Question 1

What's the best way to get started?

Accepted Answer

We start by taking an introductory flight lesson.  This flight acts as a no-commitment, first lesson.  I will demonstrate how to prepare for a flight and operate the airplane systems.  I'll let you do as much flying as you want to do, including takeoff and in-flight, and even an assit in the landing.  At half the cost of a regular flight lesson, the introductory flight lesson will give you a taste of the fun and excitement of learning to fly.  Once you start, I'll ensure that your training is efficient, thorough, and fun.

Question 2

What are the requirements to become a private pilot?

Accepted Answer

Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English Language
Pass an FAA Third Class Medical exam
Complete a minimum of 40 hours of flight time (national average is 60 to 70 hours) that includes 30 hours with an instructor and 10 hours of solo flight
Complete an online ground training program
Pass the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Exam and the Practical Test

Question 3

How long will it take to earn my Private Pilot Certificate?

Accepted Answer

Training time is dependent upon you.  Your time, budget, and desire to learn are all key in determining the length of time and your success.  Legally you need a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, which can be accomplished in a month if you fly everyday.  If you fly two times a week you can ideally earn you license in five months or less.  Others take more time, even a year or more if they desire.  Because we live in the great state of Kansas, weather can also delay training but is an unavoidable factor of aviation.

Question 4

How often should I fly?

Accepted Answer

The more often you fly, the faster you'll earn your license.  Also, flying frequently avoids having to review previously learned skills that become "rusty" through lack of practice.  I recommend at least 2 to 3 lessons per week, but I understand people's busy schedules and a dedicated trainee can still be successful flying only once a week.

Question 5

What are the costs involved to become a pilot?

Accepted Answer

Flight training is an investment in your future.  The overall cost is spread out over time and there is no need to pay all in advance.  Click here for a breakdown on costs and more information on pricing.

Question 6

What can I do as a private pilot?

Accepted Answer

As the a private pilot, the sky isn't even the limit!  You'll be able to take your friends and family on a trip, maybe to just grab lunch in another town.  Meet other aviation enthusiasts at local fly-ins.  You can donate your skills and volunteer flying pups across the country to new homes.  Hungry for more? Continue the journey and add an advanced rating, like an instrument rating, or even a seaplane rating!

Question 7

What is a medical certificate?

Accepted Answer

For many pilots, possessing at least a third-class medical or BasicMed is required to obtain pilot a pilot certificate, including your Private Pilot Certificate, and Instrument Rating. The medical certificate must be obtained from an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

Prior to your medical exam, you will be required to complete the FAA MedXPress Application. This makes application information available to your AME for review prior to your medical examination. During your MedXPress application, you will be asked to select a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd Class Medical Certificate. Here's a breakdown of the different medical certificates to help you choose the correct medical certificate for your individual and specific aviation goals.

1st Class Medical Certificate
A first-class medical certificate is required in order to exercise Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) privileges. Essentially, anyone who wants to work for the airlines will need to pursue their first-class medical certificate.

2nd Class Medical Certificate
A second-class medical certificate is necessary for all other commercial privileges other than an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). For those looking to fly cargo or work as a corporate pilot, a second-class medical certificate is perfect for these types of aviation jobs.

3rd Class Medical Certificate
For any other reason to fly other than listed above, a third-class medical will be sufficient for your aviation flying needs. The third-class medical certificate is perfect for those who are simply looking to fly for fun. Some who also have an interest in becoming a flight instructor can exercise third-class medical privileges.

BasicMed
For those unable to obtain at least a third-class medical certificate may be able to earn their BasicMed medical clearance if you comply with the BasicMed requirements.
 
TALK WITH ME BEFORE YOU GO TO THE DOCTOR - to ensure that you won't be disqualified.  There are precautions that are best to take BEFORE starting the application.

Question 8

What airplane will we be flying?

Accepted Answer

We do primary training in my Cessna 150.  This airplane is a small and slow two-seater, with just enough room for me and you!  It is a great trainer airplane that is very cost efficient.

Question 9

Can I bring a friend to the lesson?

Accepted Answer

Technically, yes! You can never fly solo with a passenger until you earn your private pilot certificate, but if an instructor is with you, they are welcome to tag along.  HOWEVER.... my small airplane only fits 2 of us - you and me! Therefore, there isn't any more room to bring someone along with us.

Question 10

Will I have to study a lot?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will have to study.  If it was easy, everyone would be doing it.  I recommend an online home-study course that you can work at on your own pace while we are flying.  We will spend time in the classroom, but this allows you, the trainee, to save time and money by completeing a ground study on your own.

Question 11

How long does a lesson last?

Accepted Answer

Typically we will fly for 1 to 1.5 hours.  We will block out 2 hours to meet, this allows time to preflight as well as time to debrief after the flight.

Question 12

What do you have to do to keep your license?

Accepted Answer

Once you get your pilots license, you have it forever.  It never expires! every two years you must take a flight review with a qualified instructor to ensure that you are staying proficient.  This consists of one hour of ground instruction and one hour of flight instruction.

Question 13

Once I earn it, what can I do with my pilot certificate?"

Accepted Answer

The options are endless! Take local sightseeing flights with friends and family, travel farther for business or rectreation.   Build and fly your own aircraft or restore and fly antique/classic aircraft.  Join a flying club to connect with other aviation enthusiasts.  You can also support a growing number of flight organizations that support humanitarian causes, such disaster relief or transportation for non-critical medical treatment.

Question 14

This sounds like something I'd like to do! When can I start?

Accepted Answer

Call or text me at 402-413-1311, or fill out the form below to schedule your introductory flight.

Learning to fly will be one of the most enjoyable experiences of your life.  Training to become a pilot is a challenging but realistic goal.  Learning to fly can lead you to new social and career opportunities or even a new career path.  But most importantly, flying is FUN!  Come find out for yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions