Embry Riddle & Panhandle Helicopter Academy Partnership

Panhandle Helicopter Academy Partners with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

We are proud to announce an exciting new partnership between Panhandle Helicopter Academy (PHA) and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide — the global leader in aviation and aerospace education.

This collaboration creates a clear academic pathway for helicopter students who want to continue their aviation journey beyond flight training. Through this alliance, students completing PHA’s FAA-approved helicopter training can transfer select credits toward an associate or bachelor’s degree at Embry-Riddle Worldwide. This means you can build on the skills you gain in the cockpit and apply them directly to your higher education goals.

What This Means for Our Students

  • ✔ Credit for Flight Training – FAA certificates and ratings earned at PHA can count toward college credits.
  • ✔ Faster Degree Completion – Save time (and tuition) by applying your flight hours toward academic programs.
  • ✔ Flexible Online Learning – Embry-Riddle’s online format makes it possible to balance coursework with flying, work, and personal schedules.
  • ✔ Career Advancement – Pairing hands-on helicopter training with a university degree helps open doors to leadership roles in aviation.

Shared Commitment to Aviation Excellence

Embry-Riddle Worldwide Chancellor Dr. John R. Watret emphasized the university’s mission to expand access to aviation education across the globe, noting that this partnership allows helicopter students to seamlessly continue their studies.

“This collaboration provides our students with a direct pathway to advance their careers, while earning credit for work already done as part of flight training and benefiting from a university that leads the world in online aviation education.”

JR Hott, President of Panhandle Helicopter Academy

Building the Future of Aviation Professionals

At Panhandle Helicopter Academy, our mission has always been to prepare the next generation of helicopter pilots with technical expertise, safety, and professionalism. Partnering with Embry-Riddle adds another layer of opportunity — helping students strengthen both their flight skills and academic credentials.

We are excited to see our students take advantage of this pathway and continue building successful careers in aviation.

📍 Learn more about our training programs: Panhandle Helicopter Academy