International Flight Training

Des Moines, Iowa

How to complete TSA's Flight Training Security Program (FTSP)

At Vertical Vision Flight Academy, we welcome student pilots from around the world. If you're not a U.S. citizen, federal law requires a TSA security screening before your first lesson. This guide explains how international students can train under Part 61 at our Des Moines flight school, covering every step from creating your TSA FTSP account to your first flight at Des Moines International Airport (KDSM).

What Is FTSP?

The Flight Training Security Program is run by the Transportation Security Administration. It was formerly called the Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP).

  • Required by federal law for non-U.S. citizens
  • Applies to every U.S. flight school, including Part 61
  • Must be completed before any training begins

Who Needs It?

Anyone who is not a U.S. citizen or U.S. national seeking training toward a pilot certificate, rating, or type rating.

  • Includes simulator time in our Redbird FMX
  • U.S. citizens skip FTSP entirely
  • Citizens bring a U.S. passport, or birth certificate with photo ID

Step by Step: Getting Approved

  1. Contact Us First

    Call (515) 337-2159 or send us a message. We'll confirm your training goals and give you the provider details you need for your application.

  2. Create Your FTSP Account

    Register on the TSA FTSP portal at fts.tsa.dhs.gov. Have your passport, visa information, identity documents, and current address ready.

  3. We Confirm Your Request

    Vertical Vision notifies TSA through the portal that you've requested training with us.

  4. Pay the TSA Fee

    TSA charges a fee for the security threat assessment. The current amount and payment options are listed in the portal.

  5. Get Fingerprinted

    You'll be directed to an approved fingerprinting location. TSA uses your prints for an FBI criminal history check.

  6. Receive Your Approval

    TSA completes identity, immigration, watchlist, and criminal history checks, then sends its Determination of Eligibility to us through the portal.

  7. Photo on Arrival

    On your first day, we verify your ID in person and upload your photo to the portal, as TSA requires.

  8. Start Flying

    Once your approval is confirmed, you're cleared to begin training at KDSM.

One Approval, Your Whole Path

Before July 30, 2024, international students had to reapply for every new rating. TSA's FTSP Final Rule changed that: approval is now time-based rather than tied to a single course.

  • Valid for five years
  • Moves with you between ratings
  • No reapplying from Private to Instrument, Commercial, and CFI

A Note on Visas

FTSP is a security screening, not a visa. Because Vertical Vision trains under Part 61, [we are not authorized to issue Form I-20s for M-1 student visas].

  • You must hold a visa or status that permits flight training
  • TSA's screening includes an immigration status check
  • We recommend consulting an immigration attorney first

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does FTSP approval take?

Most approvals come through in about 5 business days, but the process can take up to 30 days. Apply at least a month before you plan to start, and don't book travel until your approval is confirmed.

Do I need to reapply for each new rating?

No. Under the current rule, your Determination of Eligibility is valid for five years and covers training across certificates and ratings.

Can Vertical Vision issue an I-20 for a student visa?

[No. As a Part 61 school, we do not issue I-20s for M-1 visas.] You'll need a visa or status that permits flight training. An immigration attorney can advise on the right option.

Who do I contact if I have trouble with the TSA portal?

The TSA FTSP Help Desk handles portal and application issues at (571) 227-1004. For anything about your training with us, call (515) 337-2159.

What is the difference between FTSP and AFSP?

They are the same program. TSA's Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP) was renamed the Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) under the Final Rule that took effect July 30, 2024, which also replaced per-rating applications with a five-year approval.

Can international students train at a Part 61 flight school?

Yes. FTSP applies to all U.S. flight schools, Part 61 and Part 141 alike. The main difference for international students is visas: Part 61 schools like ours [do not issue I-20s], so you'll need a visa or status that permits flight training.

What documents do I need for FTSP?

A valid passport, your visa or immigration documents, other identity documents requested in the portal, and your current address. You'll also complete fingerprinting and have your photo taken on your first day with us.

Do U.S. citizens need FTSP approval?

No. U.S. citizens and nationals only need to show proof of citizenship, such as a U.S. passport or a birth certificate with government photo ID, before their first lesson.

Is student housing available?

Yes. We work with nearby housing options for students relocating to Des Moines. Ask us for details when you reach out.