About Us

our mission Statement

who we are

Providing practical, relevant aeronautics classes to motivate, inspire and develop the aviation workforce of today and tomorrow.

Started and owned by USAF veterans, PAI provides unrivaled big picture, systems-level workforce development/continuing education short courses in aeronautics, jet engines, and aircraft systems/operations to increase confidence, boost motivation, and improve communication.

We are a team of dynamic, engaging instructors with professionally recognized expertise as pilots, test pilots, test navigators/combat systems operators and engineers, highly experienced with military and civilian aircraft/engines! Courses are team-taught by award winning educators, typically an aviator and PhD engineer. We are experts in all major disciplines, including:

  • Aerodynamics
  • Propulsion
  • Flight Mechanics
  • Structures & Materials
  • Airframe & Engine Design

In addition, Practical Aeronautics has years of experience in:

  • Ground & Flight Testing
  • Accident Reconstruction
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Flying & Air Operations
  • Logistics & Supply Chain Management
  • Maintenance & Sustainment
  • Structural Repair

What We Do

We teach professional workforce development short courses by presenting the fundamental laws and basic principles that govern atmospheric flight, aircraft systems, and jet propulsion in practical, interesting, exciting, and fun ways! We do that through our unique content design, focus, approach, and selection of instructors.

John Norton - Freedom Award nominee 2019

2019 Freedom Award Nominee

Practical Aeronautics was recognized as a 2019 Freedom Award nominee! The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award is the highest recognition given by the U.S. Government to employers for their outstanding support of employees serving in the Guard and Reserve. We are incredibly humbled by the recognition and are honored to continue our support of the United States Military. John Norton, our VP of Aeronautics, attended the Colorado ESGR Awards Banquet, in Colorado Springs, on June 1st.

What’s Special about PAI Courses?

Unique Content Design, Systems Focus,
Unique Teaching Style, Building Block Approach

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