The U.S. Department of Transportation announced $26 million in FAA funding to support aviation workforce development, including programs focused on future pilots, drone operators, aviation mechanics, and maintenance technicians. The funding will support aviation training, apprenticeships and internships, student outreach, and expanded use of tools such as simulators to help strengthen the industry’s talent pipeline. NATA successfully advocated for expansion of the Aviation Workforce Development Grant Program in the FAA Reauthorization Law 0f 2024.
Eligible applicants include schools, aviation organizations, aviation-related nonprofits, air carriers, labor groups, and state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments. Applications are due June 18, 2026, through grants.gov. Read more.