A career in aviation management goes beyond flying planes — it includes managing airports,
Airlines, logistics, safety regulations, and aviation business operations. If you’re aiming to join the dynamic aviation industry in a leadership role, pursuing a degree from one of the best aviation management colleges in the USA can give you a solid head start.
What is Aviation Management?
Aviation Management involves the planning, operation, and supervision of various aspects of the aviation industry. Key roles include:
- Airport Manager
- Airline Operations Manager
- Aviation Safety Officer
- Logistics & Cargo Manager
- Air Traffic Control Planner
Why Study Aviation Management in the USA?
The USA has some of the world’s busiest airports and largest airline companies. Studying aviation management here offers:
- Hands-on training with real-world aviation systems
- Access to internships at major airports and airlines
- Advanced simulators and aviation labs
- High demand for graduates in both public and private sectors
Best Aviation Management Colleges in the USA (2025)
Here’s a list of top-rated colleges offering strong aviation management programs:
1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
- Campuses: Daytona Beach, FL and Prescott, AZ
- Program: B.S. and M.S. in Aviation Business Administration
- Industry-leading curriculum focused on operations, finance, and safety
- Strong airline partnerships and high job placement rate
2. Purdue University – School of Aviation and Transportation Technology
- Location: West Lafayette, Indiana
- Offers: B.S. in Aviation Management
- ABET-accredited program with access to real flight operations
- Strong focus on airport operations and aviation law
3. Ohio University – Russ College of Engineering and Technology
- Location: Athens, Ohio
- Offers: Bachelor in Aviation Management
- FAA-certified training environment
- Focus on business, technology, and logistics
4. Florida Institute of Technology
- Location: Melbourne, Florida
- Offers: B.S. in Aviation Management and Aviation Management – Flight
- Strong training in airline administration and aviation law
- Also offers online options
5. University of North Dakota (UND) – John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences
- Location: Grand Forks, North Dakota
- Known for aviation programs with business management integration
- Strong fleet, airport facilities, and experienced faculty
- High job placement rate
6. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)
- Location: Murfreesboro, Tennessee
- Offers: B.S. in Aerospace with a concentration in Aviation Management
- Internship opportunities at Nashville International Airport
- Competitive tuition and excellent regional reputation
7. Arizona State University – Polytechnic Campus
- Offers: B.S. in Aeronautical Management Technology
- Specializes in aviation operations and air transportation systems
- Located near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
Online Aviation Management Degree Options
If you want to study remotely, some universities offer flexible online degrees:
- Embry-Riddle Worldwide – Fully online Aviation Business programs
- Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) – B.S. in Aviation Management (in collaboration with FAA-certified partners)
- Liberty University – Online B.S. in Aviation Management with strong Christian values
Job Roles and Average Salaries
After completing a degree in aviation management, you can explore roles such as:
- Airport Operations Manager – $80,000 to $110,000
- Airline Manager – $90,000+
- Aviation Safety Inspector – $75,000+
- Cargo Logistics Manager – $70,000 to $100,000
Top employers include:
- Delta Airlines
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
- TSA
- FAA
- Boeing
Final Tips for Choosing the Right College
- Check for FAA and ABET accreditation
- Look for internship tie-ups with airports/airlines
- Compare tuition, financial aid, and job placement stats
- Prefer colleges near major aviation hubs
- Research faculty and alumni networks in the industry
Conclusion
Aviation management is an exciting and rewarding field, and the USA offers some of the best colleges to start or advance your career in it. Whether you want to manage airline operations or work at a major international airport, the programs listed above are designed to get you there.