private pilot journey

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Becoming a Private Pilot – Step by Step

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The private pilot certificate is the one held by most active pilots. It lets you fly just about any aircraft (subject to appropriate ratings) for any noncommercial purpose, enables you to carry multiple passengers, and fly at night and in more types of airspace with no distance restrictions.

There are a lot of different ways you can become a private pilot, but these are the basic steps you will take:

Eligibility

To become a private pilot, you must be able to read, write, and understand English, and meet the minimum age requirements — you have to be at least 16 to solo as a student pilot (14 for gliders), and at least 17 to get your private pilot certificate (16 for gliders).

Free First Flight

If you haven't already, contact your local EAA chapter and take your free introductory flight , giving yourself a look at the freedom and fun of personal aviation.

Join a Chapter

In addition to helping arrange your first flight, not to mention the fun and camaraderie of spending time with people who love to fly, EAA chapters are great sources of advice and mentorship that can help you with every step of your journey toward becoming a pilot. You can find the chapters nearest you here .

Learning to fly costs money, but we can help. EAA offers scholarships to help with flight training, both directly and through your local EAA chapter. In addition, while most student pilots rent an airplane while training, in some cases buying or even building an airplane can be a cost-effective way to get started. One of the best ways you can get affordable access to an airplane is by joining — or even starting — a flying club .

Instructor or School?

Depending on your learning style, you have a general option of enrolling in a formal flight school or working one-on-one with an independent flight instructor. Once again, members of a nearby EAA chapter can help you learn what's available in your area and offer advice based on their experiences. The most important thing to remember is that you are in charge of your training, and it's very important that you have a healthy and trusting relationship with the person teaching you to fly.

Here's a list of things to consider when choosing a flight instructor .

Before you can fly solo as part of your training, you need a student pilot certificate from the FAA. Your instructor or flight school will guide you through the process of obtaining one.

Medical Exam

To be a private pilot, you must have what's called a medical certificate, which you get from an FAA-approved doctor after a physical examination. While the exam itself is straightforward, it is vital that you understand its scope before scheduling an appointment, as the denial of a medical certificate can be complicated and costly to rectify. If you have any questions about your health, any underlying conditions, or regular medications, EAA has resources that can help.

Studying and Practicing

Once the paperwork and medical exam are out of the way, it's time to start learning. You'll train in the airplane, of course, as your instructor has you take the controls on your very first lesson. You'll do a lot of studying on the ground as well, both with your flight instructor and on your own, as you hit the books and prepare for the written test. If you're training at a formal flight school, they will likely offer a ground school as well, where you'll work in a traditional classroom setting to learn the material. Many people prefer to self-study and learn at their own pace, reading books and taking online courses from companies like Sporty's. (Note: Sporty's online ground school course is free for student members of EAA.)

Written Test

Once you've finished your ground school, whether independently or as part of a class, it's time to take the written test. An endorsement from your instructor or the course provider is required, and the test must be taken by appointment at an FAA-approved testing facility. It's generally up to you to decide when you want to take the FAA written exam for your private pilot certificate, but our recommendation is that sooner is better. Here are some tips to help you understand what goes into passing the test.

This will be one of the most memorable days of your life, the first time you fly an airplane entirely by yourself. You're still a student pilot at this stage, but, with as few as eight to 10 hours of instruction, your instructor will send you up on your own. You'll stay close to your home airport, and usually do three takeoffs and landings while your instructor watches from the ground. This is a major milestone worth celebrating!

Additional Instruction

Once you've soloed, the rest of your training will be a mix of flying by yourself and with your instructor as you study things like navigation and cross-country flying, night flying, emergency procedures, practicing maneuvers, and more. The legal minimum amount of flying time (both solo and with your instructor) required is 35 hours in a formal flight school or 40 hours with an individual instructor, but the average time required is closer to 60 to 80 hours.

Final Exam(s)

You've passed the written test, built up the required flying time, and your instructor says you're ready. This is where it all comes together. On the day of your final exam, called a checkride, you'll actually take two tests with an FAA-approved examiner: first, an oral examination where you'll be quizzed extensively on your knowledge of everything from aircraft systems to rules and regulations. Once you pass that portion, then you'll get in the airplane and demonstrate what you've learned.

Once you earn your private pilot certificate, the opportunities are limitless. From lunchtime "$100 hamburger" trips to family vacations, volunteer humanitarian flights to a hop around the patch at sunset just because the sky looks so nice, becoming a pilot is one of the most rewarding things you'll ever accomplish.

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The Journey to Becoming a Private Pilot: A Step-by-Step Guide

admin March 13, 2024 Articles

Are you dreaming of taking to the skies, soaring above the clouds, and experiencing the thrill of flight? If becoming a private pilot is your aspiration, this article will help you turn that dream into a reality. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the entire process of becoming a private pilot with Airlink Flight School, from the first step to the triumphant moment when you earn your Private Pilot’s License (PPL).

Getting Started: The Introduction

Before you can take to the skies, you need to take the first step: getting acquainted with Airlink Flight School. You can visit our website at https://www.airlinkflightschool.com/ to learn more about us and the exciting world of aviation training we offer. You’ll find detailed information about our programs, instructors, and facilities, giving you a glimpse of what your journey will entail.

Ground School: Building Your Knowledge Base

Once you’ve made the decision to pursue your Private Pilot’s License, your journey begins with ground school. Ground school is the foundation upon which your aviation knowledge will be built. During this stage, you’ll dive into subjects such as aerodynamics, aviation regulations, navigation, meteorology, and aircraft systems.

Our experienced instructors will guide you through these essential topics, ensuring that you have a solid understanding of the theoretical aspects of flying. You’ll attend lectures, participate in discussions, and have access to study materials and resources that will prepare you for the FAA knowledge exam.

Flight Training: Taking to the Skies

With a solid knowledge base established in ground school, it’s time to take your first flight lesson. During your flight lessons, you’ll learn the practical skills necessary to become a proficient pilot. You’ll start with the basics, such as aircraft controls and maneuvers, and gradually progress to more advanced techniques.

FAA Knowledge Exam Preparation: Ace the Test

As you continue your flight training, you’ll simultaneously prepare for the FAA knowledge exam, a crucial step in obtaining your Private Pilot’s License. Flight instructors will provide you with comprehensive study materials and resources, as well as guidance on how to prepare effectively. You’ll cover topics such as airspace, navigation charts, flight planning, and regulations, ensuring that you’re well-prepared to pass the exam.

The Checkride: Prove Your Proficiency

After successfully passing the FAA knowledge exam, it’s time for the final step on your journey: the checkride. This is the moment when you demonstrate your skills and knowledge to an FAA designated examiner. The checkride consists of both a practical flight test and an oral exam.

Earning Your Private Pilot’s License: The Rewarding Conclusion

The moment you’ve been working toward has arrived. You’ve passed the checkride, and you’ve earned your Private Pilot’s License. Congratulations! This achievement marks the beginning of your aviation journey, allowing you to fly for personal pleasure and even share your love of aviation with friends and family.

What Comes With Your Private Pilot’s License

A Private Pilot License (PPL) certifies you to operate an aircraft for personal and recreational purposes under specific conditions and limitations. Here’s what a PPL allows you to do:

Fly Aircraft: With a PPL, you are authorized to act as the pilot-in-command (PIC) of an aircraft for non-commercial, private, and personal purposes. You can fly single-engine airplanes or, depending on your training, other specific types of aircraft if you’ve received additional endorsements or ratings.

Carry Passengers: You are allowed to carry passengers with your PPL, but you cannot charge them for your services. The primary purpose of your flight must be personal, and you cannot engage in any form of commercial aviation activities.

Fly Cross-Country: You can fly to destinations of your choice, including cross-country flights. This allows you to travel for leisure or business purposes by air.

Operate During Day and Night: A PPL typically allows you to fly during both daytime and nighttime hours, provided you have received the necessary training and endorsements for night flying.

Fly Visual Flight Rules (VFR): PPL holders operate under Visual Flight Rules, which means you must have sufficient visibility and stay clear of clouds while flying. You are not authorized for flying in adverse weather conditions that require Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) certification.

Use Airports and Airspace: PPL holders can take off and land at various airports, including public and private facilities, as long as they meet the airport’s requirements. You can also navigate through various types of airspace, such as Class B, C, D, E, and G, as long as you adhere to the relevant regulations and requirements.

Tow Gliders or Banners (with additional endorsements): Depending on the specific endorsements and additional training you receive, you may be allowed to tow gliders or banners, which are forms of non-commercial operations.

Participate in Charity Flights: Some PPL holders engage in charitable or humanitarian flights as long as no compensation is involved.

It’s important to note that a PPL does not authorize you to engage in commercial activities such as carrying passengers for hire, conducting aerial photography for compensation, or operating as a flight instructor. To perform these activities, you would need additional certifications and ratings, such as a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Flight Instructor Certificate, or other relevant qualifications.

Ready for Takeoff!

At Airlink Flight School we understand that becoming a private pilot is a challenging and rewarding journey. From ground school to flight training, FAA knowledge exam preparation to the checkride, that’s why our comprehensive program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to soar through the skies safely and confidently.

Contact us today to get started with your application process. We’re here to support your dreams of becoming a private pilot and look forward to helping you achieve your goals in the world of aviation. Your adventure begins with Airlink Flight School!

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L3Harris Flight Academy

How to Become a Private Pilot in the U.S.

Ever wanted to pursue a career in aviation? Or dreamed of being able to fly a plane, just for fun? Becoming a private pilot is one of the most sought-after aviation qualifications. For some, it acts as a route into an aviation career, and for others, becoming a private pilot creates a new hobby or new way to travel.

Whether you are looking to kickstart your career or challenge yourself to learn a new skill, you might be wondering, what do you need to become a private pilot? Our world-class PPL training program will provide all the theoretical knowledge and flying experience you need to complete your FAA practical exam and become a private pilot.

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Private Pilot License Course Overview

The quickest way to become a private pilot is to complete our PPL course which helps cadets obtain their Private Pilot License (PPL), qualifying them to fly an aircraft for private or personal purposes, day or night. Private pilots are trained to navigate small aircraft by themselves, and in essential emergency procedures, aircraft maneuvers, cross-country flying and navigation.

Cadets will be based at our Florida Flight School ; equipped with one of the largest aircraft fleets in the state including:

• Over 100 single and multi-engine aircraft
• 5 different advanced FTDs (Flight Training Devices)
• High-intensity runway lighting
• AWOS weather reporting system
• FAA control tower
• Pre and post-flight briefing areas
• A dispatch center

Find out more about what learning to become a private pilot at our Orlando Flight School is like by watching our video.

Before you can apply for our PPL training program , there are several steps you need to take. To support you with preparing to become a private pilot in the US, we have outlined the stages you will need to go through.

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Stage 1: Take a Trial Flight

Undertaking any form of aviation training is a large personal and financial investment, whether you are completing a PPL to become a private pilot or an Accelerated Airline Pilot Track to become a commercial pilot . If you have never had the chance to fly a plane before then booking a trial flight is a great way to see if pursuing a Private Pilot License and training to become a private pilot is right for you.

During a trial flight a Certified Flight Instructor can explain what is involved in becoming a private pilot and give you a flavor of life in the air.

Book a Discovery Flight

Stage 2: Check Your Eligibility

To start your journey towards becoming a private pilot you will need to meet eligibility criteria.

