FREE FLIGHT TRAINING | Veteran Readiness & Education VR&E Formerly Vocational Rehabilitation

[@alleng012985]

Mine is 100%...Trying to get VR&E is tough, man!

[@Terribleguitarist89]

Former Security Forces troop and current defense contractor here... I've had several friends make their way to the helo and drone programs through the VA but I've been dragging my feet. Your video broke it down to the point I actually feel comfortable jumping into the process... Well when I'm not oconus that is.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Stay safe

[@10oner]

Dont do it. Theres no jobs out there but the 5 helicopter liscenses do look cool in my wallet next to my ebt card and extended stay hotel room key cuz im homeless

[@CristoSaves]

Pilots are definitely needed right now for sure.

[@10oner]

This is a complete lie

[@Okieonez]

I just had vre orientation yesterday. I submitted paperwork asking for flight school. This video helped me feel confident about asking.. thank you!

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Love it! Good Luck.

[@dummer82]

Any luck on getting it approved? I just started the process, any advice?

[@FloridaRazed]

Same

[@loganpaullovesmemetcals4763]

You got my subscription with the noner comment thank you!

[@jordanjames9140]

Awesome vid and info bro! Would be a dream if VRE covered Part 61 flight training even if just Commercial and CFI. Got my PPL at 32 years old and it’s crazy to pick up and move a family to a new city for a 141 school when all the instruction is available at a reputable Part 61 flight school minutes away. “Veterans Readiness & Employment *but only if you’re getting a degree” … Thankful these opportunities exist but seems wild they’d rather pay for a $50k dance therapy degree than help aspiring aviators fast track through Commercial and CFI. Would be cheaper too I’d think, done bitching lol

[@tshkjrpihpniubog]

This just gave me such a boost of confidence. Thanks so much for all this information!! Fellow MFE shithead at Ramstein right now looking to be a pilot when my enlistment ends. Had the same exact thought process, why work on fixing the aircraft when i could be the one breaking parts hahah glad to see another jet troop out here doing good things

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

The only thing I say about this is, don't wait. You can start with using TA and CLEPs to finish your CCAF and then start on your prerequisites. If you take enough classes you can qualify for FAFSA and make money going to school while you're enlisted. Then stash that money away for flying.

[@IsaacLopez-ee9zw]

Former MFE here as well! Just got out and starting flight training in the Spring. Still trying to figure out the best way to go about it financially!

[@Terminus591]

Thank you so much for telling your story and putting out this info.

[@protondanman6454]

Hey brother… we have a lot in common… from Navarre / Pensacola Florida, was in Navy myself, but piloted a submarine single stick controls. Have been a contract engineer in aviation since 2007 at with last job on VC25B as functional test sup. - Boeing - Bombardier - Gulfstream - Butler Aero & Defense Now I’m ready for a change… In Dallas Texas with no job at moment so I think I’m ready to pursue

[@texasorginal]

Funny story... Navy, 17yrs; IT. Should have gotten out at 12, but wanted to try the long road. Got out in 17 instead. 5/21 I started the iacar application. never finished it. on 2/22 I contacted VR&E for aviation because I knew what I was doing isn't what I wanted to do. Fast forward to last week, I'm working on enrolling with LUO and using a school in Addison for flying. Hope it works out as smoothly as you've mentioned. Fingers crossed.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Good luck brother

[@hoaxial2090]

Which school in Addison?

[@texasorginal]

american flyers. thrust flight is there also, but i think that is more if you know you are 100% wanting to fly professionally.@@hoaxial2090

[@princearthur4946]

Excellent presentation! I am a 100% disable veteran. I am a former flight engineer with the A&P license. My question is: Do you know if VA would pay for a complete zero to commercial flight training program?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

After you get your private, yes.

[@RyanB.222]

I am a disabled veteran and want to go this route to become a pilot.

[@prasantpatel2264]

I am excited about the info you gave. I just retired after 24 years of service and I want to fly Commersial planes some day. My goal was to go to ATP school but the cost is too high and I can’t use my benefits there. I will look into Liberty University as well to see if I can get into a program there. I live in Spring, TX so I’m glad there is a near by option to do this as I saw on your video when you selected Texas. Thank you for the video and I wish I could maybe contact you to get some more advice on how you did your courses.

[@marcusrodriguez9867]

I live in Katy were you able to find anything?

[@caltagerone77]

I retired 4 months ago and I'm now attending Liberty University. One thing you should know about the VR&E program is that it cannot be used in conjunction with GI bill benefits. Additionally, it cannot be used to pay for a private pilot license.

[@dummer82]

How are things looking for you? Did you get approved?

[@OR_Wolfhunter]

Just stumbled upon this video. Great info brotha! I’m currently trying to work with a school and the VA to get things squared away. Supposably there’s some f’d up things going on in my state with Voc Rehab so wish me luck lol

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Best of luck!

[@tehdawson]

How'd it go?

[@RobsPilotTraining]

Update to this: I talked with my VR&E councilor yesterday and she advised that the program had recently changed and getting flight training to become a pilot is no longer offered. You can still get request flight training to become an instructor though. Additionally, the Liberty University website even states they no longer accept any VA payments for flight school at all of their affiliated schools.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

This is a temporary thing. I am not worried about it. www.reddit.com/r/flying/comments/14th693/update_on_liberty_university_and_ftas/

[@BrooksE3D]

well that sucks.. just raise and crushed my dreams yet again in past 10 mins ;/

[@SaluteTheVet]

So vre doesn’t pay for the flight training only the college part?

[@RobsPilotTraining]

@@SaluteTheVet if you get accepted into the program, they will pay for all of the college classes and all the Flight training as long as it is focused on getting a degree.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

@SaluteTheVet it’ll pay for everything after the private pilot.

[@adventuresofpau9403]

Thank you for the info! I go to Liberty and their FTA. Unfortunately, I was denied for VR&E this Friday. Will try to apply again though.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Best of luck!

[@codyg3294]

Thank you for all of the information, it really helps.

[@ThelastLowery]

Great Video Brother! You think you could make a video detailing any difficulty we might face in attempting to acquire our piloting certifications. Difficulties in the sense of the training and academic side. I’m a newly discharged marine and I’m considering going the piloting route. I just want to know what to expect first hand. Thanks

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I'm working on a video about firing a flight instructor. That's a big one. Not many people know they can do it. Even fewer know when you should.

[@treylem3]

Great info, brother. Thank you

[@lxsmith2]

Subscribed just off the name of the channel!

[@MrHash710]

I have my orientation this week

[@hcs5gunner968]

Thanks for the excellent information

[@danieljimenez5595]

Subscribed, Great video! What’s your end goal? What are you going to do to build up your hours? Is your degree program allowing you to get additional certifications like instrument, R-ATP (I think that’s a cert), multi engine, etc?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I want to go fly for a living like the rest of us. I'm planning on going the instructor route. It's one of the few paths to hours without being well connected or independently wealthy. Instrument is usually built in to programs. the general path after private is; instrument, commercial, CFI, CFII, multi-engine, MEI, MEII. Liberty includes all this. With all that you'll have about 300 hrs. then you need about 1000 before someone other than a flight school will hire you. ATP is 1500hrs with a bunch of specific hour requirements. R-ATP is a reduction to 1250 hrs if you get a degree in flying from an approved program.

[@jrivord08]

@@BurnoutsAndRotorblades On Liberty's website they say they are approved for the 1,000 hr R-ATP

[@neallambert962]

Hey Brian I sent you an email in regards to this video and your prior video covering the gi bill. I had a few extra questions I was hoping you could answer. Thanks!

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Got it!

[@weightupmountainguy]

So you’re saying “it would be badass to fly helicopters” isn’t good enough a reason for the counselor to approve you?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

At one time it was. Then greedy people got caught defrauding the system and uncle sam tightened the purse strings and made it harder for everyone else.

[@gr8scott413]

First and foremost, GREAT VIDEO! I'm attempting to use VR&E for the "Long-Term Service Track" seeking a career as a Pilot. I was directed to apply for these VA benefits 1st because Post 9/11 most likely won't cover all the expenses with a degree program, so here I am. I attained my Private Pilot License/Cert last month which I was told was a requirement for VR&E. My appointment with my VRC is scheduled for 30 November. I'll let you know how it goes. Any additional feedback or advice from anyone would be greatly appreciated.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Just don’t back down. Remember, everyone has a boss.

[@gr8scott413]

Whoa! 😮 I did not get an approval...however, she gave me a laundry list items to acquire and provide within the next 30 days and she'll use that to see about submitting me for approval. Initially, I could tell her goal was to convince me that it would be impossible to get approved for VR&E due to changes in the program and how "Florida" views using this program for flight training 🙄. THIS VIDEO DEFINITELY HELPED ME STAND MY GROUND AND FIGHT FOR THIS ENTITLEMENT. I'll keep you all posted.

[@gr8scott413]

​@@BurnoutsAndRotorbladesI was approved for VR&E...thanks again!

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

@gr8scott413 awesome and congratulations!

[@JMFRO92]

Think I'll get approved if ive already graduated from liberty with my commercial. Want to go back and get my cfi and multi engine. 😅

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Not sure. Make sure to comment back so others can benefit from your experience.

