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Learning to fly can be an exciting and
personally rewarding adventure. While it does require a serious commitment
of time and money on the part of the student, almost anyone can become a
pilot. The perspective pilot needs to be at least 16 years old to become a
student pilot, 17 to receive a pilot certificate, and be in generally good
health with vision correctable to 20-40 using glasses or contacts.
The training process can be divided
into three phases. The first is the Pre-solo phase. In this phase the student
receives dual instruction in the basics of aircraft control, airport operations
(including takeoffs and landings), and FAA regulations. The second or Solo phase
consists of the student practicing on their own intermixed with dual instruction
in the local area. The final or Cross Country phase consists of both dual
instruction and solo practice of the procedures involved in flying from airport
to airport over long distances. Concurrent with these three phases the student
will complete the knowledge portion of the training either through a ground
school or home study course supplemented by the instructor.
A student applying for a pilot certificate must meet minimum knowledge and
experience requirements established by the FAA, as well as pass a written and
practical test given by FAA Designated Examiners. The minimum hour requirements
are 35 hours of total training if using a FAA approved flight school, or 40
hours if receiving independent instruction. The reality, however, is that the
average student needs much more training to achieve the necessary competency
level. The national average is 71 hours of total time (42 dual instruction &
29 solo practice).
The cost of achieving a pilot certificate (based on the national average) can
range from $8,000 to $10,000 depending on whether the student learns through an
independent instructor and flying club (least expensive) or through a flight
school (most expensive). The average training period is from 9 months to 1 year,
based on one 1.5 hour lesson per week. The length and cost of the training can
be reduced by more frequent training sessions. The type of plane chosen for
instruction will also effect the end cost. Miscellaneous fees for books,
equipment, and exams range from $600 to $1000. The links provided on the homepage
will enable the future pilot to determine the approximate cost of training,
depending on their personal preferences. I have tried to give the average
(REAL) costs as opposed to the "bait and switch" prices that many
schools and some independent instructors give out.
Please feel free to e-mail with any
questions. |
