Beginning Private Pilots – Learning to Fly

• Be at least 16 years old to solo
• Be at least 17 years to take FAA practical test
• Be able to read, speak, and write in English
• Pass a physical exam administered by an Aviation Medical Examiner
• Pass a written exam (at least 70%)
• Complete a practical test with FAA examiner

Legal Minimum Required Instruction*

• 40 hours total flight time
• 20 hours of flight instruction
• 10 hours of solo flight
• 3 hours of cross country
• 3 hours of night instruction
• 3 hours of simulated instrument
• 3 hours of preparation for practical test
  
  *National average is approximately 80 hours

3 steps to becoming a Private Pilot

• Pre-Solo - Airplane handling, going to/from a practice area, take-offs and landings, radio communications (approx. 40 hours).
• Cross-country: Navigation to/from distant airports.  Advanced take-offs and landings, handling emergencies. (approx 20 hours).
• Practical test: Preparation for the FAA practical test. (approx. 20 hours).
  

Once you have earned a Private license, you can work toward other certificates. A Commercial certificate allows you to be paid for your flying. A CFI (Certificated Flight instructor) certificate enables you to teach others. An Airline Transport Pilot certificate (ATP) is what you'll need if you want to fly a commercial airliner. You can also add a variety of ratings that will allow you to expand your activities to include piloting multi-engine airplanes and/or navigating using instruments through the fog and clouds. 

CLICK HERE to contact the front desk for more information today!

*Assumes  typical $150/hr aircraft rate, $65/hr CFI fee.  Actual costs vary depending upon choice of aircraft, CFI, and total hours flown.  

Aircraft rentals are available for as low as $94/hr.  Instructor rates are available as low as $50 per hour.