Quality Score
Good
Base (15) + components above = 70
About
The School of Missionary Aviation Technology (SMAT) is a Christ-centered, FAA-certified aviation training school located at the Ionia County Airport in Ionia, Michigan. SMAT offers a one-year flight training program (Part 61/141) covering private, instrument, and commercial pilot certificates, as well as a one-year FAA Part 147 Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) maintenance program. The school specializes in preparing students for careers in missionary aviation, with a low instructor-to-student ratio, hands-on training, and strong ties to mission organizations worldwide.
Estimated PPL Training Cost
| Line item | Hours | Rate (range) | Subtotal (range) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Champion Citabria (cheapest in fleet) | 70h | $55 – $215/hr | $3,700 – $15,000 |
| Flight instruction (dual) | 42h | $25 – $100/hr | $1,050 – $4,200 |
| Ground instruction | 20h | $25 – $100/hr | $500 – $2,000 |
| Estimated Total Range | $5,300 – $21,200 | ||
Instruction Rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Training for a Private Pilot Certificate at School of Missionary Aviation Technology is estimated to cost $5,300 – $21,200. to see the full breakdown with exact aircraft rental and instructor rates.
Yes, School of Missionary Aviation Technology is approved for both Part 61 and Part 141 training. Part 141 uses a structured, FAA-approved curriculum with stage checks and lowers the minimum hours for a Private Pilot Certificate from 40 to 35. Part 61 is self-paced with no required syllabus. Ask the school which path fits your schedule.
No, School of Missionary Aviation Technology does not have a Designated Pilot Examiner on staff. When you're ready for your checkride, you'll need to book with an independent DPE. Ask the school if they can point you to one nearby.
School of Missionary Aviation Technology's training fleet includes the Cessna 172 (Skyhawk), Cessna 206 (Stationair), Piper PA-28R (Arrow), and Champion Citabria. Having multiple types in the fleet keeps your training on track if one plane is down for maintenance. Ask the school about current availability and any additional charges per aircraft.
Yes, School of Missionary Aviation Technology has the following flight training device: Unknown Simulator. Ask the school which ratings the device count toward and how many hours you can log.
No, School of Missionary Aviation Technology does not charge a fuel surcharge. The published rental rates are your actual hourly cost.