Hawkins Flight Academy has been recognized for its high standard of accomplishment in flight training by (AOPA), the world’s largest aviation association. The academy has earned a place among the 2026 Flight Training Experience Awards as a Distinguished Flight School, an honor reserved for flight training providers that receive consistently high marks from their students.

The Flight Training Experience Awards were created to highlight the very best flight training the industry has to offer. This recognition places Hawkins Flight Academy among a select group of schools nationwide that demonstrate excellence in training quality, professionalism, and student experience.

What the AOPA Flight Training Experience Awards Represent

Each year, AOPA gathers feedback directly from student pilots and certificated pilots through an online customer feedback process. These voluntary reviews focus on real training experiences, including instructional quality, school operations, communication, and overall atmosphere.

The 2026 awards were drawn from reviews submitted during the fall evaluation period. Schools recognized as Distinguished Flight Schools represent the highest-performing training organizations based on student input, not marketing claims or self-reported metrics.

Recognition Driven by Student Feedback

According to AOPA, this year’s recipients stood out for delivering both strong training outcomes and a supportive learning environment.

“This year customers highlighted an optimal combination of well-run training programs and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This year’s winners have demonstrated this enviable quality in their flight training operations to the highest degree,” said Chris Moser, Senior Director of Flight Training Education at the AOPA Foundation.

A Meaningful Milestone for Hawkins Flight Academy

For the leadership team at , the recognition carries particular significance because it reflects the voices of the students they serve.

Mike Harris, Co-Founder of Hawkins Flight Academy, shared: “This recognition means a great deal to us because it comes directly from the voices of our students. From day one, Hawkins was built around the belief that flight training should be personal, professional, and rooted in safety and trust. Being named a Distinguished Flight School by AOPA tells us we’re doing right by the people who place their dreams and their confidence in our hands.”

Built on Instructors, Culture, and Consistency

Matt Wilkins, Co-Founder of Hawkins Flight Academy, emphasized the role of the team behind the scenes.

“We’re incredibly proud of our instructors and staff, who show up every day with a genuine commitment to excellence. This award reflects a culture where students are supported, challenged, and welcomed as part of the Hawkins family. It’s an honor to be recognized alongside the very best flight training organizations in the country.”

Continuing the Standard

Operating out of Shelbyville, Tennessee and Tupelo, Mississippi, Hawkins Flight Academy remains focused on structured, professional pilot training with an emphasis on safety, consistency, and student success. The 2026 AOPA Distinguished Flight School recognition reinforces that commitment and sets a clear benchmark for the future.

As Hawkins continues to grow and refine its programs, the academy remains grounded in the same principles that earned this recognition: strong instruction, disciplined operations, and a training environment where students are treated as future professionals from day one.