ERAU Launches Online Pathway for Rotorcraft Students

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has announced a new academic partnership with Panhandle Helicopter Academy in Panama City Beach, Florida, designed to support students pursuing helicopter training and who want to advance into higher education and leadership roles in the aviation industry.

Under the agreement, students who complete FAA-approved helicopter pilot training at PHA will be able to transfer select credits earned through their flight training toward associate or bachelor’s degrees through Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide Campus. The academic pathway is designed to accelerate graduation by aligning FAA certifications and ratings with ERAU’s credit requirements.

“Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is committed to expanding access to higher education for aviation professionals, no matter where they are in their careers or in the world,” said John R. Watret, Embry-Riddle Worldwide chancellor. “Through this partnership, PHA students can leverage their flight training to continue seamlessly into our degree programs.”

The flexible online format of Embry-Riddle Worldwide allows students to complete academic coursework while balancing flight operations, work, and personal obligations.

JR Hott, president of Panhandle Helicopter Academy, called the partnership a key advancement for helicopter students: “This collaboration provides our students with a direct pathway to advance their careers, while earning credit for work already done as part of flight training and benefiting from a university that leads the world in online aviation education.”