Minimum admission requirements for training to become a private pilot are as follows.

• At least 17 years old in order to receive your Private Pilot Certificate
• Proficient in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English
• Able to obtain an FAA medical certificate

To learn more about additional requirements for becoming a private pilot, and to ask any questions you have about our eligibility criteria, contact admissions or request information today.

How to apply

Stage 3: Obtain Your Medical Certificate

Alongside meeting the necessary eligibility criteria, every cadet looking to become a private pilot will need to obtain a Third-Class FAA-Approved Medical Certificate in order to fly in an aircraft unaccompanied.

This medical certificate is a requirement to help ensure the safety of all pilots while up in the air during their PPL training.

Obtaining your medical certificate is similar to a routine physical check-up, with a greater focus on mental and neurological health as well as vision and hearing.

All third-class medical certificates are valid for 5 years for individuals under 40 years old, and 2 years for those over 40.

If you are planning on applying to continue your aviation career after becoming a private pilot, you may need to meet other requirements. Learn more about the qualifications and certificates needed to become a pilot in the U.S.

Qualifications to become a pilot

Stage 4: Research PPL Flight Schools

Finding the right school for you to complete your private pilot training is important.

At the L3Harris Flight School, you will have everything you need to become a successful private pilot. Cadets have the opportunity to train in our Flight Training Devices and have access to one of the largest aircraft fleets in the state. With over 300 days of excellent flying weather each year thanks to our location in sunny central Florida, our cadets have more time to fly than anywhere else, meaning there is no better place to complete private pilot training.

We make every effort to ensure all our students receive the best quality private pilot training in state-of-the art facilities.

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Stage 5: Complete Ground School Training

When thinking about what you need to become a private pilot, there are two types of essential training that will prepare you. Every student training to become a private pilot will need to attend both ground school and flight school training.

Ground school takes place in a traditional classroom setting and is designed to introduce cadets to the theoretical concepts of flying and aviation. The key concepts of aviation covered by ground school include topics such as:

• Federal Aviation Regulations
• Radio communication protocols
• Aerodynamics and other concepts

When completing ground school, cadets will need to take the FAA Written Pilot Exam in order to progress with becoming a private pilot. Once this exam has been completed, cadets will be ready for their FAA Practical Exam to gain their Private Pilot License .

Programs and Courses

Stage 6: Complete Flight School Training

The next step towards earning your  Private Pilot License  is to complete flight school training, and importantly, learn how to fly an aircraft.

One of the most integral parts of preparing to become a pilot, flight school training encompasses all of the procedures before, during and after a flight including:

• Flight preparations
• Emergency protocols
• Take-off and landing procedures

PPL students will be trained in one of our 5 FTDs and in our fleet of approx 100 single and multi-engine aircraft to prepare for life in the air.

Stage 7: Complete your FAA practical exam

Your practical exam, also often called a ‘Checkride’ is the final requirement for obtaining your Private Pilot License and becoming a private pilot.

In order to complete your ‘Checkride’ and become a private pilot in the U.S., students will also need to have completed:

• 20 hours of flight time with an Instructor
• 10 hours of solo flight time
• 5 hours of solo cross country flying and one cross-country flight of over 150 nautical miles with landings at 3 different airports
• 3 hours of night flying
• 10 take-offs
• 3 hours of basic instrument training
• Gain an Instructor endorsement

The practical exam is designed to test your theoretical and practical knowledge of aircraft and flying. Cadets will take two 1.5 hour exams, one flight exam and one oral exam, each conducted by an FAA approved inspector.

Upon passing the FAA practical exam, you will be a certified private pilot!

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What’s Next After Becoming a Private Pilot?

Once you have obtained your Private Pilot License you may find that you have discovered a love for flying and want to undertake further training.

After becoming a private pilot, cadets can add ratings to their certification to build up their flying qualifications, such as an Instrument Rating for flying at night or in adverse weather.

Some private pilots also go on to a career in commercial aviation and undertake a commercial pilot training program  to build up the qualifications and experience needed for a commercial career.

Take a look at our extensive range of individual pilot training courses and learn what could come next for you after becoming a private pilot.

Whether you decide to build on your qualifications after obtaining your PPL or simply use your license for recreational flying, becoming a private pilot opens a whole host of opportunities and experiences.

If you have any questions about becoming a private pilot in the US, check out our Private Pilot License course or get in touch with us today.

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Exploring the Private Pilot License: Rights, Criteria, and Qualification

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A Private Pilot License (PPL) is the most coveted pilot certification, and for good reason! It’s officially known as a Private Pilot Certificate in the United States and your ticket to take to the skies. Like a driver’s car license, a PPL allows you to fly an aircraft legally. As a private pilot, you’ll be trained to navigate small aircraft solo, mastering aircraft maneuvers, navigation, emergency procedures, and cross-country flight planning. Whether in it for the thrill of flying or as a stepping stone to becoming an airline pilot, a private pilot certification is the first significant milestone on your aviation journey.

What Can I Do With a Private Pilot License?

With a private pilot certificate, the skies are your playground! You’ll have access to fly in and out of all civil airports, opening up a world of possibilities. As a licensed pilot, you can indulge in activities like flying to nearby airports for lunch, exploring cross-country routes, or circumnavigating the globe without boarding a commercial airliner. Plus, you’ll be free to share your passion with friends and family, take them on thrilling rides, hone your skills with practice maneuvers, or get involved in inspiring programs that introduce others to the joy of flying.

What Types of Aircraft Can I Operate Using a Private Pilot License?

As a private pilot, you’ll be free to fly any aircraft you’re appropriately rated, allowing you to explore different types of planes. “Appropriately rated” means you’ve completed training in a specific category (like airplane or helicopter) and class rating (such as single-engine land). 

With a Private Pilot Certificate rated for “airplane, single-engine land,” you can act as pilot-in-command (PIC) in any single-engine land airplane, like a Piper Archer, even if trained in a Cessna 172. 

As PIC, you’ll have the final authority and responsibility for the flight’s safety and operation. Some aircraft may require additional endorsements, like tailwheel or high-performance authorization, to act as PIC, but the possibilities are endless!

Is It Permissible to Earn Money from Flying with a Private Pilot Certificate?

While holding a Private Pilot Certificate offers many privileges, there are significant limitations to remember. As a private pilot, you may not act as pilot-in-command (PIC) of an airplane for compensation or hire, nor carry passengers or property for compensation or hire. 

However, you can act as PIC and receive a pro-rata share of the operating expenses (such as fuel, oil, airport fees, and rental fees) from others onboard, as long as you don’t pay less than your share. This means you can share the costs with fellow passengers but can’t profit from flying them. Always remember to prioritize safety and adhere to these limitations.

What about charity events?

With a private pilot certificate, the possibilities are endless! You can soar to new heights as pilot-in-command of an aircraft towing a glider, make a difference by flying for charity, non-profit, or community events, or even assist in search and location operations. Plus, you can be reimbursed for fuel, oil, airport expenses, and rental fees, making your passion for flying fulfilling and sustainable. Whether you’re supporting a good cause or exploring new adventures, your private pilot certificate is critical to making a meaningful impact.

Any other opportunities?

As a private pilot certificate holder with at least 200 hours and a passion for sales, you can soar to new career heights! You can act as pilot-in-command while demonstrating aircraft to customers, showcasing your expertise, and building trust with potential buyers. Plus, you may even have the opportunity to act as a test pilot (with certain limitations), putting your skills to the test and pushing the boundaries of innovation. With your private pilot certificate, the sky’s the limit for your aviation career!

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Private Pilot License?

Earning a private pilot certificate is a journey, and the timeline varies depending on several factors, including weather, availability, finances, and flying frequency. 

You can soar to new heights in just three months with an intensive program! However, if your schedule only allows occasional flights, achieving your goal may take around two years. Either way, our flexible training programs adapt to your pace, ensuring you reach your aviation dreams when the time is right.

What Criteria Must Be Met to Obtain a Private Pilot Certificate?

To receive a private pilot certificate, candidates undergo a comprehensive evaluation by an FAA examiner consisting of the following:

• Oral portion: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of aviation principles and regulations.
• Flight portion: Showcase flying skills and proficiency in a practical test.

Before applying, candidates must:

• Complete a written knowledge exam: Pass a written test to demonstrate an understanding of aviation concepts.
• Meet aeronautical experience requirements: Accumulate required flight hours and experience under the guidance of a certified instructor.

Additionally, candidates must:

• Be at least 17 years old: Meet the minimum age requirement on the practical test date.
• Be proficient in English: Read, speak, write, and understand English to communicate effectively.

For the complete list of eligibility requirements, refer to 14 CFR §61.103 .

Becoming a private pilot requires dedication and hard work, but you can unlock the skies and explore new horizons with the proper training and guidance. Remember to stay informed about the latest requirements and regulations to ensure a smooth journey to earning your private pilot certificate.

Private Pilot License Requirements

To earn your private pilot certificate, follow these crucial steps:

• Be at least 17: Meet the minimum age requirement to start your aviation journey.
• Be proficient in English: Read, speak, write, and understand English to ensure clear communication.
• Hold a valid pilot certificate: Possess a U.S. student pilot, sport pilot, or recreational pilot certificate as a prerequisite.
• Receive expert training: Get flight training and a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor.
• Meet aeronautical experience requirements: Accumulate the necessary flight hours and experience for your desired aircraft rating.
• Pass the practical test: Demonstrate your flying skills and knowledge to earn your private pilot certificate.

For a comprehensive list of requirements, refer to 14 CFR §61.103 .

Aeronautical Experience

To attain your private pilot license, federal regulations stipulate a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, comprising 20 hours of instruction from an authorized instructor and 10 hours of solo flight. The training curriculum should encompass:

3 hours of cross-country flight training

3 hours of night flight training, involving:

•  A cross-country flight exceeding 100 nautical miles
• 10 takeoffs and landings, each to a full stop, within the airport traffic pattern
• 3 hours of instrument training, emphasizing instrument-only control and maneuvering
• 3 hours of instruction with an authorized instructor within the preceding 2 calendar months before the test date

10 hours of solo flight, including:

• 5 hours of solo cross-country flight
• One solo cross-country flight covering 150 nautical miles, with full-stop landings at three different points and a leg of more than 50 nautical miles between takeoff and landing
• Three takeoffs and landings to a full stop (each involving traffic pattern flight) at an airport with an operational control tower

Total Flight Time Requirements:

• Minimum of 40 Hours
• Cross-Country Flight Time: 3 Hours
• Night Flight Time: 3 Hours
• Instrument Training: 3 Hours
• Training with Authorized Instructor: 3 Hours
• Solo Flight Time: 10 Hours

Undergo the FAA Practical Test for the Private Pilot License

Once you’ve completed your flight training, you’re ready to take on the FAA Practical Exam, also known as a check-ride. A designated FAA examiner administers this crucial step, which includes a comprehensive oral and flight exam. You’ll move on to the flight exam if you ace the oral exam. Upon completing both, the examiner will guide you through the FAA paperwork and present you with a temporary private pilot certificate, valid until your official FAA certificate arrives.

To fully exercise your private pilot license, you must hold a third-class medical certificate, obtainable through an aeromedical examiner (AME). Don’t wait – secure your medical certificate early in training, as it’s a prerequisite for solo flying. Remember to renew your certificate periodically: every 60 months if you’re under 40, and every 24 months if you’re over 40.

