Career Pilot Technology Pathway A.A.S.

Career Pilot Technology curriculum prepares individuals for a variety of aviation and aviation-related careers including commercial airlines, general aviation, the aerospace industry, the military, and state and federal aviation organizations.

Course work includes fundamentals of flight, aerodynamics, aircraft performance, meteorology, navigation, federal regulations, aviation management, and instrument and commercial ground and flight training.

Graduates will hold a commercial pilot certificate (license) with an instrument rating. Graduates may find employment as commercial, corporate, and military pilots, and flight instructors.

The Aviation Management & Career Pilot Technology program is approved by:

Federal Aviation Administration

800 Independence Avenue
Washington, DC 20591
Phone: (703) 230-1664
Website: Federal Aviation Administration website

Federal Aviation Administration
Charlotte Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)

3800 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 233
Charlotte, NC 28273
Phone: (704) 319-7020
Website: Federal Aviation Administration Charlotte Office website

Specific Requirements

Degree students will be required to purchase and wear uniforms while attending class. First-year students will wear blue shirts (captain shirt for Career Pilot degree students and button-down "oxford" shirt for Aviation Management degree students) and navy blue pants. Second-year students will wear white shirts (captain shirt for Career Pilot degree students and button-down "oxford" shirt for Aviation Management degree students) and navy blue pants. Both Aviation Management and Career Pilot uniforms also include a black leather belt and black leather shoes. Uniforms include the A-B Tech Aviation logo and must be purchased at Read’s Uniforms in Asheville, NC. Students must purchase at least one (1) complete uniform appropriate to their year and pathway. Students are encouraged to purchase more than one uniform. Uniforms vary in price from approximately $150 (Aviation Management uniform) to $225 (Career Pilot uniform). Additional uniforms can be purchased at a discounted cost.
For Career Pilot students, the cost of flight training is a separate cost paid to WNC Aviation. The cost of flight training is estimated to be $12,000 for the Private Pilot license, $9,000 for the Instrument Rating, and $25,000 for the Commercial Pilot license. Payment for flight training is billed by and paid directly to the flight school, not A-B Tech. The College is only responsible for collecting tuition and fees for academic courses. Note that Aviation Management students do not incur the added expense of flight training. Payment arrangements for flight lessons must be made prior to the start of any flight lessons.
Career Pilot students must obtain an FAA Medical Certificate. A list of local aviation medical examiners (AMEs) can be found at http://www.faa.gov/Pilots/amelocator/. The FAA Medical Certificate is not required prior to starting academic courses but is required prior to starting flight training. The cost is approximately $100. Veterans utilizing their benefits for flight/academic training must obtain a 2nd Class Medical Certificate prior to starting flight lessons.
Students seeking the Career Pilot option must complete their Private Pilot flight training, and possess a current and valid FAA Private Pilot certificate prior to being admitted into this degree pathway. Students aspiring to enter the Career Pilot pathway can still enter the Aviation program as Aviation Management students initially. Once the Private Pilot certificate (license) is obtained, the student may switch to the Career Pilot pathway. Students in this scenario can, and should, still perform regular flight lessons to progress through flight training for the Private Pilot certificate.

Courses requiring a grade of "C" or better: ACA, AER

Note: A-B Tech does not offer AER-151 Flight- Private Pilot as part of the Career Pilot pathway. To earn your private pilot certificate (license), you can complete your training at our flight school provider, WNC Aviation, at any other FAA-certified flight school, or with any FAA-certified flight instructor. Once you obtain your private pilot certificate, you will receive credit via licensure for the AER-151 course.

