Flight Training Tuition
Tuition associated with qualifying flight training programs.
Many families may now have a reasonable basis to use 529 plan funds for ATP flight training.
Recent federal legislation expanded the types of educational programs that qualify for tax-free 529 plan distributions. As a result, FAA pilot certification programs like ATP Flight School's Airline Career Pilot Program and Flex Commercial Pilot Program may qualify under the updated law.
Because the IRS has not yet issued comprehensive guidance for flight training programs, ATP recommends consulting your CPA or tax advisor before using 529 funds.
Understanding the Change
Section 70414 of H.R. 1 (2025) expanded the definition of qualified education expenses under Section 529 to include many vocational, licensing, certification, and career training programs.
529 Plan Expenses
Depending on your tax advisor's guidance, 529 plan funds may potentially be used for expenses related to qualifying flight training and FAA certification.
Tuition associated with qualifying flight training programs.
FAA knowledge exams and practical tests required to earn pilot certificates and ratings.
Required books and other materials used as part of the training program.
Required equipment may include headsets, flight bags, and electronic flight materials.
Resources for Your CPA
To make the review process easier, ATP has prepared a summary of the new legislation and how it may apply to our flight training programs.
A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged education savings plan that can be used for certain qualified education expenses of a designated beneficiary. Federal law now includes certain postsecondary credentialing expenses among qualified 529 expenses.
Certain flight training expenses may qualify when the training is part of a qualifying postsecondary credential program and applicable requirements are met. ATP recommends consulting your CPA or tax advisor before taking a distribution.
Section 70414 of H.R. 1 (2025) expanded the definition of qualified education expenses under Section 529 to include certain postsecondary credentialing expenses.
Depending on the circumstances, potentially qualifying expenses may include flight training tuition, required books and supplies, qualifying equipment, and required testing associated with obtaining a recognized credential. Consult your tax professional to determine which expenses may qualify for your circumstances.
ATP recommends consulting your CPA or other qualified tax professional before requesting a distribution. Your tax professional can evaluate your individual circumstances and the applicable federal and state tax rules.
If you have questions about using a 529 plan to pay for flight training, our Student Finance team is happy to help explain ATP's programs and provide documentation for your tax professional.