What Is It Known For?
The Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA), founded in 1929, has established itself as a leader in aviation technician education. As a private institution, PIA specializes in aviation maintenance and avionics training, operating independently from state community college systems.
With an annual enrollment of approximately 500 students across its campuses, PIA focuses on hands-on learning experiences. This practical approach equips students with the necessary skills and safety knowledge to excel in the high-demand aviation industry. PIA’s longstanding commitment to quality education has positioned it as a respected name in aviation technician training.
Degrees & Certifications
PIA offers several credentials across its campuses:
- Associate in Specialize Technology (AST) degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology at its main Pittsburgh campus.
- Diplomas in Aviation Maintenance Technology at satellite campuses in Hagerstown, MD, and Youngstown, OH.
- Certificates in Aviation Maintenance are available at its Myrtle Beach, SC, location.
Class Schedules
Programs typically follow full-time schedules, requiring students to engage in hands-on training across structured morning and afternoon sessions. These courses incorporate extensive practical work, simulating real-world scenarios, but do not offer fully online or hybrid formats. All courses are designed to equip students with foundational and advanced skills in aviation maintenance.
Is It Legit?
Yes, Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), which certifies the quality and rigor of its career training programs. Additionally, PIA has approval from the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools, certifying that it meets Ohio’s standards for career-focused education.
Acceptance Rate
The Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) has an open admission policy, allowing applicants who meet basic criteria, such as a high school diploma or equivalent, to enroll.
How Much Does It Cost (Tuition)
Tuition at PIA varies by campus and program, ranging from approximately $20,000 to $45,000 for the entire program. PIA provides a net price calculator on its website to assist prospective students in estimating their expenses based on individual circumstances. Financial aid options are available for eligible students to help cover tuition costs.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Aviation Maintenance Technology
- Aviation Electronics Technology
Campus Locations
West Mifflin 5 Allegheny County Airport, West Mifflin, PA 15122
Hagerstown 14516 Pennsylvania Avenue, Hagerstown, MD 21742
Vienna 1501 Youngstown-Kingsville Rd NE H3, Vienna, OH 44473
Myrtle Beach 1038 Shine Avenue, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Reviews
Based on reviews in Google, the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) has an exceptionally strong reputation as a specialized trade school with a primary focus on career outcomes in the high-demand field of aviation maintenance. The school is consistently praised for its instructional staff and job placement success, offering a high return on investment (ROI) for graduates.
Overall Score: 4.5/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional Career Path and ROI: The school is highly effective in leading to great jobs and high salaries. Graduates report $66,233 median earnings five years after graduation, and the school is externally ranked as a top two-year trade school for ROI.
Knowledgeable and Supportive Instructors: Reviewers universally commend the teaching staff for being fair, experienced, and knowledgeable professionals who genuinely “want to see their students succeed” and are “always willing to help.”
Strong Focus on Practical Skills: The curriculum provides comprehensive training, with students affirming that the techniques and skills taught are valid and actively used in the field, leading to successful preparation for work.
Excellent Job Placement: The school boasts a high placement rate, with graduates often having a job lined up before graduation, supported by helpful career services staff.
Caring and Professional Environment: Multiple reviews emphasize that the management and staff “actually cares about the students” and fosters a respectful, supportive learning environment.
Common Crticisms
Poor Customer Service and Unprofessionalism: The most intense negative feedback is directed at the non-instructional, customer-facing aspects of the school, citing rudeness, name-calling, and frustrating experiences with unreturned calls during the admissions/inquiry phase.
Logistical Issues/Stress: Some students noted administrative rules that felt unnecessary or stressful, although these issues did not prevent them from successfully graduating and securing a job.
Program Scope: One reviewer mentioned attending a truck driving school branch, and another cautioned that the intensive, specialized nature of the program may not be suitable for everyone.
Momentum
The momentum for PIA is highly positive and sustained. The most recent reviews maintain the highest ratings, focusing on the quality of the program and successful career outcomes. The strong graduate earnings and high job placement rates, continually acknowledged by external ranking bodies, reinforce a powerful and consistent value proposition for students in the aviation and technical trades.