Moberly Area Community College signed an agreement with ATD Flight Systems to provide FAA Part 141 flight instruction, aircraft, simulation equipment and professional training for MACC’s new Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Commercial Pilot program, according to a news release.

The partnership marks a major milestone in the launch of the College’s newest career pathway, with the first cohort of students scheduled to begin in Fall 2026. Applications are currently being accepted until April 2 for students interested in joining the inaugural class.

“Today’s announcement represents an exciting opportunity for MACC and the future pilots who
will begin their careers right here in Central Missouri,”

“By partnering with ATD Flight Systems — a proven leader in aviation training — we are expanding access to quality education, preparing students for high-demand careers, and strengthening our region’s workforce,” Todd Martin, president of MACC, said in the release. “This program reflects our commitment to innovation, student success, and real-world outcomes.”

MACC’s Aviation Commercial Pilot program is designed to prepare students for entry into the
dynamic and growing field of aviation as professional commercial pilots. The program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree, combining rigorous academic coursework with handson flight training.

Through the agreement, ATD Flight Systems will deliver comprehensive ground and flight
instruction, equipment, and training services. Students in the program will receive the training
required to earn the following FAA certifications:
• Private Pilot
• Instrument Rating
• Commercial Pilot

General education coursework for the degree may be completed online or at any MACC campus
location, providing flexibility for students across the region. Aviation-specific courses and flight
training will take place at the Columbia Regional Airport and in the former terminal building,
which has been renovated with classrooms, offices and training space.

Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, ATD Flight Systems brings nearly
three decades of aviation training excellence to the partnership. ATD has operated as a Part 141
flight training provider for 20 years and is known for its strong safety record, experienced
instructors, and industry relationships.

Under the agreement, ATD will maintain an optimal training ratio of:
• One aircraft for every five students
• One Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) for every five students

Students will train in four-seat Piper Archer aircraft, fully equipped with Instrument Flight
Rules avionics, ensuring exposure to industry-standard technology. ATD will also provide a
full-motion flight simulator, allowing students to experience dozens of aircraft configurations,
enhance situational awareness, and log valuable flight time in a controlled training environment.

To help prospective students learn more about the program, MACC began hosting virtual information sessions via Zoom on Jan. 9. The sessions will continue to be held weekly through March 31 and applicants who attend an information session will receive points toward their application during the selection process.

For more information about the Aviation Commercial Pilot program, to register for an upcoming
information session, or to access the application packet, visit:
https://www.macc.edu/aviation/