Ready to Earn Your Private Pilot License?

Take the first step towards becoming a certified private pilot with our expert training programs. Our flight school offers comprehensive courses designed to meet all FAA requirements and help you soar to new heights.

Please let us know if you have any further questions about the Private Pilot License

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How to Get a Private Pilot License – Step-by-Step

What is a Private Pilot?

Getting your private pilot license, private pilot license requirements, private pilot license training, ground school, flight school, private pilot license tests, aeronautical knowledge test, practical test (checkride).

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Private Pilot License Cost

Airplane news update, final thoughts.

The private pilot license, or PPL, reigned supreme among all types of pilot licenses for a long time.

As a private pilot, you can fly virtually any aircraft, operate in visual flight rules (VFR) conditions, and add additional ratings such as the multiengine or instrument ratings.

Also, you don’t need hundreds of flight hours to complete your training. In fact, it could take you only a few weeks to get the license.

So, what does it take to become a private pilot?

First, you must be eligible.

But let’s define the term before going further.

A private pilot is an individual that holds a private pilot license (or certificate).

A private pilot license is an FAA airman certificate issued to an applicant after passing the applicable knowledge and practical tests. It allows the holder to fly for private purposes, which with very few exceptions, precludes receiving compensation.

A private pilot may exercise the privileges consistent with the license.

Now that’s out of the way, let’s start with the requirements.

The steps first, though.

Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Pilot

Here’s how you become a private pilot:

• Ensure you fulfill the eligibility requirements
• Obtain your medical certificate (third-class, at a minimum)
• Join a pilot training program or find a flight instructor
• Complete your ground school or home-study course
• Pass your private pilot written test
• Get through your flight training and earn the required endorsements
• Pass your private pilot checkride

Let’s tackle the first step.

The FAA requires applicants for airmen certificates to be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language .

You also need to be at least 17 years old (or 16 to fly gliders or balloons) to get a private pilot license.

Moreover, you must meet the following requirements:

• Hold either a student, sport, or recreational pilot certificate.
• Have at least a third-class medical certificate.
• Receive proper ground instruction, flight training, and logbook endorsements.
• Pass aeronautical knowledge and practical tests.

The easiest route to becoming a private pilot starts with getting a student pilot certificate , which involves little besides completing an online application. Alternatively, having a sport or recreational pilot license makes training easier, and likely faster, compared to a first-time pilot.

Getting your medical certificate requires yet another online application on MedXPress. After scheduling an appointment, an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) issues the medical certificate after you pass a physical. The medical certificates include three classes: First, second, and third. Private pilots must meet the required standards for a third-class medical , at a minimum.

What’s next?

It’s time to hit the ground running.

Becoming a private pilot entails undergoing ground and flight school . You can do both simultaneously or opt to complete your ground school before starting your flight training.

The PPL ground training introduces you to key aviation concepts. It helps you build your aeronautical knowledge in areas such as aerodynamics, Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), and radio communication procedures.

Private Pilot Made Easy

You may choose between a home-study course or instructor lessons to complete your ground school.

But you should know that pilot schools come in two flavors, each following a different part of the FARs.

Part 61 schools have no minimum “ground” hours, while Part 141 schools must provide at least 35 hours of ground school.

In either case, enrolling in an online course is a good idea.

While many options exist, the virtual private pilot ground school on Pilotinstitute.com offers a course that helped over 2,000 students ace their knowledge exams. At a much lower price point than that of a formal ground course, mind you.

As a private pilot in training, you learn how to fly aircraft, which involves more than handling the control wheel. Your flight training encompasses preflight preparation, navigation, and emergency procedures among several other areas of aircraft operations.

You learn the ropes from a flight instructor through flight lessons, each consisting of three segments:

• Preflight briefing: Discussing what you’re going to do in the aircraft.
• Flight training session: Doing what you discussed in the briefing.
• Postflight briefing: Evaluating your performance.

How many hours does it take to become a private pilot?

Although insignificant, the Part 61 vs Part 141 difference comes into play here. Part 61 schools’ minimum is 40 hours, while Part 141 schools have it at 35. Both figures must include 20 hours of flight training with an instructor as well as other minimum hours of solo, cross-country, instrument and night flight time.

Gaining the required flight proficiency takes most pilots 60 to 75 hours, though. Among other factors, your aptitude, flight frequency, pilot school, and flight instructor influence the number of flight hours.

Typically, it takes 3 months to complete a private pilot course. However, accelerated courses last only a handful of weeks.

Once your training is complete, and your instructor deems you ready, you must pass tests to get your license.

Earning your private pilot license requires passing both knowledge and flight tests.

Daily Free Pilot Study Tips

Interestingly, you may sit for the private pilot knowledge test at 15 years old . However, you must present an authorization to take the test.

What’s an authorization?

It’s proof that you’re ready for the test, which could be a certificate of graduation, a written statement, or a logbook endorsement.

Here’s what you need to know about the knowledge test:

• It consists of 60 multiple-choice questions.
• Each question has 3 possible answers.
• It’s 2 and half hours.
• The passing score is 70%.
• Retesting is possible after getting an instructor endorsement.
• It’s valid for two years.

Many pilots prefer to pass the knowledge test before they begin flight training. That’s often a good call since it allows you to fully focus on the flying.

Passing your private pilot practical test , commonly known as checkride, is the final step on your path to becoming a private pilot.

The checkride comes after completing your pilot training, passing your knowledge test, and getting an instructor endorsement.

What’s the deal with the instructor endorsement?

It attests to meeting the required practical test standards. Your instructor issues the endorsement, but only after you demonstrate flight proficiency in a 3-hour preparatory flight within two months of the test.

What’s the practical test like?

• It’s conducted by an FAA inspector or Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE).
• It consists of an oral and a flight, each lasting an average of 1.5 hours.
• Your examiner issues a temporary pilot certificate upon passing.
• You receive a permanent certificate from the FAA after reviewing your qualifications.

Congratulations, you got your PPL, but what does it allow you to do exactly?

Private Pilot License Privileges & Limitations

The FARs state private pilot privileges and limitations in detail, but here’s a roundup, you may:

• Pilot any aircraft you’re qualified for, at night, and in VFR.
• Fly IFR after getting an instrument rating (IR).
• Carry passengers and property, but not for compensation or hire.
• Share operating expenses with passengers on a pro rata basis.
• Participate in charitable flights and search and rescue operations.
• Demonstrate, as a salesperson, aircraft to prospective buyers.

The main restriction of the private pilot license is that you can’t fly for commercial purposes. Simply put, it’s tough to make money with a PPL.

Speaking of money, becoming a pilot doesn’t come for free.

The cost of becoming a private pilot varies, but the average is around 10,000 dollars.

It goes up or down by a few grand depending on several factors, chief among which is the airplane rental rate. Case in point, you can rent an old Cessna for less than a hundred bucks, while a new Diamond DA40 Star runs at closer to $200 an hour.

Apart from training costs, you also have to pay certain fees:

• $75 to $200 for the medical certificate
• $140 to $165 for the knowledge test

What about the checkride?

It costs $350 to $550 with a DPE, while it’s free of charge with an FAA inspector. The FAA charges nothing for issuing the license.

You’d be wise to budget $500 to $1000 for aviation books, study supplies, and pilot headsets among other potential expenses.

Private pilots make up a huge segment of active airmen in the United States.

Don’t be fooled by its popularity, though, getting your private pilot license isn’t easy. It involves braving strenuous training, passing rigorous tests, and paying a large sum of money.

Certainly, it takes a significant investment of time, effort, and cash.

You’d be smart to contemplate before starting your private pilot course. You need to be highly motivated to complete it.

Wondering how to get the license in the shortest time?

It starts with doing thorough research, finding a good pilot school, and picking a good flight instructor. Thereafter, you need to study, practice, and fly as often as possible.

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How Long Does it Take to Get a Private Pilot’s License?

Flying has been a centuries-long sought after skill, and we live in such a unique time to be able to become pilots ourselves. For so long the idea of manned flight was just a dream, but now it is a reality and accessible to many. Not only is aviation a viable career opportunity with an increasingly attractive compensation range, it is also an amazing hobby for hundreds of thousands of people across the US.

Learning to fly an airplane is no small feat, though, and involves much training and financial investment to become licensed to fly. One of the most common questions asked before someone jumps into the world of aviation is how long does it take to get your private pilot’s license?

Earning your private pilot’s license requires 40 logged hours of flight training but on average takes closer to 60-70 flight hours. This training usually takes about 6-12 months if you take a flight lesson once every 1-2 weeks.

These numbers are just averages but based on my own experiences and other pilots I know, this seems to be a consistent estimate as to what it takes to learn to fly. The concept of “learning to fly” is a little loose in definition so let’s get into some more detail about what that actually looks like to become a private pilot including how your training is structured, what it will cost, and what you can do from there.

Also, for those of you starting your journey as a pilot, I put together a mini-library of 23 different resources and answers that I wish I could have consumed before I started flying or early in my training. You can grab that (for free) here:

Part 61 vs. 141 Schools

Requirements for your private pilot’s license differ based on whether you are training under a Part 61 or 141 flight school. In short, Part 141 schools have a more structured training regimen and must pass certain benchmarks with their student volume and pass rates, and as a result are able to graduate students in fewer flight hours.

Specific to the private pilot’s license, here are the Part 61 vs. 141 requirements:

For more on this topic, see our article on Part 61 vs. 141 Flight Schools – Requirements and Differences.

The Start of Training: Average Time Until Your First Solo Flight

You will be a student pilot until you take and pass your check ride, at which point you will be a certified private pilot. As a student pilot you are not allowed to carry passengers without an instructor, but fairly early on in your training your instructor will certify you to fly by yourself.

This solo flight usually happens at around 15-20 hours into your training but will vary from student to student. It is a truly amazing moment to look around the airplane and realize that no one is flying the airplane but you (If you’re about to solo, make sure to read our 9 Foolproof Tips for Your First Airplane Solo ). At that flight, you’ve earned your wings and enter a unique club (as proof, the tradition is even to cut your shirt tail off when you land – you’re in!).

After that point, about half of your training will be done with the instructor, and half will be completed solo. There are certain missions (such as a cross country, night cross country, solo cross country) that you will need to accomplish and have in your logbook before you can qualify to take your final check ride and be a certified private pilot.

So technically you will “learn to fly” an airplane within the first few hours of your training, and even fly by yourself shortly thereafter. However you won’t be able to carry other passengers quite yet.

Second Half of Training: From Solo Flight to Check Ride

Once you solo you’ll probably have another 20-35 flight hours or so of training to go, but it will largely depend on how quickly you progress through the concepts and material.

Flight lessons usually last between 1-3 hours (most on the lower end of that unless you’re doing some cross country work), and count on having an hour on both sides of that for pre and post-flight briefings with your instructor. For some people that means they will only be able to do it on the weekends, so flying once per week is pretty average if you are doing this on the side.

The more often you fly the less you will have to repeat lessons and concepts and will make your training more efficient. If you are doing a full-time training program you can probably complete your entire license in a matter of weeks.

Training Curriculum

When you first start out, you will be learning the basics of flight: turns, climbs, descents, and power adjustments. All other flight maneuvers and tasks use these four principles in some combination or another.

You’ll then progress into more complex iterations of those four principles, such as steep turns, turns about a point, S-turns, and stall recovery. That will give you a good base of maneuvers to then start practicing different types of takeoffs and landings.

From there you will conduct a solo flight, after which point you start to get into more cross-county type flying which involves learning about navigation, radio skills, night flight, emergency procedures, and more. The whole curriculum just slowly builds on itself until you are a well-rounded student pilot and are ready for your FAA check ride.

At some point in your training (I preferred to do this first with any rating I have done) you will need to take your written test. Some flight schools will hold an intensive ground school weekend where it’s three eight hour days, covering all of the base knowledge you’ll need to pass your written test.

Everyone is different but I have done this type of program for my private, instrument, and commercial licenses and always found it far superior than self-study alone. You’ll need an instructor’s endorsement that you are ready to take the written test anyways, and these in-person ground schools will usually provide that endorsement at the end.

If you are studying remotely and don’t have access to a ground school such as this, I highly recommend King Schools curriculum. John and Martha have been teaching for a very long time, and while some might find their video material to be a bit corny, the material and teaching methods are sound and they have graduated a lot of pilots through their courses over the year. I did this for my commercial written (in addition to the intensive ground school) and got an A on my written test. It’s a great way to study remotely.

At the end of your training you will have your check ride with an FAA examiner that will comprise of an oral exam (usually 1-2 hours in length) followed by a flight test (also 1-2 hours in length). It’s definitely a stressful afternoon but it’s the only way to get your license. Study enough and you will be fine.

The good news is that you know exactly what they need to cover and test you on before you ever take the check ride, and it’s called the ACS or Airman Certification Standards. You can download this online for free (or there are supplement books and study guides based on the ACS that are very affordable and available on Amazon) and be fully prepared when you take your check ride. Again, on average pilots will have 60-70 flight hours before reaching this point but you technically only need 40 as long as you have achieved the required flight experience within that 40 hours (such as certain cross country time, night flying, etc.).

Average Cost of Getting Your Pilot’s License

Between the airplane rental, instructor fees, testing fees, and gear, the private pilot’s license costs on average about $10,000 to obtain. We wrote a pretty thorough post on “How much does it cost to get a private pilot’s license?” so be sure to give that a read if you want the more detailed breakdown.

A sport pilot’s license which has many limitations (such as airplane size and horsepower, flight into instrument conditions, and nighttime flying) is more affordable and is on average about $5,000 to obtain. You’ll need only half the required hours vs. the private pilot’s license but again that is because the sport license is more limited in nature and so the training does not cover as much (since you won’t be allowed to do as much).

Ways to Decrease Time and Cost of Getting Your Pilot’s License

We cover this in more detail in this post but here is a snapshot of ways you can try to reduce the cost of the pilot’s license:

• Fly regularly so you don’t have to repeat lessons (this is the biggest thing you can do… fly often)
• Buy flight hours in bulk to save
• Choose a smaller or less advanced airplane to train in, as the rate will be lower
• Take a ground school intensive or weekend course to speed up training and finish your written test
• Self-study using the ACS, ACS study guides, and YouTube (there is a lot of amazing, free, content on YouTube nowadays)
• Go rural – flight training will cost less in less congested areas but this does have its downsides like not learning how to fly in busy airspace or getting comfortable with air traffic control
• Borrow gear before you buy it – don’t buy a headset at first and that can save you up to $1,000 or more (although I strongly encourage you to invest in the best headset you can buy like the Bose A20 or Lightspeed Zulu).

Beyond the Private Pilot’s License

Once you become a private pilot, there are several other ratings and licenses you can get that will be beneficial (if not required) for what you want to do in aviation (even if it’s just a hobby). Here is a quick overview:

Instrument rating

If you want to fly into limited visibility (like clouds, fog, or the like) you will need your instrument rating. This is a really fun and challenging rating where you spend 40 additional flight hours with a view-limiting device so that you can’t actually see outside the airplane and have to rely solely on your instruments.

It’s a pretty exhausting rating but you will come out of it a much safer, well-rounded pilot. This averages about another $10,000 in training costs but again can be lowered by training more often, buying bulk hours, and self-studying as much as you can to avoid repeat lessons.

Commercial Rating

If you want to be paid to fly, you’ll need a commercial rating. This is a relatively easy rating compared to the private and instrument, and is largely just based on demonstrating new flight maneuvers that you didn’t learn as part of your private training. The commercial license is broken out into single and multi-engine licenses and so you’ll need a commercial for whichever class of airplane (single land, single engine sea, multi-engine land, or multi-engine sea) you plan to be paid to fly.

For more reading, see our post on how long it takes to earn you commercial rating.

Multi-Engine Rating

This is pretty straightforward – learn to fly airplanes with more than one engine! This is probably one of the easier ratings as pretty much the entire training regimen is based on what to do if one of the engine quits in any phase of the flight (takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, approach, and landing). This can be done in a matter of a few flight hours and is not overly expensive to achieve (about $3,000 on average).

Certified Flight Instructor

Want to teach? You’ll need your CFI. This is segmented into different types of flight instructor ratings, such as your basic CFI, CFII (instrument instructor), MEI (multi-engine instructor), and others. This is a pretty hard rating to get as you not only have to understand the material thoroughly, but you have to learn how to teach it.

You don’t just need to be able to perform the maneuvers from the co-pilot’s seat, you have to be able to coach students on what they are doing wrong and efficiently coach them into doing it correctly. This can be one of the most rewarding things you ever do in aviation though and can be an amazing way to give back to the flying community while also getting paid.

Airline Transport Pilot

At 1,500 hours you can qualify to get your airline transport pilot license. This isn’t all that hard but the minimum hour requirement can take a while for new pilots to achieve. The check ride mostly consists of flight maneuvers that have very little tolerances for error on altitude deviations.

The concept here is to have total mastery over the aircraft in all flight maneuvers and procedures. As such, the license is split out into single engine ATP and multi-engine ATP, similar to the commercial rating. Most airlines will require you to have your ATP or at least be eligible for your ATP upon hire.

If you aren’t planning on flying professionally, the ATP is nothing more than a cool trophy on the wall, but some choose to get it for that reason alone.

For more reading on this, see our article comparing private pilot, commercial pilot, and ATP certificates.

Seaplane Rating

This is the most fun 4.5 flight hours I have in my entire logbook. Learning to land on water is unlike any other flight experience I’ve ever had. This is a pretty easy rating to get and arguably the shortest from a training hours perspective. Plus, it’s loads of fun. I got my seaplane rating in Alaska and the experience was a once in a lifetime thing. Highly recommend!

In case you missed it above, you can grab my Ultimate Starter Guide to Your Aviation Journey below. It’s packed with 23 different resources I wish I could’ve consumed before or early into my flight training. It’s totally free and jam-packed with actionable, practical content for you as a new aviator or someone exploring their license.

That was a little more expansive than just how long it takes to learn to fly, but hopefully this gave you a realistic overview of what training would look like to become a private pilot, as well as what your aviation pursuits might look like after that point. It’s been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done and has changed my perspective on life.

I love the quote from Leonardo Di Vinci in the year 1500 (400 years before manned flight was achieved!) telling other people why his flying inventions and pursuits were legitimate: “Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.”

Blue skies!

Charlie Gasmire

Charlie Gasmire is a commercially licensed pilot and aircraft owner and has been flying since 2004. He holds both single and multi-engine commercial certificates, as well as a private single engine seaplane certificate, instrument rating, and tailwheel endorsement. He owns a 1975 Cessna 182P and shares the lessons learned both on AirplaneAcademy.com and his YouTube channel with tens of thousands of subscribers and millions of views. You can read more about Charlie’s story here.

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29 September 2023   |  Updated on February 05, 2024

The idea of soaring through the skies, watching the world unfurl beneath you, is a dream harbored by many. But is it worth the time, effort, and financial investment to obtain a private pilot’s license? At first glance, the vast skies, the sense of freedom, and the achievement of piloting an aircraft solo might seem like sufficient reasons.

However, like any endeavor, the journey to becoming a private pilot comes with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s delve deep and weigh whether the experience truly elevates life’s adventure.

What is a Private Pilot’s License?

Before we get deep into all the nitty-gritty, let’s start with the basics. Think of a Private Pilot’s License (often abbreviated as PPL) as your golden ticket to the skies. It’s like your driver’s license, but instead of allowing you to hit the road with your car, it grants you permission to cruise the skies in a plane. Cool, right?

With a PPL in your pocket, you can fly for fun, travel to new places, or take your friends and family on aerial adventures. However, there’s a catch: you can’t get paid to fly passengers or cargo . For that, you’d need different types of pilot licenses. But hey, for most of us dreaming about freedom in the skies, the PPL is a perfect starting point.

So, in a nutshell, a Private Pilot’s License is your personal pass to explore the skies, on your own terms, and share the joy of flying with your loved ones. It’s all about the adventure and the breathtaking views up there! Ready to dive deeper? Let’s go!

1. Freedom to Explore

Imagine a world where you can wake up on a crisp Saturday morning, look outside, and say, “I feel like going somewhere amazing today.” Well, with a Private Pilot’s License (PPL), that world becomes your reality.

When you hold a PPL, you have the keys to your own adventure . You can hop into your small aircraft, taxi down the runway, and take off to explore places you’ve never been before. Whether it’s a remote airstrip nestled in the mountains or a charming little airport on an island, the possibilities are endless.

Small white single engine airplane takes off from a municipal airfield in rural Minnesota

2. Impress Your Friends and Family

Let’s be honest – how many people do you know who can fly a plane? Being a pilot is undeniably cool , and you’ll have some fantastic stories to share at parties.

Picture this: You walk into a room, and the conversation naturally steers toward your interests and hobbies. As you casually mention that you’re a licensed pilot, there’s an undeniable spark of awe and admiration in the eyes of your friends and family. Being a pilot is not just a skill; it’s a conversation starter, an icebreaker, and a source of endless fascination for those around you.

3. Expand Your Horizons

Getting your Private Pilot’s License is about broadening your horizons in ways you might never have imagined. It’s like unlocking a new dimension in your life . The world suddenly becomes smaller, more accessible, and full of exciting possibilities. Flying introduces you to a new set of skills, a different way of thinking, and a unique perspective on the world.

As a pilot, you’ll continually learn and grow. Every flight is a chance to refine your aeronautical knowledge, improve your decision-making skills, and enhance your problem-solving abilities. The challenges you’ll face in the cockpit will push you to become a better version of yourself.

Back view from the inside of the plane, couple in aviation headsets is ready to fly

4. Join an Exclusive Club

Becoming a pilot grants you access to an exclusive and tightly-knit club that’s unlike any other. It’s a community of individuals who share your passion for aviation and adventure , and being part of this club brings with it a unique set of advantages.

First and foremost, you’ll find camaraderie among fellow aviators. These are people who understand the thrill of soaring through the skies and the satisfaction of mastering the art of flight. The friendships you build within the aviation community can be some of the most enduring and enriching relationships of your life.

But it’s not just about making friends; it’s also about networking. In the aviation world, connections matter. You might meet seasoned pilots who can offer guidance, mentorship, or even job opportunities if you decide to pursue a career in aviation. Your fellow aviators can also be a valuable source of advice and support as you navigate your journey in the skies.

5. Brain Boost

Learning to pilot an aircraft isn’t just about the physical act of flying; it’s also a mental workout that can significantly boost your cognitive abilities . Flying requires a unique blend of skills, including analytical thinking, problem-solving, coordination, and quick decision-making.

