RICHMOND, Ky. (July 14, 2026) — Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) School of Aviation continues to grow as one of the university’s most in-demand programs. A new state investment designates EKU to lead an Air Traffic Management program with $5 million in startup funding and $1.5 million in annual operational support.
“The EKU School of Aviation is nationally recognized as one of the fastest-growing aviation programs in the country,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “This investment from the General Assembly reinforces our role as the flagship aviation program of the Commonwealth and allows us to expand opportunities for students in one of the most dynamic and high-demand fields in the country.”
Dr. Tim Holt, chair of the School of Aviation at EKU, said the program currently serves more than 500 students. Enrollment continues to reflect strong interest in the program, with a 140% increase over the past few years.
The aviation program is an FAA part 141 program, a designation that places EKU among the top collegiate aviation programs in the country and allows graduates to qualify for airline careers with reduced flight hour requirements.
EKU’s School of Aviation operates with a strong hands-on training approach, supported by its partnership with Central Kentucky Regional Airport, the second busiest general aviation facility in Kentucky. The airport sees roughly 80,000 to 90,000 annual operations, with EKU accounting for the majority of activity, providing students with an opportunity that many other aviation programs don’t offer.
“We work for the students,” said Holt. “We guide the students on their path, while serving the industry. Our goal is to supply the industry with the top-tier professionals they’re looking for.”
The program is described as a close-knit, family-like environment, and Holt believes it stands out nationally not only because of its experienced faculty and staff, but also because of the drive and motivation of its students. That combination is reflected in strong post-graduation outcomes, with job placement rates consistently ranging between 98% and 100%. Holt says employers recognize the quality and preparedness of EKU graduates, noting that they are confident to enter the workforce.
EKU is also advancing its Aerospace Education Complex at the airport, which broke ground in November 2024 and is now moving toward the bidding phase. Construction is expected to follow contractor selection, with completion projected for 2027.
The Aerospace Education Complex will be a two-story facility, including briefing rooms, office space and expanded simulation technology to support hands-on learning.
“I believe it elevates and exemplifies the level of this program, having our own ramp and hangar space, coupled with advanced simulation space, shows why we’re the flagship,” said Holt.
Beginning in Spring 2027, EKU will offer an associate degree in Air Traffic Management and a bachelor’s concentration in Air Traffic Management, expanding opportunities for students interested in aviation careers. It will be supported by FAA-certified systems, including tower, radar and advanced flight simulation technology. EKU plans to pursue designation as an enhanced Air Traffic Management training program as it continues to develop.
“As an EKU alumnus, I’m proud to see Eastern Kentucky University stepping up to help prepare the next generation of aviation and air traffic control professionals,” said Don Bornhorst, former FAA Chief Administrative Officer and EKU Alumnus. “The Commonwealth of Kentucky’s investment in creating an air traffic management program strengthens both Kentucky’s and the nation’s critical aviation workforce pipeline and positions EKU to make a lasting impact on the future of our industry.”
As the aviation program continues to grow, plans also include upgrading the fleet of aircraft and exploring the addition of a graduate-level aviation degree.
“It’s a great time to be in aviation, and I think it’s even a better time to be an EKU Colonel in aviation because the future is very bright,” said Holt.
EKU’s Bachelor of Science in Aviation offers concentrations in aerospace management, professional aeronautics, professional flight, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and, beginning in 2027, air traffic management, giving students multiple pathways into the aviation industry. The Associate in Air Traffic Management has been approved, while the Bachelor of Science in Aviation with a concentration in Air Traffic Management is pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
