Flight School Acquisitions

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April 24, 2026

by a searcher from Brigham Young University - Marriott School of Management in Charlotte, NC, USA

Hi SF! I recently remembered my aviation dreams and thought purchasing a part 61 and 141 flight school could be a great opportunity. Are there any flight school operators here who I could speak with to learn more about the industry?
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Reply by a searcher
from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Colorado Springs, CO, USA
Pilot and flight instructor here, and I looked at one deal. The requested terms were terrible (wanted a multiple on EBITDA, but then pay for the assets separately and in addition), so I didn't take it any farther than the first call. This seems like one of those businesses where it's best if you are already in aviation in some way. Are you? Things to look out for would be deferred maintenance in the aircraft and compliance risks, since it's a heavily-regulated industry. A common thing you hear when people buy an airplane is that first annual inspection or two are very expensive. You're essentially buying expensive assets.
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Reply by a searcher
from Kettering University (GMI) in Mooresville, NC, USA
Also a pilot... be aware that many universities like Auburn are making offerings in his space, beyond the typical big players like ATP. Concord is the closest ATP location to you. On the smaller side, you have "clubs" that can be 501c which you would be competing with.
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