PRIVATE PILOT COURSE DESCRIPTION
In as little as 40 hours of flight training, you can become a private pilot. This will allow you to fly anywhere in the United States and is the first step of becoming a professional pilot! Being a private pilot has many advantages. You can take a loved one, children, friends, or anyone you want to any location. Imagine flying a spouse to Key West for dinner and back in time for the 11 o’clock news. All of this and more is possible with your private pilot license
General Requirements:
Candidates must be 16 years of age to solo and 17 years of age for a private pilot certificate at time of completion. Be able to read, speak, and understand the English language. Obtain at least a current third-class medical certificate. Pass the FAA written knowledge test as well as the FAA practical flight test.
Flight Requirements:
Minimum of 40 hours of flight that must include the following: Minimum of 20 hours dual with flight instructor, which includes:
- 3 hours of cross-country
- 3 hours of instrument flight
- 3 hours of night flying
Minimum of 10 hours solo flight, which includes:
- 5 hours solo cross-country, including
- 3 landings and take-offs at an airport with an operating control tower.
- The balance of 10 hours may be with a flight instructor or solo.
NOTE: 40 hours is the Federal Aviation Administration set minimum. Most pilots will require more flight time to prepare for the practical test. While the normal average is 70 hours, the IAE average has been between 55 and 60 hours.
