About Kenai Aviation Training Academy

Training At Kenai Aviation

In Alaska, flying isn’t just a skill; it’s a way of life.

At Kenai Aviation Training Academy, we embrace this ethos wholeheartedly, training in the spirit of Alaskan bush flying.

From navigating through mountain passes to landing on remote airstrips, our students learn to master the challenges of flying in one of the most demanding environments on Earth. Through our very dedicated KATA instructors and team, students not only gain the technical skills needed to navigate the skies but also develop the instincts and judgment necessary to excel in any aviation career path they seek, from Alaska bush piloting to progression to larger airline jobs.

Beyond learning to fly, our school is founded on the principles of good-fellowship and camaraderie that are synonymous with Alaska’s tight-knit aviation community.

Our Curriculum

At Kenai Aviation offers flight training programs under both Part 141 and Part 61 curriculums.

The Part 141 curriculum is an FAA-approved systematic approach to flight training in standardized aircraft. With structured ground school sessions, comprehensive lesson plans, and rigorous proficiency standards, the Part 141 program is ideal for students seeking an accelerated path to certification.

For those who have prior training or already own their own aircraft, the Part 61 curriculum offers the freedom to tailor your training experience. With the ability to progress on your own path, Part 61 provides you the flexibility to achieve your goals on your terms. 

Financial barriers shouldn’t stand in the way of pursuing your passion for flight. We’ve partnered with reputable institutions like Meritize and Stratus Financial to offer flexible financing options tailored to your needs.

Through Meritize, students can access innovative financing solutions that consider academic achievements alongside credit history, providing competitive rates and flexible repayment terms.

Stratus Financial specializes in aviation-specific financing, offering personalized guidance and support for flight training, aircraft purchases, and other aviation-related expenses.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help make your aviation dreams a reality at Kenai Aviation Training Academy.

  1. Personalized Training Plan Setup: Schedule a meeting with one of our instructors to discuss future goals and needs and create a customized training plan tailored to your needs. 

  2. Financial Consultations: Discuss financing options with our team, including innovative solutions from partners like Meritize and Stratus Financial, as well as the plethora of scholarships available to the average aspiring pilot. All made available to make flight training more accessible and affordable.

  3. Gleim Aviation Training Kit: The Gleim Aviation Training Kit is a comprehensive study package designed to prepare you for the FAA written exam and checkride. It includes textbooks, online study materials, practice tests, and more. This kit serves as a valuable resource for self-study and review, helping you build a solid foundation of aviation knowledge.

If you have any other questions about training, financing, or preparing to begin your pilot journey, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

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Mission of Kenai Aviation Training Academy

Kenai Aviation Training Academy seeks to cultivate instinctual, skillful pilots who not only excel in professional piloting but also form lifelong connections and contribute meaningfully to our community.

Kenai Aviation Training Academy Team

Keith Ham // Chief Pilot, DPE

With his 25 year history in Alaskan bush aviation, as well as his tendency to “mentor the mentors” from his over 15,000 flight hours; Keith keeps our instructors on their toes. With over 5000 hours of instruction given since 1997, with much of that as a trainer in the demanding commercial environment, Keith is a deep well of knowledge. Every student performs stage checks with him and benefits from everything that Keith brings to the table.

 

Liam Barry // Assistant Chief

William “Liam” Barry is our training academy’s Assistant Chief Flight Instructor, with a wealth of experience in aviation and flight instruction. With his CFI, CFII, and multi engine ratings, he has logged over 1100 hours of flight time and over 800 hours of instruction given. His unique expertise in teaching has placed him as our training academy’s head instructor. In his spare time, he indulges in Alaska’s outdoor treasures, exploring the wilderness on a motorcycle or in an airplane.

Aviation is a dance between man and machine, where skill, knowledge, and intuition intertwine.