APS launches jet transition program for aspiring professional pilots

Aviation Performance Solutions has introduced a new Jet Transition Program in Mesa, Arizona, to give pilots real-world jet experience as they move toward airline, corporate and other professional aviation careers. The training is designed to build handling skills and address loss of control in flight, the leading cause of aviation fatalities worldwide.

Why it matters: - APS is targeting a gap between general aviation training and professional jet operations. - The program is built to give pilots practical jet experience before they enter airline, corporate or other professional flying roles. - The training also centers on loss of control in flight, or LOC-I, which APS identifies as the leading cause of aviation fatalities worldwide.

What happened: - Aviation Performance Solutions announced the launch of its Jet Transition Program in Mesa, Arizona, on Aug. 6, 2026. - The program uses the SIAI-Marchetti S-211 and does not require a jet type-rating, high-performance endorsement or high-altitude endorsement. - The launch includes enrollment now open, with training slots available through the program page.

The details: - The program is designed for pilots progressing toward airline, corporate or other professional aviation careers. - Participants can choose from a half-day introductory jet experience or multi-day programs. - Multi-day options can include simulator sessions, virtual reality training and optional high-altitude flight profiles. - Training is led by highly experienced military jet instructors. - APS says the curriculum uses its UPRT methodology to train stalls, unusual attitudes and aircraft upset scenarios in a high-performance jet environment.

Between the lines: - The program appears aimed at reducing the experience gap that can exist when pilots move from smaller aircraft to jets. - APS is positioning Jet Transition as both a confidence-building step and a safety tool, with LOC-I prevention at the center. - Paul BJ Ransbury, CEO of APS, said the program is meant to give pilots meaningful real-world jet experience at a critical stage in their development and to build confidence and capability.

What's next: - Pilots can book training now. - APS is likely to use the program as another entry point into its broader UPRT training pipeline. - The company also says its training approach is supported by independently verified research showing improved upset recognition, recovery performance and resilience to startle and surprise.

The bottom line: - APS is betting that early, hands-on jet exposure can help prepare aspiring professional pilots for safer transitions into advanced flying roles.