From the moment you step into the cockpit, your brain is in overdrive. You’ll be processing information from instruments, communicating with air traffic control, and making split-second decisions in constantly changing conditions. This mental challenge can improve your ability to focus, stay calm under pressure, and adapt to new situations – skills that can benefit you both in and out of the cockpit.

The same goes for starting your flight training with a private pilot ground school. It will challenge you to discover new areas of aviation, and the world of physics, aerodynamics, airlaw and more.

6. Conquer Fears

Earning a Private Pilot’s License is a transformative experience that empowers you to conquer any fears you might have had about flying. If the thought of being up in an aircraft at high altitudes or facing turbulence has ever made you anxious, becoming a pilot is your ticket to overcoming those concerns.

As you embark on your pilot training journey, you’ll not only gain a deep understanding of how aircraft operate but also learn about aviation safety and risk management. You’ll become proficient in handling emergencies and practicing procedures to ensure your confidence and preparedness. Over time, what once felt intimidating or uncertain will become second nature. Turbulence, once a source of unease, will seem like a mere ripple in the sky, and flying through clouds will become an enchanting experience rather than a daunting one. This newfound sense of control and mastery extends beyond the cockpit, boosting your confidence to tackle other challenges in life with greater resilience and courage.

7. Unique Adventures (and Dates)

Dinner and a movie? That’s old news. How about a sunset flight over the coastline or a quick trip to a nearby city? Sounds like a date to remember!

Having a Private Pilot’s License opens up a world of unique and unforgettable date opportunities . But it’s not just romantic outings that become extraordinary. You can plan thrilling group adventures with friends or family, taking them on scenic flights to explore new places. Whether it’s a surprise birthday flight or a weekend getaway to a remote cabin, these airborne adventures create memories that stand out and stories that are shared for years to come. So, if you’re looking for a way to infuse excitement and romance into your life, having a PPL can elevate your experiences to new heights, quite literally.

8. Build Discipline and Responsibility

Flying is fun, but it also teaches responsibility. You’re in charge of the safety of your passengers and your aircraft.

As you progress in your pilot training, you’ll develop habits of thorough pre-flight inspections, precise communication with air traffic control, and adherence to safety protocols. These habits naturally spill over into your daily routine, making you more diligent and dependable in all your endeavors.

9. Sense of Achievement

The journey to earning a PPL is filled with challenges. But the moment you receive that license? It’s a feeling of accomplishment like no other.

Every flight, every lesson, and every successful landing represents a step toward this goal, making the accomplishment all the more rewarding.

The skills and qualities you’ve cultivated on your path to becoming a pilot, such as discipline, problem-solving, and resilience, extend beyond aviation and positively influence various facets of your life. So, if you’re seeking a fulfilling and empowering endeavor, obtaining your Private Pilot’s License is a journey toward profound satisfaction and personal growth.

10. Lifelong Learning

Becoming a private pilot isn’t the end of your aviation journey; it’s just the beginning . Aviation is a field that constantly evolves with advancements in technology and regulations. This means that as a pilot, you’re signing up for a lifelong journey of learning and growth .

After obtaining your Private Pilot’s License, you can pursue additional ratings and endorsements, such as instrument or multi-engine ratings, which open up new horizons in aviation. You can also explore specialized areas like aerobatics, seaplane flying, or gliding , each offering unique challenges and experiences.

Recommended

25 items every pilot should have on their bucket list, commitments of becoming a private pilot.

While the allure of soaring through the skies and experiencing the thrill of flight is undeniable, it’s crucial to recognize that earning a Private Pilot’s License (PPL) comes with certain commitments and responsibilities . These commitments are an integral part of your journey to becoming a safe and competent pilot. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect:

Financial Commitment

Acquiring a PPL involves a financial investment. The cost typically includes flight training, ground school materials, examination fees, aircraft rental, and more. While it’s an investment in a lifelong passion, it’s essential to budget for this commitment and ensure it aligns with your financial goals.

Time Commitment

Flying demands time and dedication. Flight lessons, pre-flight inspections, and post-flight briefings are all part of the training process. It’s not unusual for flight lessons to take several months to complete. Additionally, weather conditions can affect the frequency of your lessons, so flexibility in your schedule is vital.

Safety First

As a pilot, safety is paramount. Commitment to safety practices is non-negotiable. You’ll undergo rigorous training in safety protocols and adhere to standardized procedures for every flight. This commitment extends to pre-flight checks, emergency procedures, and ongoing awareness of safety issues.

Currency Requirements

To maintain your PPL, you’ll need to meet specific currency requirements, such as completing regular flight reviews, maintaining landing and night flying currency, and staying current on instrument flight rules if applicable. These requirements ensure that your skills are sharp and your knowledge up-to-date.

Responsibility

As a pilot, you’re responsible not only for your safety but also for the safety of your passengers and the aircraft. This sense of responsibility extends to decision-making, flight planning, and adhering to air traffic control instructions. It’s a commitment to prioritize safety above all else.

Continuous Learning

Aviation is a dynamic field with ever-evolving technology and regulations. Committing to continuous learning is essential. You’ll need to stay informed about changes in aviation rules and advancements in aircraft technology to ensure you’re operating safely and within the law.

While these commitments are essential aspects of the journey to becoming a private pilot, they are also what make the experience both rewarding and enriching . They instill discipline, responsibility, and a deep appreciation for the privilege of flying. By embracing these commitments, you’ll not only earn your wings but also become a safer and more knowledgeable aviator, fully prepared to explore the skies with confidence.

Learning tip : A ground school course is not only useful when preparing for your FAA written test, it’s also a great way for experienced pilots to brush up on some knowledge or prepare for future check rides.

About the author

Senne Vandenputte

As a 28-year-old digital entrepreneur, glider pilot, private pilot and tow plane pilot, Senne is passionate about aviation. He started gliding at age 14 and flew his first solo in a glider at 15. After getting his PPL about 10 years later, he mostly spends his weekends towing gliders into the air. When not flying, he runs his marketing & web design business , fun projects like Hangar.Flights, scuba diving, traveling and enjoying the outdoors.

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Become a Pilot

What is the first step to becoming a pilot.

Decide what you want to fly. FAA's rules for getting a pilot's license (certificate) differ depending on the type of aircraft you fly. You can choose among airplanes, gyroplanes, helicopters, gliders, balloons, or airships. If you are interested in flying ultralight vehicles, you don't need a pilot's license.

You should also think about what type of flying you want to do. There are several different types of pilot's licenses, from student pilot all the way up to airline transport pilot. The information below describes the eligibility, training, experience, and testing requirements for Student Pilots, Recreational Pilots and Private Pilots.

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• 10 Things You Can Do With a Private Pilot License

Liz Brassaw

In this post we’ll share our top 10 things you can do with a private pilot license.

If you’re a brand new private pilot or just getting started on your journey to become a private pilot this article will help you begin to enjoy the many benefits of holding a ppl.

I’ve trained hundreds of students during my years as a flight instructor and have been able to see my students experience many of these benefits once they obtain their private pilot certificate.

We receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

All too often, students look at the private pilot license as a stepping stone to other things. But the private is a powerful certificate that grants amazing privileges to its holder.

What can you do with a private pilot license? Maybe a better question is, what can’t you do with it!

Many private pilots don’t realize that they can do so much with just their ppl.

Granted, every flight instructor reading this is obligated now to point out that there are limitations on the private license, including that you cannot get paid for your flying.

But there are lots of exceptions to even that!

What can you do with a private pilot license? Here are ten examples to get you started.

(If you’re wondering how to get a pilot license check out his post on the private pilot certificate ).

1. Take Family & Friends Flying

Once you’ve gotten your pilots license, one of the most fun things you can do is share flying with the people who are closest to you.

I’d argue this is one of the biggest benefits of a private pilot license.

They’ve all heard how much you love flying and how much you’ve learned from your flying lessons. So show them what it’s all about!

Private pilots are allowed to carry passengers, just not for hire. Interestingly enough, private pilots can split the costs of a flight with friends and family.

That means if you have a group who wants to fly with you, they can help you pay for it all. The FAA uses the term “pro-rata share;” you must pay for your part of the flight.

If you have one other person, then you can divide the costs in half. If there are four of you, you must pay for a quarter. Costs can include rental fees, fuel, and whatever other costs are associated with the actual flight.

Many pilots learn to fly in two-seat aircraft, limiting the number of passengers you can carry with you. But, what aircraft can you fly with a ppl?

Well, there’s no limit on the type of plane a private pilot can fly as long as they meet the ratings on their license.

If you are rated to fly single-engine land airplanes, you can fly any of them, so long as they are less than 12,500 pounds and not turbine-powered.

If you’ve never flown a four or six-seater, the first step is to find one for rent or an airplane to buy . Upgrading to a four-seat Cessna or Piper is easy, and they fly very similarly to the smaller varieties. Before you can rent it, the FBO will require a check-out with their instructor to familiarize you with the plane. It’s not a test or anything–it’s just a quick and easy flight lesson.

Six-seaters are usually high-performance airplanes, which will require more training. Likewise, “complex planes,” with flaps, adjustable propellers, and retractable landing gear, will require additional training.

[If you want to pick up an extra headset for friends to fly with you check out our post on the best aviation headsets .]

2. Fly at Night

Your training included a few hours of night flight, and you’re allowed to fly anytime you like.

Night flights are a lot of fun since they provide a beautiful view of the world from above, especially over cities. Airports are neat at night, too.

3. Check Out a Fly-In or Aviation Festival

Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and Lakeland, Florida, host the first and second-largest fly-ins in the world, respectively.  EAA Airventure in Oshkosh  is a colossal aviation festival.

Hundreds of airplanes converge on the town every year in late July.  Sun-n-Fun  is its southern cousin and is nearly as big. It takes place in Lakeland, near Orlando, every April.

Both events are part fly-in, part industry trade show, and part airshow.

You’ll see planes from all different areas of aviation and meet pilots from all over the world. There are seminars to learn new skills and plenty of pilot toys to check out.

Flying into these events takes a little planning. There are always special traffic procedures to handle the astonishing amount of aircraft that converge on these airports.

At Lakeland, for example, they divide up both the main runway and its parallel taxiway into thirds, creating six separate landing areas and touchdown points. It can be intense, but with a little planning, it’s worth the trouble.

There are also many regional aviation meet-ups and fly-ins all over the country. Find the local place to fly in for weekend breakfasts or barbecues.

Another option is an aerobatic competition, which is also a lot of fun if you can find them in your area.

4. Learn a New Skill

One thing that keeps aviation interesting is that there’s always something new to learn.

The private license is just the first step you take. You might buy a Cessna and fly for fun for the rest of your aviation career, but that doesn’t stop you from trying new things and expanding your skills.

A few of the things you can try out are aerobatics, flying a taildragger, or mountain flying. These are all skills that your license allows you to do, but they generally aren’t covered in your training.

All you have to do is find a flight instructor who is an expert and get a few hours of dual instructor. Taildraggers; high-performance planes with more than 200 horsepower; and complex planes with flaps, retractable landing gear, and constant-speed propellers require an instructor endorsement.

And, of course, many pilots love honing their skills enough to pursue other ratings. The instrument rating takes your flying to the next level by teaching you how to fly like the professionals.

It’s a lot of fun, and it’s a big challenge, but your flying skills will improve tenfold.

