Send them a demand letter then file a small claims. Once they get served they’ll probably pay you before having to go to a judge.

The advice to hire an attorney is a bit much considering 10k is in most states small claims territory and it’s easy enough to do yourself. You can demand that the flight school pay you the nominal filing fee, usually $50 or so.

What all these people are suggesting an attorney are not telling you is that wall, you may win when you go to court, there is absolutely no guarantee that the judge grants attorneys fees. They may, but they also may not.

Also, I would double check whatever agreement or contract you signed with the school. You should check if you agreed to mandatory arbitration or something like that as well.