Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, a Broomfield, Colorado-based institution with over 60 years of experience in aviation maintenance training, abruptly closed on November 17, 2023, following a letter of revocation from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA’s investigation uncovered significant non-compliance issues, including subpar instruction, inadequate record-keeping, and insufficient oversight of student training in the Part 147 curriculum required for FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification. As a result, the college is no longer authorized to issue A&P certificates, a crucial credential for aspiring aviation maintenance professionals.

The sudden closure affects around 130 students enrolled in various programs, who must now seek alternative education pathways to complete their training and pursue their careers. The college had previously received an FAA warning in 2022 regarding similar concerns, but the situation escalated rapidly in November. Students were informed of the closure via email and a brief on-campus announcement, leaving many feeling caught off guard and frustrated.

The US Department of Education is working to support affected students, exploring potential loan forgiveness options and transfer opportunities to other FAA-approved Part 147 schools. Several institutions, including Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Tulsa Tech, have expressed interest in establishing articulation agreements to help Spartan College students continue their studies.

The closure also impacts approximately 40 employees who have lost their jobs. While Spartan College leadership has remained largely silent since the initial announcement, the FAA maintains that the decision was necessary to uphold aviation maintenance standards and ensure national airspace system safety.

The future of the Broomfield campus remains uncertain, with the aviation community closely monitoring the Department of Education’s response and the support provided to displaced students. This situation highlights the importance of selecting accredited and compliant aviation maintenance training programs and serves as a reminder of the strict standards required for FAA certification.