Here are some questions most prospective pilots ask:
What does it cost to learn to fly?
Some costs of obtaining your pilot certificate will be the same at any school; an FAA medical exam, books and supplies, written test fee, and the practical examiner's fee. These items will total approximately $600-1000.
Other costs are more variable, such as the cost of renting the training aircraft, and the actual instruction cost. At a minimum, the FAA requires 20 hours of dual instruction and 40 hours of flight time for a Private Pilot certificate. Although some students do obtain their certificate in the minimum amount of time, our average flight training time is 50-60 hours. This usually equates to between between $10,000 and $12,000 for a Private Pilot certificate. Training more often (e.g., three times a week vs. once a week) can greatly help to reduce the overall time and expense in obtaining your pilot's license.
What are the requirements to obtain a private pilot license?
- You must be at least 17 years of age to be eligible for your private pilot certificate. You can begin flight training before your 17th birthday, however.
- You need to obtain an FAA medical certificate from an FAA approved doctor. We know the approved doctors in this area and will provide you with their names.
- You must be able to read and understand the English language. English is the language of flight communications around the world.
- You will need at least 40 hours flying the aircraft. At least 20 hours must be with a Certified Flight Instructor, and a least 10 hours must be solo flight time including a cross country flight of 150 nautical miles or more.
- You will need to pass a written examination consisting of multiple choice questions on various aviation topics including navigation, weather, communications, and airplane systems. You'll take this test after extensive dual and ground instruction and after studying the appropriate reference books. The questions won't be difficult when you and your instructor agree that you're ready to take the test. You'll take the test at our on site LaserGrade facility.
- You must successfully pass an oral exam and practical test flying your aircraft with an FAA examiner. This is the "final exam". You will practice the specific tasks and maneuvers for this test until you and your flight instructor are comfortable that you will be completely successful.