General
Flight
Training
Questions
How long does it typically take to earn a private pilot’s license? Typically, earning a PPL can take anywhere from two to twelve months depending on a number of factors, which include training frequency, flight hours logged and individual aptitude. Training Frequency: Flying five to six days per week can result in readiness for your PPL check-ride within two to three months. Part-time students flying two to three times per week usually take four to six months to become PPL check-ride ready. Flight Hours Logged: For Part 61 flight schools, the FAA requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, including 20 hours of flight training with a CFI and ten hours of solo flight training before completing a PPL check-ride. For Part 141 flight schools, the FAA requires a minimum of 35 hours of total training, which includes 20 ours of flight training with a CFI and five hours of solo flight training. That being said, the national average is around 60 to 70 hours of preparation. Individual Aptitude: As with any learned skill, some individuals catch on and become comfortable and competent more quickly than others. This is highly dependent on each individual. Finding a CFI with whom you are compatible can make learning more effective and efficient.
What is the difference between Part 141 flight schools and Part 61 flight schools in the context of obtaining a private pilot’s license? Part 141 flight schools follow an FAA-approved syllabus and adhere to a more strictly defined and structured training schedule, including classroom/ground school instruction. This is the reason the FAA has established lower flight-hour requirements for Part 141 flight schools than those required of Part 61 flight schools. Part 61 flight schools offer more flexibility in scheduling and training methods, allowing for part-time training and/or a less structured approach than Part 141 flight schools. Therefore, the FAA has established a slightly higher number of flight-hours for PPL check-ride readiness for Part 61 flight school students. Part 61 flight school training tends to be more individualized and is more likely to be locally based.
How much does it typically cost to earn a private pilot’s license? Typically, earning a PPL can take anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000+ depending on a number of factors, including location, choice of instructor, aircraft type, training frequency and individual aptitude. Remember that total hours necessary before you will be check-ride ready will vary by individual and that the average is around 60 to 70 hours of preparation. Location: Urban areas can have higher rates than locations in less populated areas. Choice of Instructor: Flight schools and certified flight instructors (CFIs) charge varying rates. Shop around and compare prices, keeping in mind that the least expensive option may not be the best option for the right fit. Instruction can run anywhere from $50 to $100 per hour. Aircraft Type: Advanced aircraft models tend to cost more to rent than older models. Average rental rates can run from $150-$200 per hour for a single- engine aircraft like the ubiquitous Cessna 172, depending on age, avionics and location. Training Frequency: Less frequent lessons may prolong training and increase hours needed to become proficient. Individual Aptitude: Some individuals catch on and become comfortable and competent more quickly than others. Each student is different, in terms of how long it takes to master each required skill. Your CFI should be able to assess your progress and provide constructive feedback to help keep you on track. In addition to the flight training costs themselves, expect additional expenses for the required medical exam ($75-$200+), written exam ($150-$175) and practical exam (check-ride). Scholarships and financing options can help offset or defer costs. The AOPA https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/students/aopa-flight-training- scholarships , EAA https://www.eaa.org/eaa/learn-to-fly/scholarships and Women in Aviation International https://www.wai.org/scholarships are a few of the organizations that provide information on scholarship opportunities.
Q: What kinds of jobs can commercial pilots get hired to? A: A wide range of job options exist for commercial pilots. Flying for a major passenger airline is the position most people think of first. However, many other opportunities are also available within the industry. Here are a few examples: Cargo pilots transport packages, goods and other freight-type items worldwide, sometimes to remote locations accessible only by air. https://an.aero/life-as-a-cargo- pilot-duties-and-responsibilities/ Corporate pilots fly private business aircraft for companies that may hire them full time or use them on an as-needed, contract basis. https://pathwaystoaviation.org/job- seekers/learn-about-careers/corporate-pilot/ Military pilots perform a variety of jobs, including transport, surveillance, and combat. Many different sorts of aircraft are used, including helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. https://www.flyingmag.com/how-to-become-a-military-pilot/ Helicopter pilots work in several industries, such as military, tourism, agriculture, law enforcement and news media. https://www.helicopterlinks.com/organizations/ Ferry pilots move aircraft from one location to another, such as from manufacturers to airports or commercial buyers. https://fullthrottleaviation.wordpress.com/2021/01/06/how-to-become-a-ferry-pilot-10- steps/; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyyXyKEgk0o Certified flight instructors teach aviation students how to fly different aircraft and often have the flexibility to work for themselves and create their own schedules. https://nafimentor.org/ Aerial firefighters participate in operations that attack fast-moving wildfires in difficult terrain. They are able to reach fires quickly to spread water or fire retardant and support firefighters on the ground. https://www.uafa.org/ Air tour pilots specialize in providing recreational scenic flights and aerial excursions for sightseers, offering passengers a unique perspective on specific geographical areas. They may work in exotic location near popular tourist destinations or scenic areas. https://careercenter.aams.org/career/air-tour-pilot Seaplane pilots operate aircraft capable of taking off and landing on water. They may transport passengers or cargo or may operate sightseeing tours, perform search and rescue or assist with wildlife or weather monitoring. https://seaplanepilotsassociation.org/ Horticulture pilots, sometimes called “crop dusters” fly small aircraft at low altitudes in order to apply fertilizer, herbicides and insecticides to agricultural fields. https://www.seedyourfuture.org/horticultural_pilot#:~:text=A%20horticultural%20pilot%2 0(sometimes%20called,fertilizer%20on%20fields%20of%20crops. Lima Flight provides links to third-party businesses, organizations and websites solely for your convenience. The inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement, sponsorship or recommendation of the linked business, organization or website. Lima Flight is not responsible for the content, products, services, practices or advice of any third-party businesses, organizations or websites. Use these links at your own risk. Any reliance on or interaction with linked businesses, organizations and websites is solely between you and the third party.