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
AER-151		1
This course provides the hands-on training needed to qualify for a Federal Aviation Administration private pilot certificate. Topics include flight maneuvers (ground procedures, take-offs, climbs, level flight, turns, glides, stalls, slow flight, descents, slips, landings, emergency procedures) and cross-country planning and navigation. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the competencies required for the flight test practical exam for the private pilot certificate. View course details for Flight-Private Pilot ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
ACA-115		1
This course provides an orientation to the campus resources and academic skills necessary to achieve educational objectives. Emphasis is placed on an exploration of facilities and services, study skills, library skills, self-assessment, wellness, goal-setting, and critical thinking. Upon completion, students should be able to manage their learning experiences to successfully meet educational goals. View course details for Success & Study Skills ‌‌
AER-110		3
This course covers the basic elements of air navigation, fundamentals of pilotage and dead reckoning, and the use of a plotter, computer, and aerial charts. Topics include pilotage, dead reckoning, radio navigation, LORAN, Global Positioning Systems, and the use of FAA publications. Upon completion, students should be able to interpret aeronautical charts and apply navigational principles. View course details for Air Navigation ‌‌
AER-113		2
This course covers the basic elements of air navigation, fundamentals of pilotage and dead reckoning, and the use of a plotter, computer, and aerial charts. Topics include pilotage, dead reckoning, radio navigation, LORAN, Global Positioning Systems, and the use of FAA publications. Upon completion, students should be able to interpret aeronautical charts and apply navigational principles. View course details for History of Aviation ‌‌
AER-150		3
This course covers the aeronautical knowledge required to meet the Federal Aviation Administration regulations for private pilot certification. Topics include the principles of flight, the flight environment, basic aircraft systems and performance, basic meteorology and weather data interpretation, and FAA regulations. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the competencies required for the FAA written examination for a private pilot certificate. View course details for Private Pilot Flight Theory ‌‌
ENG-111		3
This course is designed to develop the ability to produce clear writing in a variety of genres and formats using a recursive process. Emphasis includes inquiry, analysis, effective use of rhetorical strategies, thesis development, audience awareness, and revision. Upon completion, students should be able to produce unified, coherent, well-developed essays using standard written English. This is a Universal General Education Transfer Component (UGETC) course that satisfies English Composition. View course details for Writing and Inquiry ‌‌
MAT-121		3
This course provides an integrated approach to technology and the skills required to manipulate, display, and interpret mathematical functions and formulas used in problem-solving. Topics include basic geometric and proportion applications; simplification, evaluation, and solving of algebraic and radical functions; complex numbers; right triangle trigonometry; and systems of equations. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the ability to use mathematics and technology for problem-solving, analyzing and communicating results. View course details for Algebra/Trigonometry I ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
AER-111		3
This course covers the atmosphere, interpretation and measurement of meteorological elements, and the effects of such on aircraft operations and performance. Topics include heat exchanges in the atmosphere; temperature, pressure, stability, clouds, air masses, fronts, and thunderstorms; and the use and interpretation of weather data. Upon completion, students should be able to analyze weather data for flight planning and safe flying. View course details for Aviation Meteorology ‌‌
AER-160		3
This course covers the required aeronautical knowledge of the Federal Aviation Administration Regulation Instrument Ground School. Topics include a study of instruments, systems, instrument flight charts, instrument flight planning, approach procedures, and IFR regulations. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the competencies required to complete the FAA written examination for an instrument rating. View course details for Instrument Flight Theory ‌‌
AER-161		2
This course covers instruction and training in instrument flight planning including IFR navigation, VOR, ILS, ADF, and compliance with ATC procedures. Emphasis is placed on approach and navigation procedures, including holding and missed approaches, and development of skill in executing en route and approach procedures. Upon completion, students should be able to plan and execute an IFR flight and demonstrate competencies required for the FAA instrument pilot flight exam. View course details for Flight - Instrument Pilot ‌‌
COM-231		3
This course provides instruction and experience in preparation and delivery of speeches within a public setting and group discussion. Emphasis is placed on research, preparation, delivery, and evaluation of informative, persuasive, and special occasion public speaking. Upon completion, students should be able to prepare and deliver well-organized speeches and participate in a group discussion with appropriate audiovisual support. This is a Universal General Education Transfer Component (UGETC) course that satisfies Communication. View course details for Public Speaking ‌‌
PHY-110		3
This course provides a conceptually-based exposure to the fundamental principles and processes of the physical world. Topics include basic concepts of motion, forces, energy, heat, electricity, magnetism, and the structure of matter and the universe. Upon completion, students should be able to describe examples and applications of the principles studied. Nonmathematical discussions of concepts and practical applications will be stressed. This is a Universal General Education Transfer Component (UGETC) course that satisfies Natural Sciences. View course details for Conceptual Physics ‌‌
PHY-110A		1
This course is a laboratory for PHY 110. Emphasis is placed on laboratory experiences that enhance materials presented in PHY 110. Upon completion, students should be able to apply the laboratory experiences to the concepts presented in PHY 110. This course has been approved to satisfy the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement general education core requirement in natural science/mathematics. This is a Universal General Education Transfer Component (UGETC) course that satisfies Natural Sciences. View course details for Conceptual Physics Lab ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
