Applications for 2026 Scholarships: January 2 – Feb 15, 2026
Albuquerque Chapter 179 of the Experimental Aircraft Association awards scholarships annually to candidates pursuing aviation education as a career or hobby including flight training, A&P certification, or other activities for applicants’` intent on entering an aviation-related occupation. The amount and number of grants are determined each year and contingent on available funding. Recipients will be notified and awarded at our March Chapter Gathering.
For the first time ever, our scholarships will be open to adults over the age of 25 years old. So, no matter your age or goals in aviation, you can apply to our scholarship. The starting age to apply is 15 years old. The application is the same for both scholarships.
To qualify, you must:
- Be older than 15 years of age and a resident of New Mexico.
- Describe your interest in aviation and your future. Include your aviation goal(s), how much ($) you are requesting, specific justification for how it will be spent, any connections to EAA Chapter 179, any aviation experience and achievements, and how you will give back to the community after reaching your goals.
- Provide a copy of an unofficial school transcript (unless you’ve been out of formal education for more than 5 years).
- Provide at least one reference letter (no more than three) from someone other than a family member who is familiar with your motivation, ability, and potential regarding aviation.
- Scholarship amounts will vary.
To apply, proceed to the Application Form
Application tips:
- Show us your dedication! Start your flight training/education journey NOW. Having completed ground school or FAA Written Exam will make your application stand out.
- Get involved! Check out other areas of our website to find out when our monthly meetings and other activities are and join us.
- Be very specific and thorough with your application, and answer all of the questions fully. Don’t leave us with questions or wanting more.
- Have a plan. No matter if your goals are professional or for hobby, we need to know how you plan to get there.
- Send eMail to scholarships@eaa179.org with any questions.
An important criteria is the applicant’s commitment to pursuing aviation. An application that describes personal accomplishments or work-in-progress assist the committee selection. For example, for those with a goal of becoming a pilot, EAA offers a guide for attaining a pilot certificate (“Pilot Training Steps“); progress on such activities may demonstrate commitment. Scholarship funds cannot be used for general studies and school expenses. Funds are paid directly to the school or instructor. Examples of how these funds may be used:
- Working toward certification including CFI fees, aircraft rental, and tuition
- FAA testing fees
- FAA textbooks, online and printed study guides, and other material related to the recipient’s scholarship endeavors
Questions? Email us at: EAA 179 Scholarship
Like what we’re doing? You Can Help! >We appreciate donations of any amount to our main scholarship fund, the Bob Hartman Memorial Scholarship, Jay Schmitt Memorial Scholarship, “Doc” Weaver Memorial Scholarship, or Reimer Memorial Scholarship funds. Chapter 179 is a 501c(3) tax exempt charitable organization. Donate online or send a check to “EAA 179 Scholarship; Double Eagle II Airport, 7401 Atrisco Vista Blvd NW #179, Albuquerque, NM 87120-6601”.
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