Flight is a universal concept. Pilots around the world operate identical aircraft using similar techniques and procedures, allowing aviation to connect every corner of the globe. Yet even in an industry defined by accessibility, specialized training isn’t available everywhere. This is why many aspiring aviators consider moving for flight school, seeking the right location to begin their journey into professional aviation.

Despite the expansive range of aviation, many services are only available in certain locations. One of these services is flight training. While most airfields with a Fixed Based Operator (FBO) in the US offer some level of flight training, most airports do not have career flight training programs, leading many to look into moving for flight school. While we are unable to give information regarding all flight schools or every potential training location, we can offer information regarding what it is like to move to attend flight school at Axiom Aviation.

Picking a Location

Axiom Aviation has two training locations, Ogden and St. George, Utah. The Ogden location is Axiom’s primary flight training facility. Students who attend the Ogden location can complete all their training at the same location. Our St. George location is the school’s secondary location, but it offers all of the same services, and its students and instructors are given the same treatment as those in Ogden. Like their northern counterparts, students who attend the St. George location can complete all of their primary training at one facility, and the program is identical to include the SkyWest Partnership and a guaranteed flight instructor position upon completion of the program. 

Deciding which location is best for you will be primarily determined by your situation and ties to the region. For anyone who lives in the Salt Lake City metropolitan area, the Ogden location is a no-brainer. Those who live in nearby metro areas, such as Logan, are also encouraged to attend the Ogden location, with several students having completed the program while making a one-hour daily commute for flight school. While a long commute is far from ideal, it is certainly doable. 

The St. George location is optimally suited for those living in Southern Utah and the surrounding area. Several students have completed the program who have lived as far away as Cedar City by making a lengthy daily commute. 

But What About Those Who Are Not From Utah but Are Looking to Move to Attend Axiom? 

Students who are from or have familial ties to the Rocky Mountains will typically choose the location that is nearer to said ties. For example, I moved from Idaho to attend flight training and chose the Ogden location as it was notably closer to my family. On the other hand, someone from Southern Nevada, California, Arizona, or New Mexico will likely choose to attend flight school in St. George. 

What About Cost of Living and Career Opportunities?

The state of Utah is one of the fastest-growing states and has seen cost of living increase year over year. But this is not to say that it is impractical for someone to move to Utah for flight school. Fortunately, Ogden is located on the cheaper side of the Salt Lake Valley. However, while it is more affordable than Salt Lake or Provo it is still a relatively expensive area but does still offer semi-affordable housing. 

The rapid growth of the region has certainly increased the cost of living, but has simultaneously created many new jobs, making it a fairly healthy job market. Most students who have moved to the Ogden area for flight training have been able to find part-time employment relatively quickly to help support them and their families while in school. After graduation, all graduates of Axiom Aviation are guaranteed a flight instructor position. While we are unable to guarantee specific enrollment levels, our instructors tend to stay very busy and can typically make a living wage. 

St. George is also a rapidly growing area and has higher-than-average housing costs. Despite this, there are many semi-affordable housing developments in the area, along with a lot of job opportunities to meet the growing demand of the ever-expanding community. 

What About Long-Term Career Opportunities?

There are four passenger airlines with domiciles in Utah: SkyWest (our primary airline partner), Allegiant, Breeze Airways, and Delta Air Lines. In addition to these carriers, several small cargo operators such as Gem Air and Alpine Air operate throughout the region, along with numerous private jet companies. The overall job outlook for pilots in Utah remains strong, supported by the state’s rapid growth and diverse aviation presence. For those looking beyond local bases, there is also the option to commute to other airline hubs if they choose to work for an airline not based in Utah.

Starting at Axiom After Moving

The first step in starting at Axiom Aviation is to do a tour. If you live out of state, this may be done virtually. On the tour, we will break down the details of the program along with instructions for obtaining a medical certificate and securing financing. After these steps are complete, we will schedule a time to get you signed up. The sign-up must be done in person. We will do it once you have moved to the local area and are ready to begin training. There is no specified amount of time someone needs to live in Utah before starting. They simply need to be ready to dedicate the required time and effort towards flight training. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Moving for Flight School

Do I need to live in Utah before starting flight training at Axiom?

No. Students can relocate and begin training as soon as they complete their tour, medical certificate, and financing arrangements. There is no residency requirement.

Is it common for students to move for flight school?

Yes. Because not all airports offer professional flight training, many students move for flight school to access structured programs, airline pathways, and experienced instructors.

Which Axiom location should I choose if I’m moving from out of state?

Most students choose based on regional ties or geography. Those from northern states often select Ogden, while students from Nevada, Arizona, or California tend to choose St. George.

Is Utah affordable for students relocating for training?

Both Ogden and St. George have rising costs of living, but each also offers semi-affordable housing and strong local job markets for part-time work while training.

What career opportunities are available after I complete my training?

Axiom graduates are guaranteed a CFI position. Long-term, Utah hosts several airline and cargo operator domiciles, creating strong career pathways for new pilots.

Can I take a tour if I’m not in Utah yet?

Yes. Virtual tours are available for students who live out of state, allowing them to learn about the program before relocating.

Have questions about moving to Utah to attend Axiom? Give us a call at (262)297-4568. Or email us at info@flyaxiom.com