5. Take a Business Trip

Many private pilots don’t realize that they can travel for business with the ppl.

A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if: 

(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and 

(2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.

Look at all of the general aviation airports that serve the communities in which you work. Many FBOs have courtesy cars or access to rental cars.

6. Fly for a Charity

You’re allowed to donate your time to charity flying with a private certificate.

Examples of the most popular charities involve providing flights to people who need distant medical care or helping move rescue pets to their forever homes.

There are also environmental charities conducting survey flights or taking scientists aloft, or taking passengers who have always dreamed of flying on trips.

Flying Magazine has compiled a great list of many  aviation charities . The choice of charities varies depending on your region of the country.

7. Take Your Date Night to New Heights

Want to impress a special someone? Try a romantic flight! It can be a simple trip around the pattern if they’re nervous or as involved as a weekend trip to the mountains or beach.

The $100 Hamburger trip for a romantic dinner after a cross country is a date never to be forgotten, and it doesn’t  have  to be a hamburger.

8. Fly Internationally

Can a private pilot fly internationally? It’s a question we hear regularly from new students.

There aren’t any substantial limits on traveling with your private license; you can fly all over the world.

If you’re on a trip and you’d like to go flying, it may be as simple as heading to the nearest GA airport and going up with an instructor.

Depending on the country and its requirements, you may even be able to rent a plane and go up alone.

If you want to stick closer to home, check out some closer borders you can legally cross. Canada, Mexico, and The Bahamas all make outstanding aviation destinations. Flying internationally requires a little studying to ensure you understand your destination’s rules and regulations.

There are always little differences to brush up on. If you’re renting a plane, an instructor will help you with a check-out flight. If you’re on your own, call  AOPA  or the country in question’s aviation department.

Of course, once you put home behind you, you might not want to stop anytime soon. How about South America, the Caribbean, or maybe Europe? Many pilots dream of flying around the world in a general aviation airplane. What an adventure!

There are plenty of blogs and stories to check out from pilots who have done it. Joining the “ Earthrounder ” club is truly a bucket list dream.

9. Go Traveling and Sightseeing

You don’t have to leave home to see some cool stuff. The United States has one of the most varied landscapes of any nation.

From sea to shining sea, America is made for flying. An aerial tour of the country is a great way to see a lot and to see it in a way that many people would only ever dream of.

Private pilots can fly nearly anywhere. For most of the country, VFR flying requires no notice and no approvals. Just hop in your plane and go!

Remember, if you are a flat-lander traveling to the mountains, it’s a good idea to look into getting a mountain check-out flight from a  knowledgeable certified flight instructor .

Even if you don’t want to go far, there are many places to see from the air closer to home.

10. Share Your Passion for Aviation With Others

Last on my list of what can you do with a ppl license is to share your passion for flight with others!

You already know that you can take folks flying, but there are other ways to share your passion.

The FAA Ground Instructor certificate is a great way to get into mentoring and teaching. The certificate requires nothing more than a few written exams.

After a little bit of studying and passing those tests, you get your license and teach ground school classes . It’s an easy first step toward  becoming a flight instructor , and it puts you ahead of the game if you ever wanted to get your commercial.

So, after asking yourself, what can I do with a private pilot license, hopefully this guide gave you some great ideas!

Ready to move forward after completing your private pilot license? Take a look at the cost to buy an airplane .

• About the Author
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Liz Brassaw is a first officer for a regional airline and the former Chief Pilot and Chief Flight Operations Officer for Thrust Flight. She holds an ATP, CFI, CFII, MEI, AMEL, ASES with over 2,500 hours of flight instruction given. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the Utah Valley University School of Aviation Sciences . She’s passionate about flying and enjoys instilling that love in the instructors on her team and the new students she trains.

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6 responses to “10 Things You Can Do With a Private Pilot License”

Don’t forget flying for free by being a member of the USAF AUX. CIVIL AIR PATROL. Cadets can also get a pilots licence for free..

This is excellent. Now say I have my PPL ready to go, how much is it to fly from London over to the states?

If one wants to buy a plane to get a PPL can they buy a multi engine turbo prop plane with flaps an a retractable gear to earn the PPL with the necessary endorsements? Or do they have to start with single engine?

Yes, you can get your PPL in a multi-engine airplane. You would have a multi-engine land class rating instead of a single-engine land rating. If you did this, however, you wouldn’t be able to fly any single-engine airplanes. In the future, you could add a single-engine land rating at a later date if you want to ever fly a single-engine plane.

Single engine.

Short answer: you can fly. (Although any good flight instructor will tell you that a PPL is just a license to learn.)

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Tips for a Successful Private Pilot License Journey

Becoming a private pilot is a thrilling and rewarding journey that offers you the freedom to explore the skies and embark on unforgettable adventures. Earning your Private Pilot License (PPL) is a significant achievement, but it also demands dedication, commitment, and careful planning. To help you navigate the path to becoming a private pilot successfully, we've compiled a comprehensive guide filled with tips, advice, and insights to ensure your journey is both enjoyable and rewarding.

Set Clear Goals and Expectations

• Define Your Objectives: Begin your PPL journey by setting clear goals. Determine what you want to achieve with your private pilot's license, whether it's for personal travel, recreational flying, or pursuing a career in aviation.
• Realistic Expectations: Understand that earning your PPL requires time, effort, and financial investment. Be realistic about the commitment required and the potential challenges you may face along the way.
• Stay Committed: The journey can be challenging, so maintaining your commitment to your goals is crucial. Keep your motivation high by reminding yourself of the incredible experiences that await you as a private pilot.

Choose the Right Flight School

• Research Flight Schools: Do thorough research to select the flight school that best suits your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as location, reputation, instructor-to-student ratio, fleet size, and training resources.
• Visit the School: If possible, visit the flight school in person to get a feel for the environment, meet the instructors, and evaluate the quality of their facilities and aircraft.
• Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask flight schools and instructors questions about their training programs, costs, and their approach to teaching. This will help you make an informed decision.
• Check Accreditation: Ensure the flight school is accredited by relevant aviation authorities and adheres to safety and training standards.

Plan and Budget Carefully

• Budget Wisely: Create a comprehensive budget that includes not only the cost of flight hours and ground school but also other expenses like study materials, examination fees, and potential gear and equipment.
• Financial Planning: Explore financing options, such as loans, scholarships, grants, and payment plans offered by flight schools, to help you manage your expenses effectively.
• Flexible Payment: Some flight schools offer flexible payment options that allow you to pay for training as you progress, rather than a lump sum upfront.
• Prepare for Extra Costs: Be prepared for unexpected expenses like additional flight hours, ground school extensions, and potential retakes of exams or checkride components.

Embrace Ground School and Study

• Dedicate Time to Ground School: Ground school is essential for building a strong foundation in aviation theory and regulations. Dedicate time to studying and participating actively in your ground school sessions.
• Use Varied Learning Resources: Utilize a variety of learning resources, including textbooks, online courses, study guides, and educational apps. These resources will provide different perspectives on the material.
• Self-Directed Study: Complement your formal ground school with self-directed study. Review materials independently, create flashcards, and test your knowledge through practice exams.
• Stay Consistent: Consistency is key to retaining information. Schedule regular study sessions to reinforce your understanding of the material.

Learn from Experienced Instructors

• Build a Strong Relationship: Develop a strong rapport with your flight instructor. Effective communication and trust are vital for successful training.
• Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions during your flight lessons or ground school. Your instructor is there to guide you and address any concerns you have.
• Listen to Feedback: Embrace constructive criticism and feedback from your instructor. Learning from your mistakes is an integral part of your training.
• Stay Open-Minded: Be open to different teaching methods and advice from your instructor. They bring their experience and expertise to your training.

Prioritize Safety and Decision-Making

• Safety First: Make safety your top priority throughout your training. Learn to assess risks and make safe decisions in every aspect of your flying.
• Understand Weather: Gain a thorough understanding of weather patterns and how they can impact your flights. Learn to read weather reports and make informed decisions based on forecasts.
• Master Emergency Procedures: Develop strong skills in handling emergencies, such as engine failures, equipment malfunctions, and communication breakdowns.
• Use the Four Ps: Remember the "Four Ps" of decision-making – Perceive, Process, Perform, and Prioritize – as a framework for handling challenging situations in the cockpit.

Focus on the Flight Training

• Master the Basics: Ensure you have a solid foundation in the basics of flying, including aircraft control, takeoffs, landings, and flight maneuvers.
• Flight Hours: Consistently log flight hours to build experience and confidence. Plan regular flights and practice a variety of maneuvers, both under VFR and IFR conditions.
• Cross-Country Navigation: Develop navigation skills, including cross-country flight planning, navigation techniques, and the use of navigation aids.
• Solo Flights: Embrace the opportunity for solo flights as milestones in your training. Solo flights allow you to apply your knowledge and skills independently.
• Stay Organized: Maintain thorough flight logs and records to track your progress. This documentation will be invaluable for your checkride and future flights.

Prepare for the Private Pilot Checkride

• Review the ACS: Understand the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS) thoroughly. The ACS outlines the standards you'll be evaluated against during your checkride.
• Practice Checkride Scenarios: Participate in mock checkrides or practice scenarios with your flight instructor to prepare for the oral and flight examinations.
• Stay Calm: On the day of your checkride, stay calm and composed. Effective communication with the designated pilot examiner (DPE) is key.
• Safety First: Prioritize safety during the checkride. The DPE will assess your ability to make safe decisions and apply the knowledge you've acquired.

Keep Learning and Growing

• Continuing Education: After obtaining your PPL, consider furthering your education with additional ratings or endorsements, such as an instrument rating, commercial pilot certificate, or tailwheel endorsement.
• Join Aviation Communities: Get involved in aviation communities, clubs, and associations to connect with fellow pilots, share experiences, and stay updated on industry developments.
• Fly Regularly: Continue flying regularly to maintain your skills and stay confident. Take friends and family on flights to share your passion for aviation.
• Set New Goals: Challenge yourself with new aviation goals and adventures, such as flying to new destinations, participating in air races, or even becoming a flight instructor.

How to become a pilot!

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The journey to earning your Private Pilot License is an incredible experience filled with growth, discovery, and adventure. With clear goals, careful planning, dedicated study, and effective training, you can successfully navigate the path to becoming a private pilot. Keep safety at the forefront of your journey, embrace the guidance of experienced instructors, and remember that the sky is not the limit—it's just the beginning of your exciting aviation adventure. Safe flying.

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Your Journey, Your Success: At AV8, we're not just training pilots – we're nurturing future aviation leaders. With our Private Pilot Ground School Training, you'll be well-prepared to ace your exams and embark on your flight journey with confidence. Whether you're aiming for recreational flying or pursuing a professional pilot career, AV8 is here to guide you every step of the way.

Enroll today and let your aviation dreams take flight! 

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I was pleasantly surprised by the exceptional quality of the Private Pilot Course! Within a brief timeframe, I acquired all the essential knowledge and skills required to obtain my private pilot certification. The instructors demonstrated extensive expertise, the course material covered everything comprehensively, and the support offered throughout was truly remarkable. Without hesitation, I enthusiastically endorse this course to anyone seeking to embark on a professional drone piloting journey. It's a worthwhile investment that yields significant returns!

