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Facilities & Training Resources

Flight training for Coe College’s aviation program takes place at the Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), home to Coe’s dedicated Aeronautical Field Station. Located within 15 minutes of campus in Cedar Rapids, this professional airport environment allows students to train alongside commercial airline traffic while benefiting from the safety and accessibility of a controlled regional airport. 

The Aeronautical Field Station gives students hands-on access to aircraft, simulators, instructors and aviation resources in a real-world setting, providing experience with the procedures, communications and operations they’ll encounter in professional aviation careers.

Training Aircraft

Students primarily train in Piper aircraft, providing hands-on experience in general aviation aircraft commonly used for flight training.

  • Single-Engine Training: Private, instrument and commercial training is  completed in Piper Warriors, giving students foundational experience in standard training aircraft.
  • Multi-Engine Training: Multi-engine training is typically completed in Piper Aztec or Piper Seminole aircraft, offering real-world twin-engine experience.
Aviation student after completing a solo flight

RedBird TD2 Flight Simulator

The RedBird TD2 is a flight simulator that provides realistic, controlled training opportunities. It replicates aircraft systems, flight conditions and emergency scenarios, allowing students to practice maneuvers safely before taking to the skies. The simulator also allows students to continue building proficiency when flying conditions are limited.

Eastern Iowa Airport

With the Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) as a partner, you’ll complete your flight training out of a major regional airport with five airlines that provide service to 17 nonstop destinations. Couple that with expertise in the classroom and an aviation network cultivated by the #11 career services in the country and your preparation for your aviation career will go above established standards. The airport has a busy daily schedule of flights across major commercial, freight and private carriers. In 2025, the airport exceeded 1.6 million passengers. The operations of the airport is the perfect backdrop and proving ground for your aviation education.

Aviation Management Internship

CID offers a10-week paid internship in airport management, giving students hands-on experience across multiple departments. Interns interact with Administration, Facilities, Guest Services, Maintenance and the Public Safety Department.