The truth is - affordability of aviation colleges - as you total - doesn’t exist. There are some that might give merit - LeTourneau, Lewis…definitely ERAU and Florida Tech. Yes, most haven’t heard of Florida Tech but it’s got a great rep. Then there’s Purdue and UND. Ohio U and Ohio State are others.
It’s the flight costs that are expensive.
Someone showed the United program yesterday. Other airlines may be starting similar.
The good news is regional airlines salaries are up from the $18K of years ago…but it’s a long path…but a great path for one who dreams of flying.
You’ll need parental help including loan co-signs. You’ll need cheap tuition and the ability to work as a flight instructor.
One thing that is never good is too much debt - so no matter what, try not to take on more than the federal allowance of loans - which is in the high 20s.
The stress of too much debt on anyone is not good.
Don’t forget if you borrow 100K, you are paying back so much more due to interest - and rates are set to rise.
Good luck.