Becoming a private pilot is a very enjoyable and rewarding experience. It allows you to rent aircraft and possibly own your own aircraft, fly with friends and family, and enjoy what the world looks from above, during day, or night! Often, a pilot’s first solo flight is one of the most memorable experiences of their entire life. From the day that you start training, to the day that you complete it, you’ll find yourself immersed in the journey of discovery and achievement.

The following requirements for a Private Pilot Certificate must be met:

• Must be at least able to read, write, and understand English.

• Must be at least 16 years old to Solo, and 17 years old to get your certificate.

• Must be a U.S. Citizen (If not, you must complete the TSA’s Flight Training Security Program).

Before you can earn a private pilot’s license, you must obtain a medical certificate from an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). The medical certificate ensures that you meet the physical and mental health standards required for flying. A medical certificate must be issued prior to your initial solo flight, as required by the FAA. ere are three types of medical certificates:

• First Class

  • Valid for 60 months if under 40 years old. Over 40 years old it is valid for 24 months

  • Required for Airline Transport Pilots

• Second Class

  • Valid for 60 months if under 40 years old. Over 40 years old it is valid for 24 months

  • Required for Commercial Pilots

• Third Class

  • Valid for 60 months if under 40 years old. Over 40 years old it is valid for 24 months

  • Required for Private Pilots and Student Pilots

After your first couple flight lesson’s, we’ll discuss this process together and find you an AME in the area to get you your medical certificate!

A Student Pilot Certificate is a foundational requirement for anyone beginning their journey into aviation. It allows you to practice and fly solo under the supervision of a flight instructor and is a stepping stone toward obtaining a private pilot’s license.

Why is it Required Before Solo Flight?

• Legal Requirement: Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) mandate that a student pilot must possess a valid student pilot certificate before flying solo.

• Safety Assurance: It ensures that you have the basic knowledge, skills, and medical fitness necessary to operate an aircraft safely without an instructor.

• Instructor Endorsement: Your instructor must endorse your certificate, confirming that you are prepared for solo flight, which provides an additional layer of safety and oversight.

The process of obtaining the Student Pilot certificate is completed by the student and the instructor using the FAA’s IACRA platform. Here, you’ll create an account, start an application, fill out the application, and review the application prior to signing it. After submitting it, your Flight Instructor will have to certify your identity and submit the application to the FAA for approval. Shortly after, you’ll receive your Student Pilot certificate to your mailing address! For the time being, you’ll also have access to paper-copy temporary certificate.

14 CFR Part 61 outlines the hour requirements to become a private pilot, which are as follows:

• 40 Hours Total Time in an Airplane

  • 20 Hours Dual (Flights with an authorized instructor)

  • 10 Hours Solo

  • 5 Hours Solo Cross Country

    • One Cross Country to an airport at least 50NM away

    • One Cross Country to three different airports, totaling at least 150NM

  • 3 Hours Night Time

  • 3 Hours Instrument Time

Although the FAA lists these minimum requirements, many Private Pilot students require more hours to compete their training. The length of training is dependent on a number of factors, such as:

• Individual Progression: Each student progresses at their own rate, some require more practice and time with certain items. Flying more frequently can help students gain proficiency and reduce the total hours needed during flight training.

• Financial Considerations: A higher frequency of lessons and consistent practice can lead to faster progress, however it requires a stronger financial commitment.

• Study and Preparation: Diligent study of aviation subjects can enhance understanding and reduce the need for repeated lessons. Preparing for lessons ahead of time and “chair-flying” can also be a cost-effective way to practice procedures and reduce actual flight time needed.

• Weather and Aircraft Availability: Poor weather can delay training and make it more difficult to fly frequently.

• Personal Schedule: Students with flexible schedules may find it easier to complete training quickly, while those with a limited schedule may find it more difficult to dedicate time.

Ultimately, the journey to becoming a private pilot is highly personalized. Your progress, financial situation, and dedication to studying and practicing will all play critical roles in determining the final cost and duration of your training. Plan wisely, fly often, and enjoy the rewarding experience of learning to fly!

Students are also required to study for and complete an FAA Knowledge Exam for their Private Pilot certificate. This process requires an endorsement from an instructor, as well as a scheduled appointment time at an approved testing center.

SK Flight Instruction is based out of Schilling Aviation Services in Salina, KS. We use two of their aircraft, rented directly out to the students, for flight training. Both aircraft are great for training and provide great learning environments. The aircraft rates are fixed to include fuel and insurance.

Basic Cost Breakdown

• Aircraft

  • $165/hour (1978 Piper Archer)

  • $160/hour (1972 Cessna Skyhawk)

• Instruction Rate

  • $50/hour

Cost Estimates

Minimum Training (40 Hours)

• Aircraft Rental Cost: 40 hours x $165/hour = $6,600

• Instruction Cost: 40 hours x $50/hour = $2,000

• Ground Training: 10 hours x $50/hour = $500

• Additional Fees (Check-ride, knowledge exam, medical exam, study materials): $1000

• Total Estimated Cost: $10,600

Average Training (60 Hours)

• Aircraft Rental Cost: 60 hours x $165/hour = $9,900

• Instruction Cost: 60 hours x $50/hour = $3,000

• Ground Training: 15 hours x $50/hour = $750

• Additional Fees (Check-ride, knowledge exam, medical exam, study materials): $1000

• Total Estimated Cost: $14,650

Extended Training (80 Hours)

• Aircraft Rental Cost: 80 hours x $165/hour = $13,200

• Instruction Cost: 80 hours x $50/hour = $4,000

• Ground Training: 20 hours x $50/hour = $1000

• Additional Fees (Check-ride, knowledge exam, medical exam, study materials): $1000

• Total Estimated Cost: $19,200

Cancellation Policy

Students are expected to show up on-time and prepared for each flight lesson. Students are required to cancel their flight within 24 hours of the block time, if necessary. There will be a $50 no-show/late cancellation policy incurred for each hour of the scheduled training. Exceptions may be made on a base-by-base case.