Earlier this year, Cameron Milleman of Muncie, Indiana, was selected as the recipient of the Flying Musicians Association (FMA) 2026 Solo Scholarship, helping put his aviation goals within reach. Read our earlier article, “Flying Musicians 2026 Solo Scholarship Recipient Selected Out of 42 Nominees,” for more on Cameron and his selection. The FMA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization for pilot musicians that brings together members from around the world, across all levels of proficiency and musical genres. Through performances, presentations, mentoring, networking, and scholarships, FMA members share their passions while inspiring, educating, encouraging, and supporting others.
Since receiving the scholarship, Milleman has continued to make progress toward his aviation goals. He recently completed his first solo flight—a significant milestone in any pilot’s training and an exciting step toward his future in aviation.
Milleman’s journey is a great example of the difference an aviation scholarship can make for an aspiring pilot. As we celebrate his accomplishment, the FMA is also looking ahead to the next generation of aviation enthusiasts. Nominations for the 2027 Solo Scholarship are now open, offering another opportunity to help a deserving student pursue flight training and take the next step toward a future in aviation.
About the Scholarship
This unique scholarship recognizes and rewards exceptional high school music students who also have a strong passion for aviation. The FMA Solo Program offers a flight training scholarship that sponsors selected recipients through their first solo flight, approximately 15 hours of dual flight time. Additionally, awardees receive:
- Assistance in obtaining flight training materials and gear.
- The role of a designated FMA Youth Ambassador for their
region, with opportunities to perform outreach at events.
All nominees receive:
- A sponsored student membership to the FMA.
- An official FMA shirt, product and SWAG from Sponsors.
- Assigned a mentor from FMA’s Mentor’s Ramp.
“The FMA Solo program is built on the belief that the discipline, practice, and concentration required to master a musical instrument are the same attributes that make a successful pilot,” said John Zapp, President/CEO of the FMA. “We look for students who have been taught the ‘right stuff’ through their music training and are ready to apply those skills in the cockpit.”
How to Nominate a Music Student
To be eligible, a music student must be a junior or senior in high school who is nominated by their music director or teacher. Music directors are encouraged to nominate students who have demonstrated a passion for both music and aviation, have achieved high academic success, and are good citizens. Nominees must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum age of 16 by March 31, 2027.
- Be able to obtain a 3rd Class FAA medical certificate or equivalent (USA applicants).
- Have proof of citizenship for the country where training will take place.
- Receive parental approval if under 18 years of age.
Nominations for the 2027 program will be accepted online. The deadline for submission is January 31, 2027. Finalists will be announced on March 1, 2027, with the recipient(s) being officially notified on May 1, 2027.
Details and documents can be found at FMA Solo Program – Flying Musicians Association, Inc.
First Solo
To learn more about Cameron Milleman’s journey from scholarship recipient to first solo, see the accompanying article, “My first Flight Hours & Solo at Johnson Flight Academy!”