4. TRAIN

Learning to fly has two aspects: flight training, where you actually get in an airplane and practice various maneuvers, and ground school training, where you get much of the "book learning" you'll learn about the principles, procedures, and regulations of flight. Optimally, the two occur simultaneously, with ground school knowledge supplementing practical experience in the sky.

Flight training
Ground school training

Flight training

Lessons usually last about two hours, though actual time in the air is closer to one hour, with pre- and post-flight briefings before and after. We recommend that you schedule at least two flight lessons per week (three if possible) - instructors say that students retain more information from lesson to lesson if they take place close together. This doesn't mean you have to manage three days a week at the airfield. Many student pilots fly twice on Saturday and once on Sunday, or once each weekend day plus one weekday after work. Just use your brain and figure out what works best with your schedule.

To earn a private pilot certificate to fly a single-engine airplane, the FAA says you must log:

  • At least 40 hours of flight time.

  • At least 20 hours flying with an authorized instructor (dual flight). This must include at least:
    • 3 hours of cross-country flight
    • 3 hours of night flying, including one cross-country flight of at least 100 nautical miles
    • 3 hours of instrument training
    • 3 hours of practical test preparation with your instructor
  • At least 10 hours flying cross-country by yourself (solo flight).

Once again, these are the minimum time requirements for a private license and most students fly many more hours, depending on ability and flying frequency. The important thing is not how many hours you fly but how much confidence you and your instructor have in your skills and experience. When he/she feels you are a safe and effective pilot, he/she will recommend you for your FAA flight test.

Ground school training

Your study will encompass aerodynamics, airport operations, radio communications, aircraft systems, weather theory, weather reports, navigation, physiology, and regulations - all information that will prepare you to pass a required FAA knowledge test. This is not, however, just information to be learned for a test and then forgotten; it is vital knowledge you will need in order to perform your duties as a proficient, safe pilot.

Most flight schools offer ground school courses or the option of one-on-one instruction with your CFI as training for the knowledge test at a package price of $150-$300, but be aware that there are other (often less expensive) options. Independent ground schools, high schools, community colleges, local universities, and public adult-education programs may provide this instruction.

In addition to a classroom course taught by an instructor, you can also chose to learn on your own in a self-paced study program, utilizing the many videotapes, computerized test preparation software, textbooks, and government-issue study guides and training manuals that are available through your local airport's pilot shop, mail-order catalogs, and specialized bookstores.

Whichever way you chose to pursue ground school training, you will need the endorsement of your instructor to take the knowledge test upon its completion.