Scholarship FAQ

Have questions about Aero Club of Buffalo scholarships? See below for the answers to some of our most asked questions.

Scholarship information to Aero Club members 2025 click here to download.

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What Scholarships does the Aero Club of Buffalo (ACOB) offer?

The Fran Bainbridge Flight Training Scholarship – $2500

Funds Generously donated by the Aero Club of Buffalo Members

Fran Bainbridge was the “heart and soul” of the Aero Club of Buffalo.  Fran joined the ACOB in 2003 and from then until 2017 served in various capacities with the club, during which she served as Vice President, President, Chairperson of the Scholarship Committee and Executive Secretary.  An avid flyer, Fran flew a Bellanca Champion 7AC, a Searay Amphibian and a gyrocopter.  Fran, without question kept the ACOB not only running but viable.  The ACOB will always be grateful for her efforts.

This scholarship will be awarded to a flight student pursuing a pilot license or higher certificate:

For PRIMARY FLIGHT TRAINING each applicant must have proof of 15 hours of flight instruction logged, by providing a copy of the last 2 pages of the log book (to include the endorsement of solo flight if completed), a Medical Certificate and a FAA Student pilot certificate. (It is not necessary to have completed solo flight for this scholarship application).

For ADVANCED FLIGHT TRAINING the applicant requires a copy of the FAA pilot certificate, a current medical certificate and a copy of the last 2 pages of the log book. Please Indicate the rating for which you are seeking funds i.e. Instrument, Multi engine, Commercial etc.

All flight lessons must be taken within one of the WNY counties listed below*.  The award will be paid directly to the candidate’s choice of flight school or instructor. Candidates for this scholarship must be between the ages of 17-25 and be a permanent resident or student within the WNY region as defined below*.

 

The Aero Club of Buffalo Aeronautical/Aviation Educational Scholarship – $2500

Funds Generously donated by the Aero Club of Buffalo Members

This scholarship is designed for candidates planning a career in the field of aviation, to include, but not limited to: A & P mechanic, aerospace engineer, airport manager, aviation educator, air traffic controller, commercial or airline pilot. This scholarship is offered to endorse and assist the candidate’s efforts in pursuing their education/career in aviation.  Funds awarded may be used for the purpose of related books, materials, aircraft rent and instructor time or tuition expenses. * Candidates for this scholarship must be between the ages of 17-25 and be a permanent resident or student living within the WNY region as defined below.

How much funding does each scholarship provide?

Funding is determined yearly. Funding has ranged from $1500 to $3000 per scholarship.

What county should I reside in to be considered for a scholarship?

To be eligible for consideration, candidates must reside in or be a student in one of the following counties: Niagara, Erie, Genesee, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Monroe, Livingston, Allegany, Wayne, Ontario, Yates, Seneca, and Schuyler.

Who funds these scholarships?

Funds Generously donated by the Aero Club of Buffalo Members.

What forms do I need to fill out?

Applicants will need to read through the Scholarship Criteria and fill out the two-page application and comply with all requested information asked of the applicant.

Application Form

Scholarship Criteria

When will the scholarships be awarded?

Both scholarships will be awarded at the Niagara Aerospace Museum’s Hall of Fame Dinner to be held May 9, 2025 at Banchetti’s Restaurant in Amherst, NY.

Who should I contact if I have a question?

Please contact Scholarship Chair Pamela Crassidis at pcrassidis@gmail.com.