[@Divinitus9]

Great information. Did you have any troubles convincing VR&E to allow your chosen path? I'm in the process of laying out my plan, and my VRE rep is really supportive of my goal and is impressed how well informed I am about becoming a Commercial Pilot.. from what she tells me she's heard from her peers is that "management" will turn everyone away that wants to go to school for CP.. I mentioned how you've been accepted so that it is possible. I'm applying to Purdue in the next week, and I'm hoping with an acceptance letter they'll approve me.. if not I can appeal, or just use some GI Bill and reapply for VRE.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

There would have to be a higher level review process. However, when most people hit a dead end with the VA they write their congressman or the local news. Lets hope they just approve it.

[@swimfly2012]

Dude awesome video!! I need to get my 10% disability first.. how long should that take? I also looked into the liberty aviation program, but I heard you first need your private pilots license. Is that true?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Yes. But if you watch my other video on flight training I break down how to budget your money from FAFSA / GI Bill / BAH to make the program funds pay for the private.

[@ImperialGamingZone]

Quick comment on this. I been approved for VR&E but my Councelor says I need a private pilot license but I know a school that has their own planes and can do PPL as part of the degree. My question is can I just tell my Councelor that I will fund the PPL myself and not to worry about that funding and just fund the program? My Councelor doesn’t want to approve flight training without me having PPL license. He wants me to pursue my other path cybersecurity which is really not my passion or interest

[@montanapicker3189]

Great video! I also watched your video on using the 9/11 GI Bill to finance flight training. Do you know if it's possible to use your GI Bill to get your fixed-wing ratings at a part 61 flight school? I work full time and in my area there are only part 61 schools. Thanks in advance and safe flying!

[@alfierileo]

Hey what's up I've been in your situation. There's only part 61 schools in my home town. I had to move to Hawaii for a part 141 flight school. The part 61 schools just aren't it when it comes to using any sort of benefits only part 141 schools so be prepared to drive far/ move.

[@الالعربي]

Thanks for the information brother

[@primetimepropertysolutions2089]

Man brother. I’m a Veteran myself. I’m barely coming too. I have always wanted to fly! I’m here this horrible state of California. Southern California area. What flight school would you recommend?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Well, unfortunately the VA has made it to where Liberty University can no longer use it's flight affiliates for VA students. Your best bet is to get on the phone and call around to every school and flight school in your area. The approvals of flight programs come-and-go at the whim of the VA so it's hard to keep track of who is even operating. I used to use Charter college, but I believe thir program was disapproved by the VA.

[@10oner]

None. Dont do it. Theres no jobs out there

[@Lets-Crusade-1095]

Love that you said nonner 😂

[@SteveThaDrummer]

New subscriber and thanks for all the helpful info! My question is, what kind of a challenge or pushback - if any - did you get from the VRE counselor regarding tinnitus? Seems like they would undoubtedly make a stink of it given you need decent hearing for flying.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Noise cancelling headsets are the best thing since sliced bread.

[@Army4Runner]

Thank you for this video. Very inspiring and motivating. I currently have a private pilot certificate and have almost finished my instrument rating. All out-of-pocket via part 61 training. I’m going to inquire about Liberty University’s program as I’ve heard good things from others about it. However, a previous commenter’s problems with the VR&E counselor not wanting to authorize that training pipeline is worrisome. Have you met other aviation students using VR&E that have had difficulty in getting the green light from a counselor? I would like to reach out to you privately if possible. Oh…sub’d as well. Cool channel name.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

If you are already paying out of pocket, what do you have to lose. Apply to the school and show up to the meeting with the counselor with everything on a silver platter. It sounds like you already have all the hard work done.

[@Army4Runner]

@@BurnoutsAndRotorblades Just applied to Liberty University yesterday and submitted my VR&E application as well. Just waiting for the VA counselor to contact me. Wish me luck!

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

@@Army4Runner Good luck!

[@vegasace1767]

VR&E can be difficult. The “counselor” I dealt with said she “doesn’t feel comfortable” with me being a pilot since I have a PTSD rating even though I have a class 1 physical from an AME and fly already. The “counselor” can make a decision to deny based on their own judgment even if they have zero knowledge about aviation. Best bet is to find a part 141 school that is partnered with a university and go from there. Liberty University is a great route.

[@daviddehoog6012]

@@Army4Runnerany luck?

[@jameshaynes730]

Thanks for the info! Very much appreciated. I’m in an aviation science bachelors program right now through my GI Bill, could I utilize the vocational training program to obtain my pilots licenses simultaneously?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

It's hard to say without knowing a ton about your specific circumstances. However, there is no harm in trying.

[@theeelzzz]

Haven't seen any flying videos from you lately man! You still pursuing the dream?

[@10oner]

Cuz flight schools a scam. Theres no jobs out there

[@Sgtvalentini]

Thanks for the info, but I don't think the VA gonna let me fly a plane anytime soon lol

[@robertweekley9342]

Great video. Will VRE pay for your flight hours, fuel and rental, to help build up your flight hours?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Basically, once you get past CFI/MEII, you’re on your own. So, they will get you employable as a CFI. Then it’s on you.

[@jbw8471]

I have 13 months of benefits left but they expired last year. I regret wasting the remaining 13. I was working though🤷🏾‍♂️.

[@suppaslicck5725]

Thank you for the video! Is there any way I could email you with more in depth questions?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Of course!

[@keenen5252]

Also using VR&E for flight training. Quick question: did you get them to buy you things like the A20, ipad/foreflight, yoke mount, and ads-b (sentry/stratus), etc.? Do they pay for writtens and checkrides? I used the GI bill to get through instrument and nearly all of my commercial but was just wondering if they purchased anything for you. Also going to see if they'll reimburse me for my private - I've seen a few reddit posts about some folks having success with this so I'm gonna give it a shot.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I did get them to get me an iPd and a headset. but it had to be on a list of required items for the flight program.

[@beardedbaldasian8421]

Did you use online courses at Liberty? If so, how was the course curriculum for you? I prefer in person classes, but I'd like to know how difficult it may be online or even in general. Also I've noticed it is hard to find schools with flight training for rotary wing. Do you have any advice for that? Seems like the VA is pretty hard on Helicopter pilots, but I don't know if it may be different through the VR&E.

[@p8ntgame]

Let me save everyone time.. you have to pay out of pocket for your private, or get a loan. VR&E and G.I. bill will NOT cover it. In the meantime, if you have an sort of disability rating, prepare yourself for the FAA to come in and HAMMER you to obtain a flight medical, especially if diagnosed with ptsd. To the tune of three years and 10k. How do i know? I did it. It CAN be done, hard road. 40k out of pocket, first class medical and private, VR&E is going to cover the rest.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Congratulations on winning the hard fought battle and best of luck with the rest of your training!

[@ejcahill418]

I was just told I didn’t qualify for VR&E because I had too much work history even though I can’t carry mail anymore

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

They don't like this, but shop for a different counselor.

[@kingpalafox1045]

I’ll ask about flight programs for my vr&e.

[@10oner]

Dont do it. Theres no jobs out there

[@OctopusFan08]

This has helped so much! I was just accepted into a university’s aviation flight science program as a transfer student, but I don’t think many of my 48 credits from my CC are transferring. I’ve used one year of my Post 9/11 so from my understanding I should still have most of my VR&E eligibility left? I think I’m going to apply for VR&E and try to use that so once I run out I can use the GI Bill again to cover the rest of my training. Would this be the best way to go? I really don’t want to run out of my GI Bill before I manage to graduate/complete flight training

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I think the VR&E uses up your GI bill. but it will cover in access of your GI bill. that's why you only need 1 month of benefits left.

[@Munky332]

So I have a question since you used Liberty, Did they provide you with a degree plan that included the 2 courses that cover the PPL? I am currently still Active Duty (retiring in ~2 years). When talking with Liberty, their first 2 courses that essentially cover the PPL are for some reason *not included* in their degree plan. Now I'm not looking at VR&E at this juncture, but I was planning on using my GI Bill to at least have my PPL started to open more options prior to me retiring. However for whatever reason Liberty is saying that I wont get funding from the GI Bill for those 2 classes. I don't know if this is due to the local affiliate, or Liberty's own policy, but they are not including the first 2 flight courses in their degree plan. I'm hoping that I can use a FAFSA pell grant + potentially some Air Force Tuition Assistance benefits to cover some of the cost of the ~15k they quoted me for those 2 classes to obtain the PPL (which unlocks all sorts of options as I mentioned), however even with all that I'm probably still looking at 7-8k out of pocket, if not more. Its still cheaper than knocking it out via Part 61, as I'm @ Travis AFB and there isn't a ton of cheap places to fly here. I have ~4k hours as a Flight Engineer, and can transfer 500 hours toward the R-ATP/ATP. I was going to complete a program in NJ, however I was forced to PCS due to the KC-10 divestment. worst case if I am unable to do anything here in this god forsaken place known as California, I'll be moving back to the east coast and completing it there, but I'd like to get a little bit ahead of the curve before hitting retirement.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

The VA won't pay for private pilot as a general rule. Some folks have found courses that somehow get it done, but this is not the norm. You'll have to pay for it yourself. However, if you watch my other GI bill video, I explain how to do that with student aide. Tuition assistance will also not cover any flight courses. If there is anything I've learned on my own journey, just spend the money and start flying. Any time spent waiting on this or that is just wasted time.

[@maverickdevils9575]

@BurnoutsAndRotorblades I am a disabled combat veteran. I need help. This would be perfect for me…..