AER-114		3
This course covers the operation of a flight department on a cost-effective basis and analysis of profit and loss statements. Topics include flight operations costs, aircraft acquisition analysis and cost comparisons, costs versus revenue, and break-even points. Upon completion, students should be able to calculate the cost of flight operations and apply monthly and annual budget analysis. View course details for Aviation Management ‌‌
AER-215		3
This course covers the basic procedures and practices of aircraft accident prevention, accident investigation, and reporting. Topics include a comprehensive review of federal regulations pertinent to aviation safety and analyses of actual aviation accident cases and their causes. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding and respect for specific personal factors such as attitude, motivation, and skill related to flight safety. View course details for Flight Safety ‌‌
AER-218		2
This course analyzes interpersonal relationships in the cockpit and related psychological factors that affect pilot performance and efficiency during flight operations. Topics include cockpit management, judgment, aircraft and flight crew coordination and control, physiological factors, responsibility, and decision-making capabilities. Upon completion, students should be able to apply work-proven routines to stress management, crew responsibility, and the team concept in the cockpit. View course details for Human Factors in Aviation ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
AER-112		2
This course provides an in-depth study of the state, federal, and international regulations forming the structure of aviation law. Emphasis is placed on Federal Aviation Regulations Parts 61, 91, and 135 with additional emphasis on legal issues in aviation law. Upon completion, students should be able to apply legal principles and interpret federal air regulations. View course details for Aviation Laws and FARs ‌‌
AER-170		3
This course covers advanced aircraft control, cross-country operations, and other topics required for the FAA commercial pilot written exam. Emphasis is placed on the principles of aircraft performance and operation, take-off performance, cruise performance, descent and landing performance, and weight and balance computations. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate commercial pilot skills and competence in the materials required for the FAA written commercial pilot examination. View course details for Commercial Flight Theory ‌‌
AER-216		3
This course introduces piston and turbine aircraft engines and associated systems. Topics include aircraft hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, air conditioning, and pressurization systems along with the theory of engine operations, including power and thrust computations. Upon completion, students should be able to apply principles of engine and systems operation. View course details for Engines & Systems ‌‌
CIS-110		3
This course introduces computer concepts, including fundamental functions and operations of the computer. Topics include the identification of hardware components, basic computer operations, security issues, and use of software applications. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the role and function of computers and use the computer to solve problems. Microsoft Office will be used in this course; this includes Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint. View course details for Introduction to Computers ‌‌
PSY-150		3
This course provides an overview of the scientific study of human behavior. Topics include history, methodology, biopsychology, sensation, perception, learning, motivation, cognition, abnormal behavior, personality theory, social psychology, and other relevant topics. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic knowledge of the science of psychology. This is a Universal General Education Transfer Component (UGETC) course that satisfies Social/Behavioral Sciences. View course details for General Psychology ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
AER-210		3
This course covers basic and advanced principles of aerodynamic phenomena and fluid flow. Topics include airflow phenomena; lift/weight/thrust/drag; aircraft configuration characteristics, stability, and control; subsonic, transonic, and supersonic flight; critical Mach numbers; and the V-g Diagram. Upon completion, students should be able to explain the elements of applied aerodynamics and aeronautical engineering which relate directly to the problems of flight operations. View course details for Flight Dynamics ‌‌
AER-211		2
This course provides a detailed analysis of all aspects of air traffic control. Emphasis is placed on an in-depth analysis of air traffic control, including the utilization of the air traffic environment based on the pilot's and controller's perspective. Upon completion, students should be able to operate an aircraft within the national airspace system under FAA air traffic control. View course details for Air Traffic Control ‌‌
AER-217		3
This course covers the development and present status of the air transportation system. Topics include federal legislation, characteristics and classification of air carriers, development of the air traffic control system, and the organization and function of the FAA. Upon completion, students should be able to relate the knowledge acquired to career development. View course details for Air Transportation ‌‌
HUM-115		3
This course introduces the use of critical thinking skills in the context of human conflict. Emphasis is placed on evaluating information, problem-solving, approaching cross-cultural perspectives, and resolving controversies and dilemmas. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate orally and in writing the use of critical thinking skills in the analysis of appropriate texts. This course has been approved for transfer under the CAA as a general education course in Humanities/Fine Arts. View course details for Critical Thinking ‌‌
AER-171		3
This course provides the hands-on training needed to qualify for a Federal Aviation Administration commercial pilot certificate. Topics include flight instruction in advanced precision maneuvers, maximum performance take-off and landings, emergency procedures, operation of complex aircraft, aircraft performance, and range and fuel planning. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in the areas of the flight test practical exam for the commercial pilot certificate. View course details for Flight - Commercial Pilot ‌‌

