Mission Aviation Training Academy Brings Faith and Aviation Together
The Rotary Club of Arlington recently learned about the inspiring work of Tim Finneron and Mission Aviation Training Academy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located at the Arlington Municipal Airport.
Mission Aviation Training Academy prepares missionary pilots and aircraft mechanics to serve people living in remote areas around the world. Their mission is not only to train individuals to fly and maintain aircraft, but to equip missionaries with the mechanical and aviation skills needed to solve problems independently while serving in the field. Betty Green was one the builders of Missionary Aviation. People who have a passion for missionary work are the students that come to this program. They are an incredible group of people. Students entering the aviation program must have previously attended Bible college. The complete training can take five to seven years and costs approximately $60,000 per student. This would normally cost about $300,000 dollars to get this training. They are careful in how they select the students to make sure they are committed to this program and this work. The academy works to help students graduate debt-free by providing opportunities for them to work while completing their training. Scholarships also help make the program accessible to future missionary pilots and mechanics.
The academy also introduces young people to aviation through summer programs. Aviation training opportunities are available for students as young as 14, with summer camp programs serving youth ages 14–18. Graduates go on to provide aviation services to missionary and humanitarian organizations, helping deliver supplies, provide humanitarian assistance, conduct medical evacuations, and reach communities that may otherwise be difficult or impossible to access. Mission teams also bring translated Bibles to people living in remote countries and help teach community members to read so they can read the Bible for themselves. Mission Aviation Training Academy is also involved in community and humanitarian efforts, including supporting Operation Christmas Child. With assistance from Samaritan's Purse, the organization helped process approximately 12,000 shoeboxes in 2025.
The academy's ongoing needs include support for missionary staff, student scholarships and training, aircraft maintenance and fuel, hangar and operating costs, and future building improvements. They also support ministry efforts in Alaska and continue working to identify areas where aviation can meet critical humanitarian and ministry needs. Like many nonprofits, Mission Aviation Training Academy relies on the generosity of donors and community partners to keep its doors open and continue preparing the next generation of missionary pilots and aviation professionals.
The Rotary Club of Arlington appreciates Tim Finneron for sharing the important work being done right here at Arlington Municipal Airport—and for reminding us how aviation can connect people, deliver hope, and serve communities around the world. Tim invited anyone that would like to come tour their facility anytime and see the work that they are doing and how it is impacting the community and the world in many positive ways.
