Aircraft Dispatcher Training (Diploma)
Make your aviation career ready for take-off
Find your future at Academy College
Aircraft dispatcher training makes you the co-pilot on the ground. You’ll craft flight plans, monitor weather conditions, and make critical go/no-go decisions to keep passengers safe.
Academy College’s FAA-approved aircraft dispatcher program is Minnesota’s longest-established dispatch training. Evening classes and accelerated formats let you earn your aircraft dispatcher certificate without interrupting your current employment.
Why choose Academy College?
- FAA Part 65-approved program
- 11-week program
- Campus-wide support
- Flexible evening schedules
- Prepare for the FAA aircraft dispatch certificate exam
- Experienced instructors
- Hands-on skill building
- Small classes
Interested in learning more?
Aircraft dispatcher career outlook
*Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
median salary for project management specialists*
projected employment growth in air transportation occupations*
essential operations role with excellent job security
aircraft dispatchers employed by U.S. airlines and cargo carriers*
The Aircraft dispatcher training program
Program Tracks
Academy College offers two aircraft dispatcher training tracks. Both meet FAA Part 65 requirements and prepare you for certification.
Resident Course (11 weeks):
- 200 hours of comprehensive training for students new to aviation dispatch
- Foundation-to-advanced curriculum covering all FAA requirements
- Ideal for career changers and professionals new to aviation
Credit for Previous Experience (5 weeks):
- 75 hours classroom instruction plus 125 hours experience credit
- Accelerated track for aviation professionals
- Requires 2+ years of aviation experience or a private pilot certificate
Program Requirements
You’ll complete FAA-mandated training covering all aspects of flight operations. Our program meets the 200-hour minimum for FAA Part 65 certification.
- 200 hours of comprehensive dispatcher training
- Minimum age is 21 (can work as an assistant dispatcher until age 23)
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Pass the FAA written and practical examinations
Curriculum Overview
Theoretical knowledge with practical application, covering every aspect of aircraft dispatch operations from basic regulations to advanced emergency procedures.
Sample courses:
- Advanced Practical Dispatching
- Aircraft Systems and Performance
- Federal Aviation Regulations
- Flight Planning and Communications
- Meteorology and Weather Analysis
- Navigation and Air Traffic Control
- Emergency and Abnormal Procedures
Core Competencies
Develop the comprehensive skill set needed for modern aircraft dispatch operations, combining technical expertise with critical thinking abilities essential for aviation safety.
Core competencies include:
- Analyzing weather data and making go/no-go flight decisions
- Applying federal aviation regulations to daily operations
- Coordinating with pilots, air traffic control, and ground operations
- Creating detailed flight plans considering fuel, weight, and performance
- Managing emergency situations and abnormal procedures
- Using industry-standard dispatch software and communication systems
Program Experience
Academy College evening classes allow you to maintain current employment while preparing for your aviation career.
- Evening classes Monday-Friday, 5:00–10:00 PM
- Comprehensive career services support and industry connections
- Hands-on training
- Personalized attention
- Preparation for both FAA written and practical examinations
- Small class sizes
Licensing
Graduates are eligible for the FAA examinations required for an aircraft dispatcher certificate.
FAA Part 65 requirements:
- Academy College graduates receive a waiver of the typical 2-year experience requirement
- Complete 200-hour FAA-approved training course
- Pass the FAA written knowledge exam (ADX exam)
- Pass the FAA practical examination
Get our curriculum, outcomes, and faculty in one place
Download the Catalog
Meet the aircraft dispatch program coordinator
Elias "Double-A" Andrews
Aircraft Dispatch Chief Instructor
I’ve spent my career in international and domestic aircraft dispatch operations, and I believe flight dispatchers are aviation’s unsung heroes. With eyes fixed on the skies, we navigate the currents of safety to support every pilot in command—and I’m passionate about training the next generation to excel in this critical role.
Our aircraft dispatcher students speak up
Accredited and respected programs
Academy College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). They are a private, nonprofit organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an institutional accrediting agency for post-secondary career schools and colleges.
FAQs
Good questions
What does an aircraft dispatcher actually do?
Aircraft dispatchers are responsible for flight planning, weather analysis, monitoring flight progress, and making critical safety decisions. You’ll work directly with pilots to ensure every flight operates safely and efficiently.
Do I need aviation experience to start the program?
No prior aviation experience is required for our Resident Course. However, Academy College offers an accelerated Credit for Previous Experience track for those with qualifying aviation backgrounds.
What's the class schedule like?
Classes meet Monday through Friday from 5:00 to 10:00 PM.
How long does the program take?
The Resident Course takes 11 weeks. The Credit for Previous Experience track takes 5 weeks. Both meet the FAA’s 200-hour training requirement.
Will I be ready for the FAA exams?
Our FAA-approved curriculum fully prepares students for the written and practical FAA dispatcher exams.
What kind of jobs can I get after graduation?
Graduates find employment with major airlines, cargo carriers, charter companies, and corporate aviation departments. Starting positions include assistant dispatcher roles, with advancement to senior dispatcher and supervisory positions.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, we offer various financial aid options for qualified students. Contact our financial aid office to discuss your specific situation and available programs.
What happens if I don't pass the FAA exam?
Academy College provides additional support and retesting opportunities. Our experienced instructors work with students who need extra preparation to ensure they’re ready for certification.
Conduct your aircraft dispatcher training at Academy College