Learning to fly in the United States attracts flight students from across the globe due to world-class training infrastructure, diverse airspace, and competitive costs. If you are an international student, non-U.S. citizen, or resident alien planning to train in the Memphis region, completing the Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) approval process is a required first step.
Under U.S. federal law (49 CFR 1552), non-U.S. citizens must receive TSA clearance before beginning flight instruction toward key pilot certificates. Here is your step-by-step guide to navigating FTSP approval smoothly.
Certificates Requiring TSA Clearance
TSA FTSP clearance is required for non-U.S. citizens undertaking the following training events:
Initial Private Pilot License (PPL) or Sport Pilot Certificate
Initial Instrument Rating (IR)
Initial Multi-Engine Rating (such as training in our Beechcraft Duchess)
Note: A single introductory Discovery Flight or recurrent flight review does not require formal TSA security clearance.
Step-by-Step TSA FTSP Approval Process
Create an Account on the FTSP Portal: Visit the official TSA Flight Training Security Program website (fts.tsa.dhs.gov) and establish a candidate profile.
Select Visionary Aviation Academy: Submit a formal training request specifying Visionary Aviation Academy as your flight training provider, indicating the specific course (e.g., Initial Private Pilot) and target aircraft.
Flight School Verification: Our admissions team receives automated notification from the TSA and confirms your training request details in the portal.
Pay the TSA Processing Fee: Candidates pay the required non-refundable TSA background check fee online via credit card.
Submit Fingerprints: Once notified by the TSA, schedule a fingerprinting appointment at an authorized local collection center (often available near international airports or security processing sites).
Receive Official Permission to Initiate Training: Upon successful background clearance, the TSA issues a formal "Permission to Initiate Training" email to both you and Visionary Aviation Academy.
Smooth Transitions for International Pilots
At Visionary Aviation Academy, we guide international students through fleet selection tailored to their goals:
Van’s RV-12 & Cessna 172: Ideal platforms for completing primary Private Pilot flight hours efficiently.
Beechcraft Duchess: Excellent twin-engine platform for international commercial candidates needing multi-engine qualifications.
Fly in the U.S. with Visionary Aviation Academy
Navigating international security approvals is straightforward when you have an experienced team in your corner. At Visionary Aviation Academy, "where vision becomes reality," we welcome international students and provide structured guidance every step of the way.
Ready to start your TSA application and flight training in Memphis? Contact Visionary Aviation Academy today to begin!
