Programs

In-person ground school for an hour isIn-Person Ground School is a focused, instructor-led session where students build the knowledge every pilot needs before taking the controls. Participants learn core aviation topics—regulations, navigation, weather, aerodynamics, and safety—through interactive lessons, discussion, and real-time Q&A. It’s designed to strengthen flight training and help students feel confident, prepared, and test-ready.

Online Ground School delivers the same essential aviation education in a flexible virtual format. Students learn regulations, navigation, weather, aerodynamics, and safety through digital lessons and interactive tools like videos, quizzes, and guided activities. It’s ideal for busy schedules, remote learners, and anyone who wants to review material at their own pace.

Flight Training is a structured, supervised program that introduces young aviators (ages 8–18) to real-world flying in a safe, age-appropriate way. Students combine ground instruction with hands-on flight experiences alongside certified flight instructors, learning basic maneuvers, cockpit procedures, and aviation decision-making. The goal is to build skill, confidence, and a strong foundation for long-term success in aviation.

Torqued Up is Fly Compton Foundation’s hands-on aviation mechanics workshop that teaches students what’s happening under the cowling—so they don’t just fly, they understand how aircraft work. Through a five-station experience, participants learn safety and PPE basics, identify and use common aviation tools, explore how key flight instruments function, build and break down aircraft models, and complete a guided scavenger hunt on a real training aircraft to find major engine components. The program builds technical confidence, sharpens problem-solving skills, and introduces youth to aviation maintenance and STEM career pathways.

Fly High SKYLAB is a new hands-on learning experience launching in 2026 where young pilots, engineers, and innovators build, code, and explore aviation technology. Designed for students enrolled in Fly Compton’s aviation program, SKYLAB supplements the curriculum by reinforcing what students learn in the classroom through interactive projects and guided instruction. Sessions run every third Saturday from 10:00–11:00 AM, powered by our partnership with the CSUDH Physics Department and Dr. Horace Crogman.

Fly Compton Couture is a 5-day S.T.E.A.M. summer experience where students explore the intersection of fashion design, aerospace, and engineering. In a small cohort of 10, participants sketch, prototype, and build high-fashion flightwear inspired by aviator suits and spacesuits—enhanced with wearable technology like sensors, LED lights, and microcontrollers. Guided by mentors, students apply “fit, form, and function” while using tools like sewing machines, high-performance fabrics, and 3D printing. The camp culminates in a runway-style showcase where students debut their creations for family, friends, and community partners—because at Fly Compton, the sky isn’t the limit…it’s the runway.

Private Pilot Summer Camp is an immersive program designed to help aspiring aviators make real progress toward earning their Private Pilot License. Students participate in intensive ground school, flight planning, and hands-on flight training with experienced instructors—plus simulations and aviation activities that reinforce learning. It’s a summer experience built for serious growth, confidence, and momentum in the cockpit.

The Aviation Maintenance Program introduces youth (ages 8–18) to the systems that keep aircraft safe and airworthy. Through hands-on instruction, students learn the basics of inspections, tools, troubleshooting, and key aircraft components, from engines to electronics. It’s a practical pathway into STEM and aviation technician careers, built to develop skill, curiosity, and confidence.

The Drone Program introduces students (ages 8–18) to unmanned aviation through hands-on flight, safety training, and real-world problem solving. Participants learn drone fundamentals, flight principles, navigation, and responsible operations—then apply those skills through guided challenges and flight activities. It’s an engaging pathway into aviation, technology, and aerial innovation.

The Engineering Program is a hands-on learning experience where students (ages 8–18) explore design, innovation, and problem-solving through real projects. Guided by mentors, participants build, test, and refine solutions while learning fundamentals across multiple engineering disciplines—from structures to circuits. The program strengthens critical thinking, creativity, and STEM confidence.