Aviation Workforce Development Act

This bill lets families use 529 college savings plans to pay for certain aviation training. It adds aviation maintenance courses (taught at FAA Part 147 schools) and commercial pilot courses (at Part 61 or Part 141 flight schools) to the list of “qualified education expenses,” like tuition, fees, books, supplies, and required equipment. Distributions made after the law takes effect would qualify tax-free, just like other 529 education uses.

In short, it makes it easier to use existing education savings for job-focused aviation training, helping people start or advance careers as aircraft mechanics and commercial pilots.

• Who is affected: Students training to become aircraft mechanics or commercial pilots; families with 529 plans.
• What changes: 529 funds can cover tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment for FAA-approved maintenance and commercial pilot courses without tax penalties.
• When: Applies to 529 distributions made after the law is enacted.