Achieving a Pilot's Certification as a Non-American Resident
The United States, famed for its aviation industry, has introduced a new rule by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that requires non-U.S. citizens to obtain TSA approval through the Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) before beginning flight training at any FAA-certified flight school or with individual flight instructors.
Effective July 30, 2024, the new TSA FTSP rule focuses on the type of training and introduces a time-based Security Threat Assessment (STA) model. The STA process ensures that individuals seeking flight training do not pose a security risk.
To initiate the application process, applicants must register on the FTSP official website and provide detailed information, including passport and visa documentation, citizenship history, fingerprints, and payment of the required fee. This process involves a security threat assessment (STA) to ensure the individual's eligibility.
Non-U.S. citizens must possess the appropriate visa, typically a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourist) visa, or proper authorization to train in the U.S. Certain situations do not require FTSP approval, such as training limited to ground school only, balloon, glider, ultralight flight training, discovery or introductory flights, training conducted by or endorsed by U.S. Department of Defense or Coast Guard, and some recurrent training like flight reviews or instrument proficiency checks that are not for maintaining/renewing type ratings.
The TSA charges a non-refundable processing fee for each STA application, currently ranging from $125-$140. After preliminary approval, applicants must submit their fingerprints at an approved location.
Once applicants receive their Determination of Eligibility from the TSA, they can begin their training with the chosen flight training provider. The Determination of Eligibility is valid for up to five years.
This process is critical to comply with U.S. security regulations related to aviation training. All flight training providers in the U.S. must be registered with the TSA and have a designated Security Coordinator.
After registering, applicants can continue the application process and check their training request status on the AFSP candidate home page. Upon payment, applicants will receive a "Preliminary Approval" notification from the TSA.
The U.S. remains a popular destination for flight training, attracting international students and U.S. residents alike. With the new TSA FTSP rule, the country continues to prioritise safety and security in its aviation training sector.
- Aspiring private, commercial, or flight instructors, regardless of their nationality, must obtain TSA approval through the Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) before commencing flight training in the United States.
- The new TSA FTSP rule prioritizes safety and security by assessing individuals' lifestyles and potential risks associated with the technology and sports industries as part of the Security Threat Assessment (STA) process.
- Upon receiving their Determination of Eligibility from the TSA, individuals can subsequently pursue instrument rating, private pilot, and commercial pilot training at FAA-certified flight schools or with individual flight instructors in the United States.
