Texas State University his partnering with Sky Safety pilot flight training to expand its Aviation Science degree program to the Greater San Antonio area.
This latest partnership further helps address the growing national demand for airline and commercial pilots. The program, by TXST’s Department of Organization, Workforce and Leadership Studies (OWLS), will begin admitting students to the aviation program at Stinson Municipal Airport for classes starting in Fall 2026.
“Texas State University is helping lead the expansion of the aviation industry, and Sky Safety, with nearly 30 years of professional training experience, is well positioned to support that mission by delivering elite, real world flight training to Texas State students
in the Greater San Antonio area.” said Jerry Yang, President of Sky Safety. “At Stinson
Municipal Airport, Texas State and Sky Safety are working together to develop professional pilots and aviation leaders who will strengthen the region’s role in shaping the future of aviation."
Designed to meet students where they are, both academically and geographically, the bachelor of applied arts and science in Aviation Science integrates professional flight training directly into the degree plan, so students build credentials and career readiness
simultaneously.
The B.A.A.S. with a major in Aviation Science will provide a pathway to certifications and licensure required for professional pilots along with the critical thinking, teamwork and leadership skills valued by the commercial aviation industry. Sky Safety will provide flight training at Stinson Municipal Airport.
“This partnership allows Texas State University to reach students where they are, making it easier to obtain an aviation degree and earn a high-paying job as a professional pilot, helping address the nation’s growing pilot shortage.” said TXST President Kelly Damphousse.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that during the decade spanning 2022-2032, the demand for commercial pilots will grow nationally by more than 5,600 positions, an increase of more than 4%. About 16,800 openings for commercial pilots are projected each year, on average, over this time spans, with many of those openings resulting from the need to replace pilots reaching mandatory retirement.
The Aviation Science program is currently accepting applications for Arizona, California, Kansas, Georgia, Texas and Utah. Future locations include Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada and New Mexico pending state authorization approval.
For more information, visit the TXST Aviation website.