Aircraft Builder Education Center
Accessible aviation training with a nonprofit education mission.
ABEC connects students, mentors, instructors, and aircraft through affordable noncommercial flight training, STEM-based learning, and community aviation programs in Springfield, Illinois.
Training Paths
Choose the right first step.
Private Pilot
A full certificate pathway for students who want to fly with passengers for personal travel and recreation.
Sport Pilot
A focused path into light-sport flying with a lower time requirement and a practical training footprint.
Ground School
Structured classroom and study support for the knowledge, safety, and decision-making side of flying.
Introductory Flight
Explore aviation before enrolling.
An Introductory Flight is a hands-on educational experience designed to help new participants explore aviation, learn how aircraft operate, and understand the fundamentals of safe flight.
- Cost
- $150
- Enrollment Credit
- $100 will be credited if you enroll with ABEC.
Ready To Enroll?
Tell us about your goals and current experience.
Support ABEC
Help the next student take flight.
Your gift helps an aspiring aviator look up, dream bigger, and take their first step into aviation. Every dollar you give fuels hands-on STEM learning, opens doors for students who never imagined themselves in a cockpit, and keeps ABEC's aircraft flying for education, not profit. Together, we're building the next generation of pilots, engineers, and leaders.