A solo flight occurs when a student pilot flies an aircraft without the assistance or presence of a certified flight instructor and is considered a professional milestone in the aviation industry.

As a student in the college's nationally-recognized aviation program, Mr. Neukom studies flight aspects such as aerodynamics, micrometeorology, applied flight dynamics and integrated flight operations.

In addition to earning a private pilot's certificate, upon graduation, he can earn up to three separate ratings - the first steps to earning a commercial pilot certificate.

Daniel Webster officials said the college's aviation flight operations program leads to the bachelor of science degree and combines general academics preparation and professional pilot education.

They said it is designed "to prepare students for employment as professional pilots and for leadership roles in a variety of flight operations settings or enrollment in an appropriate masters degree program."