[@kylehosler8857]

Fantastic video very informative thank you! I have 1 question regarding VRE counselors. I currently only have 10% disability for tinnitus, I'm not sure how to approach the VA counselor about how this currently limits my ability to acquire employment, any suggestions?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

That would be a tough sell. Maybe be real and tell the counselor you want to switch careers and use VR&E to do it. Remember, you need to show that you can do the pilot gig by gaining training before you sit in front of the counselor.

[@p8ntgame]

Not a tough sell, whats really the ONLY career that will let you wear noise canceling headset? Being a pilot. I know, i did it.

[@joshduke134]

What if I already have a great job with excellent pay (teaching in a flight simulator, actually)? I want to go get my commercial/multi/ATP ratings and go airlines, but aren't they likely to just say "You don't have an employment handicap. You've been at the same job for __ years." Also, if I already have a bachelor's degree, do I have to get another bachelor's degree to get the flight training, since they don't do "vocational-only" flight training?

[@SteveAubrey1762]

My wife is a P&T disabled veteran of the Coast Guard and the US Army. Whould this be available to her dependents?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I hate to be vague, but it depends entirely on what she’s rated for.

[@SteveAubrey1762]

Her disability is for her back .

[@superstorch007]

Be VERY warry of the VA "Counselor" they are not there to help you. They also have a mission to keep the costs down, flight training degrees are NOT cheep.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Well said.

[@p8ntgame]

Very very correct!

[@ATBacon]

Hey Brian...are you currently in the Houston area? I have some questions I want to run past you in regard to VR&E and Anson Air.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I am closer to San Antonio. What questions do you have?

[@itsjustjohnntoday]

"...frequent paper cuts if you're a nonner" LMAO

[@troyduh]

But what are the specifics. The gi bill will pay for a degree program that contains flight training past the ppl, so whats the benefit to using vr&e over the gi bill? Do you get bah with the vr&e?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

VR&E follows a lot of the same rules as the Post 9/11. BAH is one of the perks. It doesn't have the same annual cap. SO you can take all your training straight through and not have to stop when you hit your annual cap.

[@vaughnsantiago1]

Hey I also was stationed at Hurlburt Field and worked on C130s as well as CV-22’s. How did you obtain your PPL? Did you pay out of pocket or did you work as a mechanic for a company willing to pay for it? Are you getting your commercial through a part 141, part 61, or college degree program?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I paid for my PPL out of pocket. Working for hours is a strategy you could use. At the time, I made more money per hour as a pizza delivery driver than aircraft mechanics made in the Florida panhandle.

[@chief5981]

Do you need a bachelors in aviation to get your commercial license? I’m 2 classes away from completing a bachelors in an unrelated field and not sure if I have it in me to restart. How does a program like ATP compare to what you are doing? I have about 24 months of VRE benefits left and 100% of my GI bill remaining, so I have lots of research on how each program will cover flight school. Thanks bud.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

You can usually transfer 60 credits towards a bachelor. Sometimes more. So it will be half starting over at worst. ATP is a vocational school meaning you will pay much of your flight training out of pocket and have the GI bill pickup 60% of the bill from what I understand. I'll say right now, I did not do it this way so I may not have the best information on this approach. I really only know about the processes I've been through. To answer your main wuestion, you do not need a bachelor, or any college, to fly. It is just the best use of GI bill funds to reach that goal.

[@chief5981]

@@BurnoutsAndRotorblades I appreciate all the info and have a pretty good understanding of the process now. With that said, how would you describe the workload of doing full time school with flight training? I printed off Liberty’s aviation degree program and it seems like taking four 8 week courses over a 4 month period plus flying would be challenging. I think my current bachelors will eliminate a little less than half the course work, but it still seems challenging. Thanks, and hats off to you sir.

[@ryanmorehead2409]

Great video brother, thank you. If I pay for my PPL out of pocket at a part 61 school (or a part 141 school that is not approved by the VA) to bring to the VRE counselor to help me get approved, will they reimburse that?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

They will not reimburse that.

[@jollygreen4662]

I thought u need a pilot certificate before getting gi bill to help pay the rest. I didn’t know vr&e helps u get a pilot pilot lesson

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

If you look at this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aajUlnx8gd2deposi=5WPe3zzJz0odCmV3 I explain how I used loans for my PPL. Since I was in a college degree program, I qualified for Federally subsidized student loans. Since I didn't need to pay them off until after graduation, I just sent every subsequent Pell Grant and BAH Payment to pay off the student loans to avoid paying a penny in interest. I borrowed Uncle Sam's money and then paid Uncle Sam back with Uncle Sam's money.

[@josephburton92]

Man I don’t have my license. But I got all of my training done. Solos and all. I fell on hard times when it came to paying for the check ride. Would you suggest waiting until I get the PPL or just give it a shot?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

It will make things easier in my opinion. However, you might have a case to make that the funding is the only thing holding you back and can prove it with this story and your log book.

