VA Benefits (GI Bill®) Approved Flight Training — Smithfield, NC
Eligible veterans and service members can use VA education benefits for approved Part 141 flight training at Blue Line Aviation’s Smithfield, North Carolina campus.
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Select the path that matches where you are today.
Path A: I already have my Private Pilot License (PPL)
If you already hold a Private Pilot License, you may be eligible to use VA benefits for approved advanced training at our NC campus.Path B: I don’t have my PPL yet
VA eligibility for our approved courses begins after you have your Private Pilot License. If you’re earlier in your journey, we’ll help you map the fastest path to reach the VA-eligible training stage.Eligibility Requirements
To use GI Bill® benefits with Blue Line Aviation, you must:
- Hold a Private Pilot License (PPL)
- Have a 1st or 2nd Class FAA Medical
- Train at our Smithfield, North Carolina location
(Florida location will be online in the near future) - Be enrolled in an approved Part 141 course
You are able to take your Private Certification at Blue Line; however, the VA will not cover the costs of the Private Certification.
Programs currently approved for GI Bill® funding
Approved programs are delivered under Part 141 at our Smithfield, NC campus.
IFR
Instrument Rating
CSEL
Commercial Single Engine
CMEL
Commercial Multi Engine
CFI
Certified Flight Instructor
Frequently Asked Questions About the VA Program
How does the process work?
Submit your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
This confirms which VA chapter you’re eligible for.
Send Required Documents
We’ll request the items needed to verify eligibility and proceed.
We certify your enrollment
Once documents are complete, our School Certifying Official (SCO) enrolls you in the VA system and begins the certification process.
Monthly training schedules are submitted
After your first month of training, we submit monthly training schedules for funding.
Important payment details (by VA Chapter)
Please note that at this time, these are the only Chapters that provide for flight training.
Post 9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33)
- You typically pay up front (cash/loan) as normal.
- The VA pays the school, and once funds are received, we reimburse you by check.
Learn More about Chapter 33 Rates →
Montgomery GI Bill® (Chapter 30)
- VA pays monthly directly to the student (based on approved fees).
Learn More about Chapter 30 Rates →
Montgomery GI Selective Reserve (Chapter 1606)
- VA pays monthly directly to the student (based on approved fees).
Do I have to train in North Carolina?
Yes — current VA approval applies to training at our Smithfield, NC location. Approval for our Winter Haven, FL is in process and we'll update you when it's an available option.
Do I need a Private Pilot License (PPL)?
Yes — a PPL is required for the approved GI Bill®-funded programs listed above.
What should I submit first?
Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is the fastest way for us to confirm your chapter and next steps.