PRIVATE PILOT CERTIFICATE


Inside view of a small aircraft cockpit showing various gauges, instruments, and a pilot's hand holding a control, with a cityscape below.

Earning your Private Pilot License (PPL) is your gateway to the skies, and to the freedom, confidence, and excitement that come with being able to fly yourself, friends, and family. Whether you dream of weekend getaways, career flying, or simply want to learn for the love of flight, this is where it all begins.

Small white airplane parked on tarmac during sunset, with sun shining through the propeller.

What You’ll Learn

  • How to safely operate a single-engine aircraft

  • Airspace navigation, weather analysis, radio communication, and emergency procedures

  • Takeoffs, landings, flight maneuvers, and cross-country navigation

  • Ground school topics including FAA regulations, aerodynamics, and flight planning

The DETAILS

  • The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours to qualify for a Private Pilot License, but most students take between 55 and 70 hours to feel fully confident and prepared for the checkride.

    How long that takes depends on your schedule and how often you fly:

    • 3–6 months if you fly 2–3 times per week

    • 6–12 months if you fly once a week or less

    We’ll work with you to build a training schedule that fits your life and helps you progress efficiently. Consistency is key—flying more often usually means faster progress and fewer hours overall.

  • The total cost depends on how many hours it takes you to finish—but here’s a general breakdown to help you estimate:

    • Aircraft Rental (Cessna R172K): $175/hour

    • Flight & Ground Instruction: $65/hour

    Most students take 55–70 flight hours to complete their training. Based on a 65-hour average, here’s what that might look like:

    Estimated Total Cost:
    - Aircraft Rental (65 hrs x $175): $11,375
    - Instruction (65 hrs x $65): $4,225
    - Books, materials, exam fees, etc.: ~$1,000–$2,000

    Estimated Total: $16,000–$18,000

    We believe in full transparency—no hidden fees, no surprise charges. You'll pay as you go, and we’ll help you track your progress and spending every step of the way.

  • You’ll train in our Cessna R172K. With a powerful 195-horsepower engine and modern glass cockpit avionics, it’s an ideal platform for both new students and advanced training.

    Equipped with Garmin GTN 750 and dual GI 275s, it’s fully IFR-capable and cross-country ready—perfect for learning in real-world conditions with confidence and style.

    VIEW AIRCRAFT >

Ready to take the controls?