Welcome to The Airline Academy

Established in 1972, we have become one of the finest aviation training facilities in the world.

Students from over 63 countries, in addition to all fifty states, have attended our programs. In 1995, customer service and flight attendant training were added to the curriculum to meet the ongoing personnel needs of the commercial airline industry. Today, our airline customer service and flight attendant students receive hands-on training at the multi-million-dollar JetBlue University in Orlando, Florida, including emergency evacuation training in a real airline training environment and access to a full-motion simulator that meets FAR 121 standards.

Our placement team includes current flight attendants, former flight attendants, and a former airline recruiter. Each graduating class is afforded the opportunity to interview with various carriers upon graduation under the guidance of our staff. The Airline Academy holds a letter of exemption from the State of Florida Board of Education through its contract training partnerships with FAA Part 121 certified air carriers.

Group of airline employees standing in front of a sign that says 'The Airline Academy,' all dressed in white shirts and red neckties or scarves, smiling for the photo.

Our Mission

To provide a low-cost, short-term program designed to maximize your education while minimizing time away from home and in the classroom. Our focused curriculum equips you with the essential skills needed to gain a competitive edge and succeed in the airline industry.

Group of diverse airline employees in uniform, smiling outside a building.

A Legacy Of Excellence

Founder Nino Ciancetta retired as US Airways’ all-time senior pilot, logging over 40,000 flight hours. His leadership extended beyond the cockpit, serving as Vice President of the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA), Chairman of the Aviation Safety Board, and a member of President Richard Nixon’s Aviation Advisory Board. We have continued honoring this legacy since 1972, providing airlines with the highest quality candidates and shaping the future of aviation as our founder saw it.

Black-and-white portrait of a man in a formal military uniform, wearing glasses and a hat with an emblem.

Nino Ciancetta Founder of The Airline Academy

Following his service with the Air Force, Nino began flight instructing and was president of Capital Aerial Advertising. His commercial airline career began with Resort International Airlines and he retired as captain for US Airways following 31 years of service. In conjunction with his airline career, he was vice president of the Airline Pilots Association, Region I, as well as Regional Safety Chairman of A.L.P.A. He played a leading role in airline safety as we know it today. Following his chairmanship with A.L.P.A., Nino started his own flight school and commuter airline. After moving his operation to Daytona Beach Florida, he founded Phoenix East Aeronautical Institute and The Airline Academy.

Proud Affiliates

Logos of FATA, Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce, BBB, Alaska Air Carriers Association, and National Air Transportation Association.