I owe my success in passing the written FAA exam with a remarkable 97% to AV8Prep's exceptional online ground school. Their comprehensive resources and effective teaching approach made the learning process engaging and ensured I was well-prepared for the exam. I highly recommend AV8Prep to anyone seeking a reliable and effective way to ace their pilot exam.

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What Is the Difference Between a Professional Pilot and a Private Pilot?

Professional pilots are individuals who fly aircraft as a paid occupation. They typically work for commercial airlines, charter companies, or corporations and undergo cirrus flight training.

Private pilots are aviation enthusiasts who fly for recreational or personal reasons. Unlike professional pilots, they do not typically fly for compensation or transport passengers or cargo for hire.

Future pilots can go through cirrus training in Logan if they’re serious about becoming a pilot. Let’s explore more details.

Professional Pilot vs. Private Pilot: Understanding the Distinctions

Training and qualifications.

To qualify as a professional pilot, one must undergo extensive training and obtain certifications such as a commercial pilot license (CPL) or an airline transport pilot license (ATPL). These licenses require hundreds of hours of flight experience and specialized training in areas like instrument flying, navigation, and aerodynamics.

To become a private pilot, individuals must complete training and obtain a private pilot license (PPL). While the training requirements for a PPL are less stringent than those for commercial certifications, aspiring private pilots still undergo comprehensive instruction in flight principles, navigation, and safety procedures.

Responsibilities

Professional pilots are responsible for safely operating aircraft, transporting passengers or cargo to their destinations, and adhering to strict flight schedules. They must also stay current with regulations, undergo regular proficiency checks, and undergo recurrent training to maintain their certifications.

Private pilots have the freedom to fly for leisure, travel, or personal errands. However, they must adhere to regulations governing airspace usage, weather conditions, and aircraft maintenance. Safety remains paramount, and private pilots are responsible for ensuring the airworthiness of their aircraft and conducting thorough pre-flight checks.

Career Path

The career path of a professional pilot often begins with obtaining a private pilot license (PPL) before progressing to more advanced certifications like the CPL or ATPL. Many professional pilots start as flight instructors or gain experience in other aviation-related roles before transitioning to commercial aviation.

Elevate Aviation offers everything from aircraft management, jet ownership, pilot services, and more. Contact them today if you’re serious about your pilot journey and available private training for quality results. Make every flight and experience enjoyable and memorable!

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Our mission at Journey Air Pilot Training is to make your path to becoming a professional pilot both straightforward and achievable.

At Journey Air Pilot Training, we have structured our flight training units (FTUs) to offer you the flexibility of paying as you go. This approach is designed to align with your personal and professional goals, ensuring a seamless and accessible training experience.

Whether you are just starting out or looking to enhance your existing skills, our program caters to every stage of your aviation journey. Each FTU at Journey Air Pilot Training is carefully curated to guide you towards your goal, with a clear focus on easy progression.

We believe in transparency and planning, which is why each offered FTU includes a rough price estimate based on Transport Canada Requirements as well as minimum flying and training times to help you in effectively managing your finances and training schedule.

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Learning to fly after 55

The Covid pandemic at least had one positive outcome for me: achieving my Private Pilot license. I have always wanted to share my journey and offer some lessons learned and tips for those that are either learning how to fly or are considering it—especially if you are 55 years of age or older.

Learning to fly later in life is fun and rewarding if you approach it with the right mindset.

Where did my love of flying begin? Both my father and mother took flying lessons from a flight instructor, Joseph Susi (now deceased). He moved into our home as a boarder, my parents divorced, and my mother married the CFI. My dad did get his Private Pilot license and my mom only soloed.

Many times as a teenager I would hang around the airport watching the general aviation planes come and go. In my early 20s, Joe (my stepfather) would take me up and give me some lessons in a Cessna 150—I would pay for the fuel. Eventually, college and career got in the way and flying lessons stopped.

Fast forward 40 years later, and here I was in Covid 2020—working from home and growing bored with flying in X-Plane, a computer-based simulator. I started my flight instruction at a flight school at a Class D airport and quickly learned that while air traffic control offers some great radio practice, you do pay for the time the propeller is spinning and you can waste a lot of time on the taxiway or just holding short while the meter is running (Hobbs).

I decided to make a change to a closer flight school that was a non-towered airport. In contacting the school, I requested a flight instructor closer to my age (60s) and was offered the chief flight instructor. During our introductory flight I told him the story above regarding my parents and then he said, “oh, he taught me how to fly.” So, imagine that: I was now taking flying lessons from a CFI who had lessons from my stepfather!

Here are some tips and lessons learned if you are just now starting your journey to Private Pilot.

If you are over 55, understand that it helps if you are in pretty good physical shape . There will be times you may have to climb up on a high wing aircraft like a Cessna 172 to check the fuel in the tanks or add fuel to the tanks. You will most likely have to pull the plane out of a hangar or parking as well as put it back. Spend some time lifting some weights and do some aerobic exercise (I walk three miles a day and do lift weights three days a week).

Choose your headset carefully and don’t cheap it out. I made the mistake of not getting a headset with Bluetooth and when I wanted to use ForeFlight on my iPad, I couldn’t hear alerts from the ADS-B—“Traffic 1,000 feet below.” I now use Bose A20 with Bluetooth.

Understand that early during training words like “spins,” “stalls,” and “steep turns” may scare you half to death—they did me. There is a wonderful feeling in facing your fears and coming out of it with accomplishment. In the end, none of those words will scare you and you will look back and say, “it really wasn’t that bad.”

These maneuvers–along with others–will be required for you to perform during your check ride. I found that often these are taught early on during your instruction and then again at the end. Ask your instructor to include them along your journey so that when checkride time comes, you are not trying to get used to them again.

During my long three-hour required solo flight in the heat of summer, I learned that the heat convection off the surface of the earth made it bumpy , as well as the missing 200 pounds of my CFI. Understand that as the weight of the plane gets less, you will more likely feel the bumps in the air. You’ll get used to it and not even think about it over time.

Check to be sure that your flight school will allow you to fly beyond the required solo hours –my first flight school did not, second school did.

Don’t forget to enjoy the view once in awhile—even if it means you fly beyond your required solo hours.

Of all the repetitive things you will do, landings are always different and don’t expect to land like a passenger jet. Spend time on working on the stabilized approach and remember that airspeed is your life! Never shy away from going around. Never think that going around makes you a failure; it makes you a very safe and smart pilot.

Be aware of a tailwind that may push you past making the turn to final , which might tempt you to make a steep turn from base to final at low airspeed. This can put the plane in a stalling situation and spin, which can result in death–go around!

I video recorded my lessons (with my CFI’s approval) using a GoPro Hero 8 with an Audio Adapter Cable (so I could capture headset and radio communication). It was helpful to go back and watch and listen.

While you may like strapping an iPad to your thigh as a student pilot (using something like ForeFlight), you’ll find that when you are flying solo either as a student or a Private Pilot, the looking up and down motion can initiate disorientation. I now use the new iPad mini (more screen real-estate) and a suction mount to place it on the left side windshield. I tried using an iPad Pro 11” (too big) and an iPhone Pro Max (screen too small).

As your lessons begin you may be thinking, I should get a flight bag to carry my headset. Don’t make the mistake that I did and buy just some little bag—soon you’ll find out it’s too small. So now as a Private Pilot, what all is in my bag?

• Headset, logbook, sunglasses case (be sure to NOT use polarized sunglasses if you want to see some avionics like the GPS screen).
• Cloth for cleaning the windshield (I hate bug splats), cameras, mounts, audio adapter cable, Sentry ADS-B, battery pack, leg strap for writing pad, sectional chart, E6B calculator (although I use an app for that on my iPhone).
• A place for my iPad and extra cables for charging.

Now finally, I would like to inform you that if you think it’s all about just sitting in the left seat next to your CFI to accomplish the requirements to Private Pilot, you will fail. Below are some tips on what you need to do in addition to just getting up in the air with your CFI. The following is a list of what I used to pass both the Knowledge Test and my checkride:

• Online ground school from Kings Schools. Their format and testing of knowledge as well as sample tests are great. I got an 88% on my test
• POH for the airplane used for lessons and checkride
• Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
• Airplane Flying Handbook
• Private Pilot Oral Exam Guide
• 2021 FAR/AIM – there is also a great app for iOS for this
• Pass Your Private Pilot Checkride by Jason Schappert (both PDF and audio book)
• Practice flights using a computer-based simulator like X-Plane or Microsoft Flight Simulator.
• Take advantage of free tools like YouTube, AOPA, FAA hosted webinars and alerts.

Now I am working on my Instrument Rating so that I can be a safer and more knowledgeable pilot.

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• Friday photo: Ocean City, Maryland in the winter - March 22, 2024
• Friday photo: Approach into York, PA (KTHV) Runway 35 - November 3, 2023

I would add, as one who started the journey at age 49, the book studies are quite a bit harder than when I was younger. Plus work, family, and life balance can be a struggle. But it’s all worth it.

Wow. Almost the exact same story, right down to the gear recommendations. Except, no flying in my family tree. I have controlled diabetes, but there are no hard criteria for Class III medical pass or fail. Not going to take that chance and never get to fly. Fortunately, the local airport has a large fleet of LSAs. So, I was able to go the SPL route.

Thanks Ken for commenting. Small world huh? I just bought a wing tie down camera mount for my second GoPro Hero 8 and a GoPro remote so I can control that camera remotely – including turning it on and off from the remote so I don’t waste battery life. I have a YouTube Channel if you want to look: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCljIQlqwskQ9eJ_WpcIaoRQ This week I get to have a JetBlu Pilot fly with me as he is in our flying club – want some tips on landings and pattern entry, etc. Should be fun!

Very-well done. Thank you. As I contemplate a mid-50’s number of candles on my next birthday cake, the article addressed a majority of personal concerns I’ve had about returning to the cockpit. It offered many relevant perspectives on how I might best attract, maintain, and retain the passion I have for general aviation.

I’m a retired Air Force and airline pilot. BUT, I retired back in 2002 and I have forgotten just about everything connected to GA. A buddy of mine has a really nice plane and has given me several rides. The stick and rudder part is just fine, but the knowledge of air spaces and ATC communications is lacking. In the airlines your dispatcher did all the flight planning and other things so all you have to do is plug it in the airplanes computer. So you tend to forget all about filing flight plans, weight and balance and other things as it is all done for you. All you really do is fly the plane (or manage the autopilot) and talk to ATC when they transfer you to another sector. For me to get a single engine rating on my ticket I guess I have to pass a few tests and fly a check ride. I picked up a FAA AIM and realized I have some studying to do and at my age things don’t stick very well. I set myself up with a good home flight simulator (X-plane 11) with good controllers and this is helping out a lot.

I started late’ish, at 42, in Fresno. Got the SE/ME CPL/IR in 3 months. full-time, then took over 12 months to get the UK licences. Slower, more intensive and expensive, and very demanding. First job at 45 (Fokker F-27), then A320 at 48, A330 at 49. Finished at 65. Age didn’t stop me studying, getting through those pesky recurrent checks, and I was fortunate with medicals. Those tips from David Smith are all valuable. I would just add to his advice one key point. If you cannot get along with an instructor (you may have a few along the way), let him/her know that once you are in the crew room, And suggest a swap. It is not an easy thing to do, but not all teachers suit all pupils. Remember school. I changed my instructor just before my UK instrument ride, and it was the best thing I could have done. And he bore me no grudge.

