Learn To Fly: Private Pilot

Private Pilot Training Overview

You enjoy setting your own hours. You’re ready to explore that wide world and won’t let a little darkness stop you. Experience the skies like never before. As a Private Pilot, you’ll visit a realm that requires a metal suit to survive.

You want to share your heady experiences with a crew of fellow aviators whose hearts are alight for taxi lights. Your idea of a perfect morning involves clouds, turbulence, and a little bit of g-force. Forget the caffeine fix — you wake up with jet fuel in your veins and sectionals in your soul.

Sound familiar? You just might find that a Private Pilot Certificate will unlock your truest self.

After you’ve had your TOP GUN Experience, the Private Pilot training sequence is divided into four stages:

  • Stage 1: Pre-Solo Flight Training
  • Stage 2: Stage Check + First Solo Flight
  • Stage 3: Dual + Solo Cross Country Flight Training
  • Stage 4: Test Prep + Practical Examination

Prior to solo, students will be required to take a written exam administered by their flight instructor. Before you are eligible to take your FAA Check Ride, you must also pass the FAA Private Pilot Airman Knowledge Written Exam.

The Joy (and Practicality) of Flight

  • Unparalleled freedom to see the world
  • Peaceful morning sunrises and breathtaking sunsets
  • Experience the thrill and magic of the aircraft under your control
  • Travel on your own schedule
  • Connect with family and friends
  • Open to individuals of all ages and backgrounds
  • Tremendous sense of accomplishment
  • It’s rewarding and fun!

FAA Requirements to Receive a Private Pilot License

Age Requirements

Minimum Age To Begin Training

14

Minimum Age To Solo an Aircraft

16

Minimum Age To Complete Training

17

Other Requirements

Medical Certificate

Must possess an FAA Third Class Medical Certificate Issued by an Aeromedical Examiner

Tests

  • Pass an FAA Written Knowledge Exam
  • Pass required FAA practical flight test

Minimum Hours for a Private Pilot Certificate: 40*

Minimum Hours of Training: 20

Includes:
  • 3 Hours of Cross Country
  • 3 Hours Instrument Training (Hood Time)
  • 3 Hours Night Flight

Minimum Hours as a Solo Pilot: 10

Includes:
  • 5 Hours of Solo Cross Country
  • 1 Solo-Cross Country of at least 150 nautical miles
  • 3 Take-offs and Landings at a Controlled Field

Mixed Hours: 10

Includes:
  • 7 Hours of Dual or Solo Flight
  • 3 Hours Dual Test Prep (Required Before Practical Exam)

*The FAA tracks national average time to completion. According to these records, most students achieve their Private Pilot Certificates with 60 – 75 hours of in-aircraft training.

Note: Completion of TOP GUN program prior to admission to Private Pilot Certificate track is required for all new students.

Privileges of a Private Pilot License

Airspace

  • Cross-country flying anywhere in or outside of the U.S.
  • Fly in Class B, C, D, E and G airspace.
  • Fly in Class A airspace with additional training and an Instrument Rating.

Passengers

  • Fly solo or with multiple passengers.
  • Share expenses with passengers such as fuel, oil, airport fees, and aircraft rental.

Visibility

  • Fly day or night using visual flight rules (VFR).
  • Three statute miles visibility are required except in uncontrolled airspace.

Aircraft

  • Operate as pilot in command of any qualified aircraft.
  • Tailwheel, seaplane, complex and high performance aircraft greater than 200hp optional with additional training and endorsements.

Altitude

  • Fly up to 17,999 feet above mean sea level (MSL) without an Instrument Rating.
  • Fly between 18,000ft and 24,999ft with instrument rating.
  • Soar above 25,000ft with a high altitude endorsement.

Begin your journey today.

Complete our brief application for an opportunity to earn your wings at the nation’s award-winning flight training center.