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The Private Pilot Certificate is your first step into the world of aviation. As a private pilot you may fly an aircraft for pleasure, day or night, and may invite your friends along. If your interest in flying is limited to fair weather days, the private pilot certificate will meet your needs. If your goal is to become a professional pilot or to fly for business purposes, you will need to earn additional ratings and certificates.
Completion Time & Cost
Completion time of the private pilot certificate depends on the frequency of training. Students training 2-3 times per week can expect to spend up to four-five months in training. Students training 5-6 days per week can complete it in 4-6 weeks. The average cost can vary from $10,000 to $12,000, depending upon the length of time for completion of the course and your own ability to learn. We do our best to keep your costs to a minimum.
Certificate Requirements
In terms of flight hours, the FAA requires the student to log a minimum of 40 hours. However, most students require 45 – 60 hours to achieve the necessary proficiency. Keep these hour requirements in mind when selecting a training facility. Some schools base their course prices on FAA minimums, while we base the price on actual hours needed to complete the certificate. Flying is more complicated today than 35 years ago when the minimum 40 hours was set.
Eligibility Requirements
17 years of age (16 years of age to solo)
Read, speak, write and understand English
Pass an aviation medical exam
Pass a knowledge test (written exam)
Pass an oral and flight test