How It Works

Overview

Disciples Worldwide Aviation exists to equip the next generation of missionary pilot mechanics—individuals who are not only trained aviation professionals but also committed missionaries. Our vision is to reach remote and unreached people groups with the Gospel by using aviation as a powerful tool for access and ministry.

We offer a fully-funded, comprehensive three-year training program that prepares students both spiritually and professionally. The program includes:

• All required flight certifications and experience
• Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification
• Theological education
• Intentional discipleship training

All of this is offered tuition-free, enabling students to graduate debt-free and fully equipped for the mission field.

Flight Training

Our certified instructors guide students through the following ratings:

• Private Pilot
• Instrument Rating
• Commercial Pilot
• CFI (Certified Flight Instructor)
• CFII (Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument)

Students also build a minimum of 500 flight hours, the typical threshold required by most mission aviation organizations. Training is conducted using a variety of aircraft and includes operations at gravel strips and high-altitude mountain runways. Advanced students are trained in tailwheel aircraft and single-engine turboprops, and learn to navigate mountain wind currents and challenging terrain.

Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Training

With a 4-to-1 student-to-instructor ratio, our A&P training ensures ample one-on-one instruction. Students gain valuable hands-on experience by restoring Cessna high-wing aircraft—models commonly used in mission work—including the 206, 185, 182, 172, 150, and 152. These restored aircraft are then sold, and the proceeds help fund our students’ flight training.

Bible and Discipleship Training

We believe that missionary pilots must first be rooted disciples of Jesus. As Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:19–20, our mission is to “make disciples of all nations.” Pilots must be well-grounded in Scripture, able to articulate the Gospel clearly, and committed to a life of righteousness and service.

Our discipleship program is designed to instill a solid theological foundation, ensuring students are spiritually prepared to minister wherever they are sent. As Paul instructed in 2 Timothy 2:2, we aim to entrust the truths of Scripture to faithful individuals who will, in turn, teach others.

Program Costs

Thanks to a unique funding model and generous donor support, students are not required to make any upfront payments and can complete the program without incurring debt.

Our A&P training not only equips students but also serves the dual purpose of restoring aircraft for resale to support program costs. In addition, students begin building their own support networks (both financial and prayer-based) during the program. By the time they graduate, many students are fully supported and ready to deploy to the field—often much faster than other traditional mission aviation programs allow.

Program Includes:

• Certified flight instruction
• All required flight hours
• 30 months of hands-on A&P training
• On-site housing

Program Length

For students with no prior aviation or mechanical experience, the full program can be completed in three years. This includes:

• All flight certifications
• 500 flight hours
• A&P certification
• Bible and discipleship training
• Established support base

Students with previous aviation experience may complete the program in a shorter time, depending on their background.

Airplanes & Facilities

Training Aircraft:

• 1976 Cessna 172M (Primary Trainer)
• 1981 Cessna 182R (STOL, IO-550, 300+ HP, WingX, bush tires)
• 2020 Just SuperSTOL XL (Titan 340, 31” bush tires)
• 2014 TBM 900 (Turboprop)

Housing:

• 5 newly built one- and two-bedroom cabins (shared for singles, private for married students)
• 3 RV pads with full hookups (for guests and overflow housing)

Hangars:

• Main Training Hangar: 60′ x 104′ (on-site)
• Base Hangar 2: 42′ x 36′
• Mountain Hangar: 44′ x 64′
• Airport Hangars: KGEY (40′ x 40′), KCOD (60′ x 60′)