How long will it take me to learn how to fly?
The FAA requires at least 40 hours of training time (20 with your instructor and
10 by yourself), but the national average is more like 65 hours. Your instructor
will probably recommend that you fly two or three times a week, an hour at a
time, so it will take you about three to six months to get your license. Flying
one or two time a week usually take six months to a year depending on skill.
How much will it cost?
The cost of learning to fly varies according to location. A good estimate is
$7000 to $10000.
What are the steps in learning to fly?
Once you begin flying lessons, you work toward your first solo, solo to the
practice area, cross-country flying, night flying and finally, your flight exam.
What does a first solo consist of?
A pre-solo written test is required prior to first solo. When your instructor
decides you are ready, he will ask for your medical/student license, sign the
back, and get out of the airplane. Then you're off! On first solo you're
instructed to make three take-offs and (obviously) three landings.
When can I solo?
You will probably get to make your first solo flight after about 15 hours of
training (time varies greatly from student to student). Your instructor will
decide when you're ready.
What is ground school?
Ground school is classroom training, which covers aircraft operation and
systems, navigation, Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), weather, and other
subjects too complex to learn while you're up there actually flying around.
When can I take my friends flying?
Some instructors may allow you to bring a friend along for a supervised training
flight, but don't count on it. The instructor is responsible for the safety of
everyone on board the plane, and generally will avoid having passengers on
board. Until you get your license your friends will probably have to stay on the
ground and wave! But it doesn't hurt to ask.
What is the best time of year to learn to fly?
Each season has its advantages - summer provides long days; fall and winter
allow improved flight performance due to cool air; spring combines a little of
both advantages. So, whenever you get the urge to take flight, it's probably the
right time.
When can I fly at night?
Your training will include some night flying. After you get your license there
are some night restrictions.
How do I learn to fly in the clouds?
Once you've earned your private pilot license, you can start building your
"cross-country pilot in command" time, by the end of your instrument
training you must have 50hrs cross country pilot in command time. When you have
logged close to 50 hours, you can begin instrument flying lessons. In order to
get your instrument rating you have to pass another written test and another
flight test.
What kind of airplane will I learn in?
This will vary by flight school, but special training aircraft are made by
Beechcraft, Cessna and Piper. Alexandria uses Cessna Training aircraft (C-152s,
C-172s and C172rg).
What are the physical/medical requirements for flying?
Before your first solo, you have to pass a medical exam given by an FAA-approved
physician. There are certain conditions that might prevent you from passing this
exam, such as high blood pressure or severe vision problems. If you're in doubt
about your physical eligibility, it would be wise to check it out before
investing in flight lessons.