HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Marshall University is nearly set for take-off to its aviation school following announcements on Thursday.
The Marshall University Board of Governors approved the purchase of three airplanes for the planned program.
According to the university, two Cirrus SR-20 airplanes, valued at $500,000 each were purchased.
A single-engine used plane with cable controls also was approved for purchase with a price tag of up to $175,000, officials said. The used plane is for teaching aviation students spin maneuvers.
The board also approved naming the aviation school the Marshall University Bill Noe Flight School in honor of Marshall alumnus and board member Bill Noe.
Marshall said Noe had a successful career in aviation, starting as a flight instructor and working his way up to serving as chief operating officer of NetJets, North America., a Columbus, Ohio-based company geared to meeting private air travel needs.
The aviation school is planned to be at Charleston’s Yeager Airport.