No matter what your ultimate goal in aviation is, you will start by earning a Private Pilot’s license.
Beginning Private Pilots – Learning to Fly
Be at least 16 years old to solo
Be at least 17 years to take FAA practical test
Be able to read, speak, and write in English
Pass a physical exam administered by an Aviation Medical Examiner
Pass a written exam (at least 70%)
Complete a practical test with FAA examiner
Legal Minimum Required Instruction*
40 hours total flight time
20 hours of flight instruction
10 hours of solo flight
3 hours of cross country
3 hours of night instruction
3 hours of simulated instrument
3 hours of preparation for practical test
*National average is approximately 80 hours
3 steps to becoming a Private Pilot
Pre-Solo: Airplane handling, going to/from a practice area, take-offs and landings, radio communications (approx. 40 hours).
Cross-country: Navigation to/from distant airports. Advanced take-offs and landings, handling emergencies. (approx 20 hours).
Practical test: Preparation for the FAA practical test. (approx. 20 hours).
Once you have earned a Private license, you can work toward other certificates. A Commercial certificate allows you to be paid for your flying. A CFI (Certificated Flight Instructor) certificate enables you to teach others. An Airline Transport Pilot certificate (ATP) is what you’ll need if you want to fly a commercial airliner. You can also add a variety of ratings that will allow you to expand your activities to include piloting multi-engine airplanes and/or navigating using instruments through the fog and clouds.
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