[@mclovin7505]

I’m a little confused. You needed a COMMERCIAL license for this job? Doesn’t that take years like being an airline pilot? I’m looking for a way to the private license portion paid for. Because I thought they paid for everything after that with the GI bill?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

A commercial license can be done in a year. It's 250 hours. Being an airline pilot takes 1500 hours and a ton of other requirements within those hours. That certification is called an ATP. There are some VA approved programs out there that will take you from private pilot all the way through CFII. In the majority of cases, you will have to move to where they are and take classes in residence. It's easier to just pay for the PPL with a loan, and then pay the loan back with Pell grant or GI Bill BAH payments.

[@xxendl3ssxx984]

I'm a former Paratrooper with an 80% rating looking into the VR&E to pursue my bachelors in Aviation Flight and I live in CA and its proving difficult to find a VA approved school that holds such degree program thats not private or will VR&E be more lenient on schools? Already scheduling my AME for Class 1. What else should I already have when I speak to the counselor to help fufill the request?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I'm a little confused by your question. VR&E follows almost the exact same guidelines as GI Bill as far as I know. So, you'll need to find a VA approved degree program that has a flight school program. Liberty university has the Flight affiliate program. If they have a flight affiliate in your area it might be a best bet. Other than that, you'll need to move. The GI Bill and VR&E give the BAH while in flight training if that helps. This has been my biggest obstacle. I can't move and I can't survive on just disability and BAH.

[@aaronpage2781]

good video. Im in Iowa and Im looking at Liberty as well but they do not have a Flight Affiliate anywhere near me. So Im also looking for schools that I can accelerate through faster since I will have to travel/move temporarily. ATP is one school but its not a bachelors program. As far as I know the VRE program requires a bachelors with the flight training. Do you know of any others?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Check out my other video on GI bill and free flight training. I explain how to use the WEAMS tool to search for schools. It's a really good place to start.

[@aaronpage2781]

@@BurnoutsAndRotorblades I did look at the Weams site. I think I’m just going to have to start calling the schools to see what they allow. I was already looking at Liberty’s program before seeing your videos. But I’m wondering if I can find a more flexible program. VRE requires a bachelors. I’m falling under the VRE program. My GI Bill is expired.

[@p8ntgame]

With a ptsd rating, nobody is willing touch the vet because of liability, thus the huge medical bill to be cleared by FAA certified psychologist and psychiatrists. Best advice, if the vet plans on flying, do NOT take any medication, prescribed or not. It's unfortunately all up to the veteran to navigate getting the PPL on their own, it can however be done! Verterans, see 14 CFR § 67.107.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Comments like this and videos like this are meant to help Vets have some direction. So, thank you for posting. Medications are not something the FAA messes with. There is a medication list and before you accept a prescription for any medication make sure it will not interfere with your fitness to fly.

[@nadaveshel3095]

I'm a disabled veteran. I've been thinking about either using Vr&e for college or taking out a loan for flight school. Are you saying that if I convinced the Va to pay for me go to liberty university, that I could simultaneously have them pay for college, flight school, and also receive Bah? Or are they just going to pay for the college itself?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

All three sir!

[@p8ntgame]

They will in NO WAY cover ANY flight classes, hours etc even in a degree program until you have you private. I just did it.

[@Ciaran-hj9zp]

Any flight programs in Alaska that you can use VocRehab for?

[@josephburton92]

Nonner lol I love it

[@v8marvin8v]

I am a 100% disabled vet. I have my private w/instrument rating and applied for VR&E had my interview and they denied me any advice

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I guess it has more to do with what you intend to do with it and with how much certainty you can show them you'll get a job after.

[@bryanlaplante8904]

Hey man, private pilot with a second class medical. I’m currently approved for VRE and was weighing out the online Liberty University vs GI bill/self pay at a part 61. Is the flight training self paced at a partner/affiliate school or set hours of flight time per semester? Would rather pay and get all my ratings in a year vs dragging it out for 2 years. Any help/insight is appreciated. Great videos btw keep killin it!

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

You have however long the term is to knock out the hours. If it's a 16 week term, that how long you have. Liberty offers 4 terms within a term. 1) the whole 16 weeks, 2) the first 8 weeks, 3) the last 8 weeks, 4) some weird section of 8 weeks in the middle. the point is, there are options and if you're dedicated enough it can go by pretty fast.

[@p8ntgame]

Did the flight affiliate with liberty. The g.i. bill will NOT cover any private pilot classes/hours.

[@TristinOByrne]

Any recommendations for a VSO?

[@bencameron4153]

Hey brother. Assuming you are from SA, is there a way we could link up and you could help me through the process? I’m in Cibolo.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Sure. I just got back in to town.

