Former Student Sues United Aviate Academy Over Training Delays
A former student is suing United Aviate Academy (UAA) for $500,000, claiming the airline-sponsored flight school misrepresented its training timeline, causing significant financial and career setbacks. The lawsuit follows a March 2025 class action filed by other former students with similar grievances.
Plaintiff Carrie Lynne Thompson enrolled in UAA in October 2022, based on promotional materials promising commercial pilot certification within 12 months. The academy, owned by United Airlines and based at Phoenix Goodyear Airport, was marketed as a fast-track program to address the growing pilot shortage.
Thompson alleges it took her nine months to receive a Private Pilot License—originally projected to take just two months. She says the prolonged program exceeded 18 months and prevented her from working during that period, leading to over $49,000 in tuition, $25,000 in relocation expenses, and roughly $100,000 in lost wages. Her complaint, filed in July 2024 and amended in April 2025, cites violations of the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act and false advertising.
The lawsuit claims UAA students were routinely delayed and dismissed for falling behind due to factors beyond their control. Thompson also criticized a January 2023 graduation ceremony attended by United CEO Scott Kirby, alleging only one student had actually completed the program.
On May 1, a federal judge granted United’s motion to strike the amended complaint, citing unauthorized new claims. Thompson, who is representing herself, may still contest the ruling.
United Airlines stated it stands by the quality of UAA’s training program and highlighted the successful graduation of hundreds of students.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, aviationa2z.com