Illinois Aviation Academy to Host AERO Fest 2026, Inspiring the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. — (April 8th, 26) — Illinois Aviation Academy (IAA) is set to host AERO Fest on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at its flight training facility in West Chicago, Illinois. The event invites aspiring aviators, students, and families to experience aviation firsthand through interactive activities, aircraft exploration, and direct engagement with aviation professionals.

AERO Fest is designed to provide an immersive introduction to the world of aviation, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore aviation training pathways, meet experienced instructors, and gain insight into flight training at an FAA Part 141 flight school.

“Events like AERO Fest are critical in helping future aviators take that first step toward flight training,” said Rob Polston, CEO of Spartan. “We are proud to open our doors and hangars to the community and provide hands-on experiences that bring aviation to life.”

Hosted at IAA’s West Chicago campus, the event will feature a range of interactive and educational experiences, including:

• Hands-on aircraft exploration and facility tours
• Opportunities to meet Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs)
• Insights into pilot training programs and career pathways
• Exposure to aviation topics such as airspace, weather, and avionics
• Networking opportunities with aviation professionals and current students

Featured Guest Speakers

As part of the day’s programming, attendees will hear directly from aviation professionals who have successfully navigated the pathway from training to career:

• Megan Novak, a recent Illinois Aviation Academy graduate of the CFI Academy, will share her journey through flight training and her transition into instructing.
• Scott Malcom, a current Captain with American Airlines, will provide insight into the professional pilot career path and the opportunities available within the airline industry.

AERO Fest is tailored for prospective students and aviation enthusiasts looking to learn more about flight training and the steps required to pursue a career in aviation. The event supports IAA’s mission of developing the next generation of pilots through accessible training and industry engagement opportunities.

Illinois Aviation Academy, a proud partner of Spartan Education Group, serves as an official training location for programs such as the Atlas Cadet Academy, providing comprehensive training for multiple FAA certifications and ratings.

Event Details:
What: AERO Fest 2026
When: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Where: Illinois Aviation Academy Flight Facility, West Chicago, IL

For more information or to register, visit: Register for AERO Fest 2026

About Illinois Aviation Academy (IAA)

Located in West Chicago, IL, at DuPage Airport (KDPA), the Illinois Aviation Academy (IAA) is a part of Spartan Education Group, LLC, and has been training pilots for three decades. Today, IAA's training facility spans 30,000 square feet and houses a fleet of over twenty-five aircraft, including the Cessna 172s and Piper Aztecs. IAA provides FAA-approved Part 141 flight training and is a proud partner of Atlas Air Worldwide. Spartan Education Group also owns Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology and is proud to have trained pilots and technicians for over 95 years.

About Spartan Education Group

Spartan Education Group, LLC (SEG) owns and operates Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, an accredited system of schools with campuses in Tulsa, Oklahoma homa; Broomfield, Colorado; Inglewood, California; and Riverside, California. Spartan College has more than 97 years of history and has trained more than 100,000 pilots and aviation technicians.

SEG also owns several independent flight training operations, including McAir Aviation (FAA Part 141), Illinois Aviation Academy (FAA Part 141), and Spartan Flight Academy (FAA Part 61). These flight schools provide non-Title IV flight training and operate independently from Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology. Federal student aid is not available for these flight training programs, and completion of training does not guarantee certification or employment.