[@Justin-ny8df]

Waiting for my VA decision, I'm already in a 141 University for my degree in Aviation Science and Management (flight plans included) and pursuing my PPL in a 61 school. Really hoping they decide to give me a rating (a few static line jumps were not kind to me) so I can get some extra help because not having 100% Post 9/11 is getting pricey! Hopefully, if all that works out I feel confident after watching your video as you have provided me with my battle plans going in! I will have already obtained my PPL, 1st-Class Medical, shortage of pilots, and showing my GPA (3.0+) at this university as evidence that "your investment will be well worth the time!"

[@marceliusmorgan4853]

Do you need your private pilot license first the get approved for a Commercial Pilot degree program?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

No, but with very few exceptions, the government won’t pay for the PPL.

[@WoahKota]

I’m a disabled veteran.I have ptsd migraines and mild sleep apnea I’m enroll in a flight school out of my own pocket. Is it a waste? Will I even pass my FAA?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

PTSD is a pretty huge red flag for the FAA. I'd try to get you pilot medical first. There is a guy on here who did it after a battle that lasted years.

[@ryanosborne4788]

Is it true that I would be entitled to full BAH (E5 with dependents) if I do liberty online but am going to the flight school during the week with full credit semesters?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

yes, The flight school class is what gets you the residence rate BAH.

[@TevinAlves]

What? Liberty told me no. They said since the school is online it’s not full bah. I am considering applying to them. Who do I talk to at the school to get this accurate info.

[@realblackbetty2204]

I used up my gi bill for my bachelors. Can I still get this? Thanks

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

you only need 1 month of benefits left.

[@tywheeler7131]

I wish they would just approve part 61 programs so we can get the training done quickly and locally instead of at the higher flight schools that exploit folks.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

They do but not for VR&E. regular GI bill will cover 60% of part 61 training. I think its a bigger issue that these programs don't value technical schools and vocational training at all. It would be nice if they understood that not every career needs a college degree.

[@justech]

Can you still qualify for VR&E assistance if you've been out of the military for more than 20 years and your GI Bill has expired?

[@justech]

I think I found the answer to my own question on the VA website: If you were discharged from active duty before January 1, 2013, your basic period of eligibility ends 12 years from one of these dates, whichever comes later: The date you received notice of your date of separation from active duty, or The date you received your first VA service-connected disability rating Since I haven't applied for disability yet, but I'm sure my tinnitus and jaw pain started when I was a KC-135 boom operator while in the Air Force, I'm hopeful that I'd still qualify.

[@michaelw2108]

Can you apply after you get a private license I working on my private checkride

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

It's better if you do.

[@TheMichaeljwelker]

Your slide said that you have to already have a private pilot's license to be eligible for training benefits. WTH, kinda defeats the purpose doesn't it?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

The VA considers the private a hobby. Basically because a ton of other people before you and I screwed it up by quitting after the private. That said, you can use the pell grant and BAH money to pay for the private while taking the boring non-flight classes. Or get a loan.

[@donrainesoh]

Would love to do this, but I have ptsd so from what I understand I could only do light sport pilot.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

That is not true. It depends on medication and the way it effects you. There are airline pilots out there with PTSD.

[@p8ntgame]

I just did it. The FAA will make you take about 10k in testing to obtain your medical clearance to fly. Took me 40k and three years to obtain a private and navigate the FAA.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

@@p8ntgame That is good information. There are some private services that help vets do this. I don't know of, or endorse any. However, they do exist and are used by the airline industry pilots regularly.

[@p8ntgame]

@@BurnoutsAndRotorblades i searched coast to coast. Only thing i found was a few private scholarships one could possibly apply for. However with a ptsd rating, nobody is willing touch the vet because of liability, thus the huge medical bill to be cleared by FAA certified psychologist and psychiatrists. Best advice, if the vet plans on flying, do NOT take any medication, prescribed or not. It's unfortunately all up to the veteran to navigate getting the PPL on their own, it can however be done! Verterans, see 14 CFR § 67.107.

[@HotRodMichelle]

I’m a vet with 10% disability rating and already have a fixed wing certificate. Is there anything for me to add my rotor rating certificate?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I don't quite understand the question.

[@ryanosborne4788]

Just had my meeting with VR&E counselor. They said that because I earned a degree while I was in the military, that I don't qualify for VR&E. What should I do?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Are you switching career fields?

[@ryanosborne4788]

@@BurnoutsAndRotorblades I’m applying again for VR&E. I have a degree in political science so they were trying to say I have overcome my employment handicap bc I have a degree. If I’m able to over turn that, I wanted to also know if they paid you texas BAH while you did Liberty online or if they paid you Virginia BAH

[@gunlover94]

If I already have a degree and a goodish job, but want to transition into aviation, will that be ok?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

yes, it's all about how you pitch it. VR&E is about work that doesn't upset your disabilities.

