Moravian University has announced the launch of the Aviation Management program, a new academic initiative that will begin enrolling students in fall 2026. This new program will offer state-of-the-art aviation education in the Lehigh Valley region, combining rigorous instruction with practical flight training, industry partnerships, and a commitment to safety, innovation, and student success. Initial program offerings will include Aviation Management and a Professional Pilot program, with future expansion planned for adding an Air Traffic Control program and more. Moravian intends to launch the Aviation Management program in partnership with flyGATEWAY, one of the leading flight schools in the Mid-Atlantic region.
The Aviation Management program will be led by Mark S. Cronin, a retired American Airlines captain and founder of the Velocity R Aviation Foundation. Cronin brings more than 40 years of experience in aviation to this program director role, including over 32 years as a pilot for American Airlines, 10 years as a Chief Pilot, and 7 years of active duty service in the United States Air Force as both an A-10 pilot and Instructor pilot.
As the region’s fastest growing university and the 5th fastest-growing in the country, Moravian continues to expand its academic portfolio in response to evolving student interests and workforce demands. The Aviation Management program will build on Moravian’s ongoing goal to to be a forward-thinking institution that equips graduates for careers in high-demand and high-skill fields.
“Launching an Aviation Management program is a transformative step for Moravian,” said Bryon Grigsby, president of Moravian University. “In 2024, we opened the School of Professional Studies & Innovation and this new program will now serve students with a passion for flight and aviation technology, while positioning the Lehigh Valley as a leader in high-skill aeronautics education.”
Moravian’s enrollment teams will begin recruiting the inaugural class immediately, with information sessions and open houses scheduled through 2026. Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) will serve as the home base for all flight training for Moravian University’s Aviation Management program with some training flights taking place at Queen City Airport in Allentown, PA.
Aviation Management at Moravian
- Mission & Focus
The Aviation Management program will offer degrees in fields such as Aviation Management, Professional Pilot program, with expansion planned for an Air Traffic Control program and more. The goal is to nurture pilots, aviation leaders, and technical professionals ready to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving industry.
- Integrated Flight Training & Academics
Students will complete both the theory and hands-on flight training required for FAA certifications. The Aviation Management program will be supported by faculty with real-world aviation experience and strong safety credentials.
- Student Success & Placement
From the outset, Moravian will emphasize outcomes: industry placement, licensure/pass rates, internship experiences, and professional mentorship. Moravian Admissions will also support students through advising, financial aid, and scholarship programs targeted to aviation.
- Degrees Offered
Initially, students will have the ability to earn a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management or a Bachelor of Science, Professional Pilot.