Total Credit Hours Required:

Students aspiring to enter the Career Pilot degree pathway can still enter the Aviation program as Aviation Management students initially. Once the Private Pilot certificate (license) is obtained, the student may switch to the Career Pilot pathway.

See advisor for General Education substitutes.

Curriculum is based on the 2023-24 catalog.

Why General Education?

You may be asking yourself, “Why do I have to take (course name) when it is not directly related to my major?”

General Education courses will help you develop skills necessary to be successful in your major and in life. General Education can teach you how to talk to your employer, write a paper in a major course, understand interest rates on your car, and much more. General Education can also give you the skills to be a better member of society and a more informed citizen. Critical thinking, global understanding, and appreciation for the human experience are hallmarks of a well-rounded education.

How many hours of General Education do I have to take?

If you are enrolled in an Associate of Applied Science Degree program, a minimum of 15 general education hours are required in the following categories:

Six hours from Communication
Three hours from Humanities & Fine Arts
Three hours from Social & Behavioral Science
Three hours from Natural Science & Mathematics

General Education courses have been pre-selected for you by your faculty from the following list:

Communication	Humanities & Fine Arts	Social & Behavioral Science	Natural Science & Mathematics
COM-110	ART-111	ECO-251	BIO-161
COM-120	ART-114	ECO-252	BIO-163
COM-231	ART-115	HIS-111	BIO-168
ENG-110	HUM-110	HIS-112	MAT-110
ENG-111	HUM-115	HIS-131	MAT-121
ENG-112	MUS-110	HIS-132	MAT-143
ENG-114	MUS-112	POL-120	MAT-152
	PHI-215	PSY-150	MAT-171
	PHI-240	SOC-210	PHY-110/110A
		SOC-225	PHY-121

Degrees designed to transfer to universities require more general education hours. If you are enrolled in the Associate in Arts or Associate in Science, you are required to take 45 hours of General Education from the following categories:

Six hours in English Composition
Six to nine hours in Communication / Humanities & Fine Arts
Six to nine hours in Social & Behavioral Sciences
Three to eight hours in Mathematics
Four to eight hours in Natural Sciences
11 to 14 additional General Education hours

If you are enrolled in the Associate in Engineering, you are required to take 42 general education hours from the following:

Six hours in English Composition
Six hours in Communication / Humanities & Fine Arts
Six work hours in Social & Behavioral Sciences
12 hours in Mathematics
12 hours in Natural Sciences

If you are enrolled in the Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts, you are required to take 25 general education hours from the following:

Six hours in English Composition
Six hours in Communication / Humanities & Fine Arts
Six hours in Social & Behavioral Sciences
Three to four hours in Mathematics
Four hours in Natural Sciences

Additional information about General Education for transfer degrees, including courses that satisfy each category, may be found in the current College Catalog.

What will I learn in General Education?

At A-B Tech, our faculty have designed a general education core so that A-B Tech graduates will
learn the following:

Students will critically evaluate information:

Students will demonstrate information literacy.
Students will critique works of human expression.
Students will analyze scientific literature.

Students will solve problems:

Students will identify processes.
Students will analyze problems.
Students will interpret the results.
Students will recommend appropriate strategies or solutions.

Students will effectively communicate.

Students will communicate appropriately about the subject.
Students will communicate appropriately with the audience.
Students will communicate appropriately for the medium.

Ever wonder how A-B Tech awards credit for a certain course?

A-B Tech complies with the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges Code, so your courses are assigned the course level and receive the same amount of credit as courses at all 58 North Carolina Community Colleges.

If you want to read more about this, see the A-B Tech Policy and Procedure for the Assignment of Course Level Credit.