[@Javyy89]

Does this work for the private pilot license or only after the private pilot?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Only after private pilot license. However, I have another video on the channel that breaks down how to use the FAFSA pell grant and BAH money from the Post 911 to pay for the PPL while taking classes online.

[@shaeimwalle92]

@@BurnoutsAndRotorblades I need to check this video out. I'm setup to us post 9/11 at Liberty however I would have to pay for the PPL out of pocket with a loan. That would be great to use a grant

[@Divinitus9]

From my understanding, if the private pilot license is built into the degree program there shouldn't be any issues with acceptance. I know the requirements to obtain any pilot licensing using the post 911 gi bill, it has to be obtained in a degree format so I would assume the same for VR&E? I have my first scheduled appointment with my counselor in 10 days and I'm hoping to build a good case..

[@ascendingphoenix14]

Does this still work if you Have a high VA rating but don't have the GI bill due to General Discharge?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

I believe you need an honorable. Challenge the general through the VA.

[@Stay_Loose407]

Do you think 50% PTSD is a deal breaker?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

It depends on the symptoms and the treatment.

[@infotechsailor]

I never went and got my service connected disabilities been out for years not sure how I can go back and get my rating

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

The process is basically the same. The big difference is that the process is more streamlined for those who are getting out. Don't be discouraged though, tons of people are getting their claims in just like you every day. Get ahold of a VSO, Veteran service organization like the VFW near you with this link, www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits/vso-search . They will help you go through your medical record and file a claim. On that note, If you haven't already gotten your medical records you will need to. Best to get both paper and digital copies from the records department of your closest military hospital. A VSO should be able to help you out with better details. Put together your claim, file. . . . .wait. . . . . do your compensation and pension exams . . . . .wait. . . .receive decision and potentially get paid for your disabilities. If you are denied anything you feel you deserve, you can appeal.

[@justcause7521]

Go to Disabled American veterans DAV, thell hook you up.

[@privatewealthmanagement1044]

Hey man 70% permanent disability, don't have my private license yet, though started... can i get accepted while still doing my private rating?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Unfortunately, there is no clear answer when it comes to the VA. Different counselors view and apply the rules differently. Optimistically, I’d say that there is no reason for them to say no. Realistically, having the certificate is a lot stronger way to show you can be a pilot.

[@privatewealthmanagement1044]

@@BurnoutsAndRotorblades thanks man. Appointment tomorrow, if they deny ill get my private and resubmit

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

Good luck! I hope it goes well for you.

[@kejdjdjjxkdjdjdj917]

How much do I have to pay for the ppl?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

That's a big question with a lot of variation in the answer. It depends on how much flight schools in your area charge. I'd suggest calling the local flight schools and asking if they offer package deals at a reduced cost or block time, as it's commonly referred to.

[@davidmartin2701]

Have my PPL. 10% disabled and didn’t know about this program. I used all but 6 months of my Post 9/11 for undergrad. Any idea if that will create an issue?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

you only need 1 month of benefits left.

[@edsmoky454]

@@BurnoutsAndRotorblades Only one month of remaining post 9/11 benefits? I don't understand ... can you explain?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

@@edsmoky454 I don' t know what part is the disconnect so I'll try to cover a few possibilities. The Post 9/11 GI Bill calculates how much benefit you have in months as opposed to dollars. Though the two are linked. You can have as little as one month of VA benefits left and still be eligible. One month is the minimum requirement but you can have more. I do not know if there is a process to waive that requirement if you have less than one month of GI Bill benefits left.

[@edsmoky454]

@@BurnoutsAndRotorblades Misinterpreted ‘one month’ and assumed you were inferring there was a way of expanding P 9/11 to cover all of the training, if you had at least one month remaining.

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

@@edsmoky454 You basically can through VR&E. If you have one month of GI Bill left VR&E will pay for an entire other training.

[@anthonywindfield8439]

I wish it was some free training for hard working people who were put in a bad situation thru marriage

[@TheLazyLifterr]

Which things can we claim on VA disability as we’re getting out of the service, that won’t affect our flying ability in like Major Airlines?

[@BurnoutsAndRotorblades]

There is a list of disqualifying illnesses on the FAA website. I would also look around on some forums. I know PTSD and anything requiring medication are basically disqualifying.

[@10oner]

Stop faking injuries. Stolen valor. U should be ashamed

[@LuisRodriguez-vk2ym]

yeah good luck trying to convince that VR&E guy you want flight training with that PTSD rating

[@RyanB.222]

I am a disabled veteran and want to go this route to become a pilot.

[@dummer82]

How is your route coming along?