Pilot Training FAQ’s
Why should I do this?
Because it’s good to learn new things, to do difficult things. If you’re considering aviation, you see something special in it and should work to achieve it.
Can I do this?
If you’re considering it, I believe you can. You should believe it too. Most people are going to doubt themselves and never try. Learning is going to have moments of immediate satisfaction but expect a lot of it to be “type 2” fun, where the enjoyment comes later as you look back on how far you’ve come.
How much will it cost?
Nothing good in this world is cheap. The primary variable is how much effort and thought you put into it away from the airport. The minimum flight experience is 40 hours and the national average is 72. During this time you’re paying for both the aircraft and instructor, as well as ground instruction with the instructor. If you learn exceptionally fast and complete training in the minimum times you would spend about $9k, if you are average it would be about $15k.
What are the hourly requirements in becoming a pilot? | Federal Aviation Administration
How long will this take?
You should expect six months to a year. But the real answer is it depends on how often you fly and your goals. More frequent flying will result in fewer total hours of training. Fly frequently, “chair fly” when you can’t. The hand/eye skills will rust quickly if they aren’t kept in motion.
Do I need any “stuff”?
Yes. You’ll need a log-book (choose from paper and electronic), a fuel sampler, and a headset at the least. You will also need references. You can buy or download the FAA’s Airplane Flying Handbook, Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, and Airman’s Certification Standards for your certificate level. You will also need current information including Sectional Charts and Chart Supplements, which can be purchased or are available in Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) apps like Foreflight.
What is “unowned” insurance?
This is rental insurance. If you damage the plane it will cover you up to whatever limits you bought. Even if the aircraft owner doesn’t require you carry it, I recommend you do so. Be assured that if you damage the plane the owners insurance company will sue you to recover their costs. Unowned Insurance is not very expensive. Avemco is one option for insurance, you can see their rates here à Aircraft Renter's Insurance Rates & Coverage Options
How do you charge for instruction?
I bill for my time from the scheduled lesson start to the time I sign your log book. This reflects the reality that my time isn’t scalable and gives me clean data on how long it takes my students to achieve their ratings. You will pay for the aircraft rental directly to the owner, we’ll talk about the particulars of the aircraft you are learning in.
What is an “FAA Medical” and do I need one?
A health check from an FAA approved Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). If you are seeking a Private Pilot certificate and have not held a medical in the past, yes you need one. If you have held one in the recent past there are options – just ask and we can talk about it. If you are seeking a Sport Pilot certificate the answer will depend on your goals, again ask and we will talk about it.
What tests will I need to take?
The FAA requires that your CFI administers a pre-solo test and cover any missed answers before you can solo. For your certificate, you will take a Knowledge test at an FAA approved testing center and finally your Practical test with an FAA Designed Pilot Examiner (DPE).
How do I prepare for my Knowledge test?
I recommend you complete an on-line ground school as the best use of your time and money but am also happy to provide all the ground training you need if you prefer. I recommend the Rod Machado 40 hour Private Pilot ground school, his focus on the fundamentals of flying will serve you well. https://rodmachado.com?aff=964
I make a small commission if you use the above link.
What does “FAR” mean?
Welcome to a whole world of acronyms! “FAR” refers to the Federal Air Regulations. These are the rules that govern Civil Aviation. Part 61 of the rules cover our flight training, part 63 is about you as a pilot, and part 91 covers operation rules. There are a lot more sections, but those are what you’ll immediately care about.
I’m sure you have other questions, lets talk.