— By Sharon Cheung, Director, National Programs and Community Relations, COPA 

 COPA is pleased to announce that we have launched our 2023 scholarship program, offering three scholarships, valued at a total of $30,000 to support flight training for eight well deserving individuals. 

Applications are now being accepted until March 1^st, 2023.  

Eligibility criteria, application questions and additional details can be viewed on the COPA website under Scholarships & Awards > COPA Scholarships.  

Available Scholarships 

Neil J. Armstrong Ab-Initio Scholarship 

1 award valued at $14,000 

Since 1995, the COPA Neil J. Armstrong Scholarship has financially supported the development of young pilots aged between 16 and 21. This longstanding scholarship was created in honour of Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame inductee Neil J. Armstrong. COPA’s Neil J. Armstrong Ab-Initio Scholarship provides up to $14,000 toward eligible training costs associated with obtaining a Private Pilot License (PPL). 

 Applicants are assessed on their demonstrated interest in aviation, community involvement, academic achievements, ability to set and achieve goals, and commitment to completing flight training. A COPA membership is not necessary. This award comes with a free one-year COPA Student membership.  

COPA New Wings Scholarship 

1 award valued at $5,000 

 The COPA New Wings Scholarship helps make flying more accessible and affordable in Canada by providing up to $5,000 towards eligible training costs for an outstanding aspiring pilot, 21 years of age or older, each year. 

The scholarship was introduced in 2023 and is generously supported by Diamond Doors. 

 COPA Advanced Flight Training Scholarship 

3 awards valued at $2,500 each 

The COPA Advanced Flight Training Scholarship promotes Canadian pilot development by providing annual scholarships to student pilots in advanced flight training programs. 

Each year up to three recipients are awarded $2,500 to be used for eligible training costs associated with advanced flight training such as a commercial license, various endorsements or ratings for pilots who already have a PPL.

To qualify, applicants must be 18 or older and have completed their PPL. Applications must also be a current COPA member in good standing. Recipients are chosen based on merit, including personal aspirations, contributions towards the advancement of General Aviation as well as their demonstrated commitment to promoting flight safety through advanced flight training. 

COPA Drone Pilot Scholarship  

3 awards valued at $1,000 each 

Through the COPA Drone Pilot Scholarship, three COPA members 18 and older will receive training to obtain their advanced RPAS pilot certificate. The scholarship includes access to RPAS ground school, flight reviews and exam expenses (conditions apply).    

Recipients will be chosen based on their involvement and participation in General Aviation activities, events, or organizations.   

Application Process 

1. Visit oldcopa.org/copa-scholarships to learn more about each scholarship;
2. Complete the online form hyperlinked to each individual scholarship page;
3. Attach any Letters of Recommendation required per scholarship to the online form; 
4. Submit your application before March 1, 202

Eligible Applicants 

• Applicants must be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada. 
• Please see each individual scholarship for specific requirements.

Ineligible Applicants  

• To ensure that as many aviators can benefit, successful applicants from previous years of these scholarships are not eligible to re-apply.
• Please see each individual scholarship for specific requirements. 

Interested in applying?  

Visit www.oldcopa.org/copa-scholarships to learn more.