Private Pilot

Get Started With our Ground School

After the introductory flight lesson and you have discovered that flying is more fun than you have ever dreamed, it is time to earn your Private Pilot Certificate and see the world from a new perspective.

A safe and competent pilot is a result of careful instruction, a solid knowledge base and sound decision making. Your best alternative is to train with a full time, professional flight instructor, who is committed to YOUR success.

It's easier than you think; contact Benton Air Center and the sky will no longer be a limit.

Prerequisites to Beginning Your Training

• Read and Write English Language
• The ability to obtain an FAA third class medical
• At least 17 years of age at the time of the practical test
• Provide proof of US citizenship (normally a US passport, or birth certificate). Non-US citizens will need to complete the TSA background check process.

To earn your Private Pilot certificate, you must have at least 35 hours of total flight time (Part 141) or 40 hours of total flight time (Part 61), which must include:

• 20 Hours of dual flight time with an instructor
• 3 Hours of simulated instrument time
• 3 Hours of dual cross country
• 3 Hours in the preceding 2 months with an instructor before the checkride

3 Hours of night flight, including:

• A cross country greater than 100nm total distance
• 10 takeoffs and landings to a full stop

10 hours of solo flight time, including (only 5 for part 141):

• 5 Hours of solo cross country (only 3 for part 141)
• 1 solo cross country of at least 150 nautical miles total distance with 3 full stop landings
• 3 takeoffs and landings to a full stop at a towered airport