"Even if it's expensive, I'll take out the loans", Caitlyn Blanco, a pilot student near New York, tells AFP. "But could it be a lot easier if I was provided the financial ability to just focus on school? Definitely," says the first-generation student, who has to work three jobs to pay for school and become a pilot, her longtime dream. In an industry struggling with a pilot shortage, the pricey training remains an obstacle only overcome by passionate students. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES