (PPL) training, Instrument Rating (IR), Commercial Pilot License (CPL) programs, or full Professional Pilot tracks, Tennessee offers abundant opportunities.
Below are the top 15 flight schools in Tennessee, complete with descriptions, program offerings, and estimated tuition fees.
Top 15 Flight Schools In Tennessee And Fees
1. Middle Tennessee State University (Professional Pilot Program)
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) in Murfreesboro hosts one of the most advanced aviation programs in the region. The university operates a large fleet of Diamond and Cessna aircraft and offers a full bachelor’s degree in Aerospace with a Professional Pilot concentration.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot License
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII/MEI)
- Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace
Estimated Fees:
- Full Professional Pilot Degree: $65,000 – $80,000
- PPL Only: $12,000 – $17,000
Why Choose MTSU?
State-of-the-art hangars, airline partnerships, high placement rate, and advanced simulators.
2. Nashville Flight Training (Nashville International Airport – BNA)
Nashville Flight Training (NFT) is one of the largest FAA-certified flight schools in Nashville. Located at BNA, students train in real commercial airspace—excellent preparation for future airline pilots.
Programs Offered:
- PPL, IR, CPL
- Multi-Engine
- CFI/CFII
- Airline Career Pilot tracks
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $14,000 – $18,500
- CPL: $28,000 – $35,000
- Full Career Program: $55,000 – $70,000
Why Choose NFT?
Strong reputation, experienced instructors, and an excellent safety record.
3. Millington-Memphis Airport Flight School (Millington Aviation)
Millington Aviation trains students in the Memphis area at the Millington-Memphis Airport. The school offers personalized one-on-one instruction and structured FAA-approved programs.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot License
- Instrument Rating
- Multi-Engine
- Commercial Pilot Programs
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $13,000 – $17,000
- Professional Pilot Pathway: $50,000 – $65,000
Why Choose Millington Aviation?
Quiet airspace, great instructors, and affordable hourly aircraft rates.
4. Air Venture Flight Center (Olive Branch Airport – Near Memphis)
Located near the Tennessee border, Air Venture Flight Center is widely used by Tennessee-based students because of its affordability and proximity to Memphis.
Programs Offered:
- PPL, IR, CPL
- CFI/CFII
- Multi-Engine
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $11,000 – $16,000
- Commercial: $27,000 – $32,000
- CFI/CFII: $8,000 – $12,000
Why Choose Air Venture?
Excellent fleet maintenance and some of the best hourly rates in the region.
5. Chattanooga State Aviation Program (Professional Pilot Track)
Chattanooga State Community College partners with local flight schools to offer an associate degree in aviation and structured professional pilot training.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot License
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot License
- Associate Degree in Aviation
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $12,000 – $17,000
- Degree + Flight Training Total: $55,000 – $75,000
Why Choose Chattanooga State?
Affordable tuition and accreditation from a respected public institution.
6. Tennessee Flight Training (TFT) – Smyrna Airport
TFT is one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing flight schools. Located at Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport, it offers training for recreational and professional pilots in a friendly, structured environment.
Programs Offered:
- PPL, IR, CPL
- CFI/CFII
- Multi-Engine Add-ons
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $13,500 – $17,500
- Career Pilot Program: $55,000 – $72,000
Why Choose TFT?
Modern fleet, competitive fees, and flexible scheduling.
7. Quantum Aviation (Knoxville – McGhee Tyson Airport)
Quantum Aviation is a Knoxville-based flight academy operating at McGhee Tyson (TYS), offering training in a busy Class C airspace.
Programs Offered:
- PPL, IR, CPL
- Multi-Engine
- CFI/CFII
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $15,000 – $19,000
- CPL: $30,000 – $35,000
Why Choose Quantum Aviation?
Training in controlled airspace and strong airline-focused curriculum.
8. Murfreesboro Aviation
Murfreesboro Aviation is a professional flight school and full FBO that offers personalized training and access to well-maintained aircraft.
Programs Offered:
- PPL, IR, CPL
- Multi-Engine
- CFI/CFII
- Discovery Flights
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $14,000 – $18,000
- Full Professional Program: $55,000 – $75,000
Why Choose Murfreesboro Aviation?
High-quality instruction and modern aircraft options.
9. Flight Training International – Memphis Regional Area
This FAA-certified school provides specialized commercial pilot and ATP-level training for students seeking airline careers.
Programs Offered:
- CPL
- ATP
- Type Ratings (Airbus, Boeing)
Estimated Fees:
- CPL: $25,000 – $35,000
- ATP: $4,000 – $6,000
Why Choose FTI?
Ideal for pilots preparing for airline interviews or advanced certifications.
10. Avflight Flight School (Nashville)
Avflight operates at John C. Tune Airport and offers tailored flight training programs, especially for private and recreational pilots.
Programs Offered:
- Private Pilot License
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Pilot Training
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $12,000 – $15,000
- IR: $7,000 – $9,500
Why Choose Avflight?
Friendly pricing and training in a quieter airport environment than BNA.
11. Knoxville Flight Training (DKX – Island Home Airport)
Located at Island Home Airport, this school is excellent for beginners and student pilots who prefer training in a calm, stress-free airspace.
Programs Offered:
- PPL
- Instrument
- Commercial
- Tailwheel Endorsement
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $11,000 – $15,000
- CPL: $25,000 – $32,000
Why Choose Knoxville Flight Training?
Affordable, peaceful flight environment and experienced instructors.
12. Memphis Flyers Flight School
Memphis Flyers operates a growing training center at General DeWitt Spain Airport. Students love the small-school atmosphere and well-maintained fleet.
Programs Offered:
- Private
- Instrument
- Commercial
- Multi-Engine
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $12,000 – $16,000
- Full Commercial Pathway: $45,000 – $60,000
Why Choose Memphis Flyers?
Friendly team, quality ground school, and structured training plans.
13. Greeneville Aviation Services
Based at Greeneville Municipal Airport, this school is known for its personalized instruction and strong safety reputation.
Programs Offered:
- PPL
- IR
- Multi-Engine
- Commercial
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $10,500 – $14,500
- CPL: $25,000 – $30,000
Why Choose Greeneville Aviation?
Low costs, great instructors, commuter-friendly location.
14. Paris-Henry County Flight School (West Tennessee)
This small but well-equipped school trains student pilots from West Tennessee and surrounding regions.
Programs Offered:
- PPL
- Instrument
- Commercial
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $10,000 – $14,000
- Instrument: $6,000 – $9,000
Why Choose This School?
Affordable introductory training and extremely flexible schedules.
15. Tri-Cities Aviation Flight School
Serving northeast Tennessee (Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol), Tri-Cities Aviation offers structured pilot programs and modern aircraft.
Programs Offered:
- PPL
- IR
- CPL
- Tailwheel & High-Performance Training
Estimated Fees:
- PPL: $11,500 – $16,000
- CPL: $27,000 – $33,000
Why Choose Tri-Cities Aviation?
Great equipment, well-maintained fleet, and friendly instructors.
Average Flight Training Costs in Tennessee
Below is an overview of typical fees you can expect statewide:
| Pilot Certification | Average Cost in Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Private Pilot License (PPL) | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| Instrument Rating | $7,000 – $10,000 |
| Commercial Pilot License | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Multi-Engine Add-on | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| CFI/CFII | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Full Career Program | $55,000 – $80,000 |
Conclusion
Tennessee’s aviation schools offer excellent opportunities for both hobbyists and career-focused pilots. With a range of FAA-certified programs, modern aircraft, and highly trained instructors, the state continues to be one of the best locations for affordable and high-quality flight training.