Private Pilot

Earning your Private Pilot certificate is an accomplishment like no other! As a Private Pilot you will be able to fly wherever you’d like under blue skies. Training to be a private pilot is a combination of aeronautical knowledge and experience and consists of learning how to maneuver and control the airplane during takeoff and landing, fly long distances to other airports, fly at night, and communicate with Air Traffic Control (ATC). Lessons are generally two hours long and consist of both flight time and ground instruction. Our instructors will teach you everything you need to be a safe and confident pilot.

Requirements

Summary Requirements for Private Pilot Certificate

  • At least 17 years of age

  • Third class medical certificate

  • FAA written test (passing grade is 70)

  • FAA practical (oral and flight) exam

  • Flight training as listed below:

Flight Hour Requirements for Private Pilot License:
(All times are the FAA Part 61 minimums, expect more like 45-60 hours)

At least 40 hours total flight time that includes:

At least 20 hours flight training (dual) that includes:

  1. At least 3 hours cross-country flight training in a single engine airplane

  2. At least 3 hours night time flight training in a single engine airplane, that includes

    • One cross country flight over 100 nm

    • 10 night takeoffs and landings to full stop

  3. At least 3 hours instrument flight training (hood or actual) in single engine airplane

  4. At least 3 hours flight training in a single engine airplane within 2 calendar months preceding the practical exam

At least 10 hours solo flight time in single engine airplane that includes:

  1. At least 5 hours solo cross-country time, including one flight over 150 nm total, 3 landing points, and at least one landing point 50 nm from original departure point

  2. Three solo takeoffs and landings to a full stop at an airport with a control tower

Estimated hours and costs for completion:

  • Total flight hours on private pilot curriculum: approximately 45-60 flight hours including about 30-35 hours dual and 15 to 25 hours solo

  • Total ground lesson hours (no FAA minimum): 30-35 hours dual

  • Supplies: $1,000

  • Examiner’s fee: $1,000

  • Total cost on private pilot curriculum (includes airplane rental and dual instruction) - approximately $13,000 -$19,000 depending on aircraft used