David: A nice article. I do a lot of instruction for older folks here in MD, and I’d add that expectations are important. Older folks simply do not pick up things as fast as younger folks. If you are pushing 60, don’t expect a private certificate in anywhere close to 40 hours nor a sport certificate in anything like 20 hours. But, go for it anyway. Best for 2022.

Thanks Vince, I will say that my CFI commented that when he compared how I studied and was prepared at each lesson and for check ride, I was much more prepared at each lesson and check ride because those of us over 55 and have college degrees knows what is required to prepare, he said some younger students believe it’s all about the 1-2 hours of flying only. I will say that being under part 14 CFR I took my time, and yes – we probably closer to 60 hours when I went for my check ride. For me it wasn’t a race, it was waiting until both I and my CFI felt I was ready to sit for the check ride.

David, I really appreciate your taking time to write a nice concise and to the point article about your experiences. I started training at 65 and wanted to learn since I was eleven. I had a couple of wonderful experiences then in two C172s one in the back seat when my best friend’s father gave flight instruction and another getting to fly with my father and I as passengers to Cape Canaveral for a tour. School and raising children made anything as consuming as learning to fly out of the question and after starting the training it was even more obvious that it had been the best idea to wait. It would have been a tough nut for me at even at 20 but I got (after a couple tries) the perfect instructor for my personality, age and attention span. It took a little longer than I expected but it was all about my gaining confidence, after so long away from school and at my age that I had what it took. My instructor made all the difference here and something that so many say and that is don’t be afraid to look for the best instructor for you. She made each lesson to be framed as “look what we learned today” not how much we need to learn or should have done better. Anyway, I’m now a private pilot (also just starting instrument training with online ground school) and it feels incredible to have achieved it and be able to get out there and fly for the sheer joy of it. We all can do and can achieve much more than we often give ourselves credit for.

Thanks again and all the best !

Congratulations on your achievement! The passions that we have when we are young are often buried in our responsibilities as we get older. There is no greater joy than seeing someone who has that passion to continue pursuing a dream despite the timeline and despite the challenges. Outstanding article!

While in graduate school in the 1960’s I accompanied a fellow grad student friend to Horton Aviation in Morrisville, PA. My friend, already a CFI, was bound for a career in aviation flying for TWA and wanted to see if Horton Aviation could use him as a CFI while he was building time. They could not, but before we left that day I had taken my introductory flight in a nice new Piper Cherokee 140 and was hooked.

My training bogged down at Horton Aviation because I was training with whichever CFI was available, not with a single CFI and there was a lot of repetition.

After switching to a university flying club and a dedicated CFI the training went considerably smoother. I received my PPSEL in a Cessna 150 in 1967 at age 26. There are anecdotes to tell about that experience, but I’ll stick to my main story.

Shortly thereafter I left academia, married the love of my life, and started a career and family.

As happened with many of you reading this, balancing all of this became problematic and I gave up flying in 1971. During that short flying interval I had the pleasure of flying Cessna 150’s and 172’s, Piper Cherokee 140’s and a 235, and a Beech Musketeer.

Fast forward to 2009, career over, family raised, I found myself a widower at age 68 and decided to reconnect with flying to take my mind off of my loss. I took an AOPA “Rusty Pilot’s” course, passed a fight physical and got checked out to fly again in a 150 sitting next to an airline pilot/CFI. I was ready to fly solo again when after 10 hours he said “that I wasn’t scaring him as much as when we began the check out procedure”.

To complement the practical part of the check out I took several refresher classes at a local community college (basic navigation, advanced navigation, basic meteorology, advanced meteorology, instrument ground school and commercial ground school. I was able to take these classes free as a senior citizen, and participated fully with the other (considerably younger) students.

After flying with a flying club for several years I decided to buy an airplane. Initially I was thinking it would be a Mooney, and I looked at several before deciding that I should be looking at a plane that is more befitting my age (i.e., something easier to get in and out of). I found a very nice low-time 1977 Cessna 182-Q nearby and was able to purchase it at age 75.

When I turned 80 this past June I was invited to join a select group of pilots, those who have flown as PIC after age 80. While I am a novice compared to most of these pilots, becoming a UFO (United Flying Octogenarians) is the peak of my flying experience. I’m not sure how much longer I may be able to fly, but it’s been an exciting and fun retirement activity.

Dick, A great story and something to be proud of to be sure. I admire you since turning into an easy chair is too easy to do and something that I personally wanted to avoid. Your story about going to school with much younger folks, hits home in particular. Almost all of the students in this area (Battle Creek Michigan) are from the Western Michigan University School of Aviation and are in their twenties.

Congratulations on your accomplishments after an age that most would give up and not try! I am finally starting my ground school this weekend. I just turned 71. I have been waiting on my medical results since March 2021. COVID and “working from home” is the excuse for the big delay here in Ontario, Canada. Sometimes I think I am being foolish in starting so late but I know if I wait, I will regret that choice.

Maybe someday, I too can be a UFO (United Flying Octogenarian)?

Awesome story! You rock, what a great inspiration for me to absorb your story. Gives me hope. Just starting at 61, the challenges have been, to say the least, humbling. At times I want to cry and wonder how I got myself into this? Yet, when I read your journey along with these many others keeps me moving forward.

Thanks for sharing

Keep Flying

Great story David. I started the week I turned 62 and finished a couple of months after turning 65. Think I wound up flying with about 12 different instructors. Thankfully I was blessed to find CFIs who knew how to work with older and slower students. Bought a Grumman Tiger about a year later and still flying almost 12 years later. You made a lot of good recommendations for us older pilots that other older students should follow. Hope you can continue flying for a lot more years.

One more encouragement from an older rookie. I started at 58 and took 15 months (and 2 X 40 hours) to get my ticket. I bought a RV9A five months later and have flown 200 hours per year in the two years since. I love it and hope to fly for another 30. Old pilots fly on silvered wings!

Appreciate the perspective of the older student pilot, as many of us don’t find the time or money until later in life. I completed my private 20 months ago at the outbreak of the Covid pandemic (mask on during Checkride) at age 56. I would add that while everything takes me a little longer with training, that the following seems to help me the most: love of flying; patience along with persistence/discipline; and I would echo staying in good physical shape. I have started into my instrument training with some trepidation (as I hear it is the most difficult rating). In this time around I will complete my written test first; use a home simulator, fly my own plane, and read the ACS before getting a CFII.

Great story. I am Canadian and received my USA and Canadian Private Pilots Licenses at age 72 …… its never too late. The study part was a little more difficult than when I was younger but it was well worth it. I’m still only a 300 hour pilot but now have a 2008 T182T which gives me more flexibility. Much of my training was in the busy Delta airspace KAPF and the experience with these very helpful Controllers has been invaluable. Happy New Year!

I totally relate to this. I began flight training at 58 on a whim, with no aviation in the family. Yes, it took waaay longer than for most younger people, but i accomplished private ratings in single engine land, sea, and helicopter, plus tailwheel and high performance endorsements and a bunch of aerobatics and bought my own plane (C152). I guess you could say I got hooked.

Like you I grew up with a fascination for flying. As a youngster I would bicycle to Beaumont Municipal in Texas to bum rides with Gordon Baxter’s rich friends in their Taylorcrafts and Cessnas.

My four daughters bought me the first $500 for Flying lessons when I was fifty and living in San Antonio. In a C-150 I was about to solo, but my wife’s parents both died that year (1994). She convinced me to stop flying altogether and I did.

Do I regret it? Of course, but being realistic about money at the time, and the danger for a novice in the left seat, it was the better decision. Now, with my 79th birthday this week and a marriage of 56 years, I still read Flying, have had several trips to Oshkosh and sometimes can be seen flying right seat in my nephew’s Bellanca Viking. Happy wife. happy Life. Thanks for your great article.

Bill Hodges Colleyville, TX

Great article, I received a Discovery flight on my 60th birthday. Never even thought of flying before, but as people have mentioned I got the bug to fly. Now in flight school, after also trying a few instructors, I have found one I can relate to. I now have 23 hours in the left seat and plan on continuing my training. Vfr then Ifr. I decide to take a online ground school ( also King School, great course.)before I take in person School, which starts this January. It was nice to read I’m not the only one to start later in life. Thanks for a Great read, John M.

Thanks John for your comment. For me, I am pursuing my IFR rating however, I am not making it a priority as much as I did my Private Pilot. My focus on IFR training is first just to make me a safer pilot. If I end up with the rating great, if not I am a much safer VFR pilot. I read an article in a recent pilot magazine that only 15% of those with an IFR rating keep it current. Good luck on your adventure, it will be fun!

Become pilot.

David, Thank you for the story and for all the comments that go along with it. I am about to turn 67 and have always wanted to learn to fly. I have been in aviation for 44 years, but never made the time, had the money, or the priorities were different. This is good input and does give me more incentive to pursue this. I have been told that the accident rate for older student pilots was far greater than those who were younger, but I didn’t see that here. If any one has any other data I would be grateful for the information. Thanks again,

Any words of encouragement or advice for 64 year old female to get started on a private pilot journey?

Wonderful article, thank you.

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• Friday photo: knocking off the rust in the practice area
• Choosing the best IFR route — Advanced IFR, by PilotWorkshops
• Ignore the YouTube crash detectives—it’s usually pilot error
• A Newbie CFI, Disco Fever, and My Inner Voice
• How stress and anxiety affect pilots

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HANGAR FLYING - Timely stories, conversation, and inspirational insights that share The Spirit of Aviation.

My journey to becoming a pilot.

In Learning to Fly , Member Stories .

By Isabella Downton, Northern Manitoba

My student pilot journey did not begin with a discovery flight, it began when I was five years old. My family co-owned a floatplane charter business, and I grew up in this environment. On one particular day, we were taking a trip in the Noorduyn Norseman. I sat on my dad’s lap in the right seat and put my hands on the controls. I looked to my left and saw the pilot raise his hands to indicate I was the one flying. I focused hard on keeping the airplane flying and there was no going back after that; I had caught the bug.

In high school, I applied to the local aviation school which was known to be a tough program. Unfortunately, my offer of acceptance in 2020 was rescinded due to COVID. I waited another year and finally was able to begin flight training in 2021. I earned my private and commercial licenses in Thunder Bay, Ontario. It’s a beautiful city and was a great place to learn how to fly.

Flying is a skill that did not come naturally to me. Being a pilot was my life’s dream and I had to work extra hard to accomplish it. Looking back on my experience, I realize that my largest problem was my confidence. I had yet to realize that half of learning to fly was having the right mindset. I spent 16 months working toward my PPL. During this time, I was grateful to my patient and encouraging instructor who stuck with me while I overcame struggles. After what seemed like a lifetime, I passed my flight test. Things changed for me after I realized I was capable of being a pilot. As I progressed through my time building, my confidence grew along with my humility. Five months later I passed my CPL flight test.

Reflecting on my time as a student pilot, I realize that I am still a student (and not just because I have more ratings to complete). I am a big proponent of lifelong learning. Becoming an instructor has driven home the idea that we are constantly evolving and learning new skills from not only our teachers but also pilots before us, our colleagues, and our students. Despite my journey being challenging, it helped me grow into the person and pilot I am today.

Now, I am on a new adventure, flying floatplanes in northern Manitoba. I can’t help but be grateful that I pushed myself so I can enjoy aviation for all the things it has to offer.

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