Private Pilot - Getting your Private Pilot's Certificate is one of the most memorable experiences in aviation. There isn't a pilot I've met that won't tell you about his or her first solo. To obtain the Private Pilot's Certificate the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires a minimum of 40 hours. Of these 40 hours, 20 must be with an instructor (dual), 10 must be solo (all by yourself) and the remaining 10 hours wherever you need it - solo or dual. The national average is 55 hours to complete the Private Pilot. There are four factors that greatly affect the number of hours to complete this certificate. They are (in order of importance):

1. Motivation - No matter how much natural ability you may have, you won't get your Private Pilot's certificate unless you're motivated to learn.
2. Time & Money - These two go together. If you don't have the time or money to commit then it will take you longer to obtain your ticket.
3. Natural Ability - This is the least important. Sure if you are a "good stick" then naturally it will be easier for you, however, time and time again I've seen students with very little ability learn to be competent and safe pilots.

The reason time and money is number two is because of the proficiency needed to advance from one lesson to another. If you are only able to fly once a month due to your job or funds, then it will take you longer to obtain your ticket....and it will also cost you more in the long run. I recommend flying two or more times a week to maintain the level of proficiency to move through the course. If you are not flying frequently enough then you will be re-learning previous lessons when you go up with your flight instructor (CFI).

 

OK now let's break down the cost:

I will use the national average of 55 hours (10 solo and 45 dual). It is always better to be conservative when figuring the expenses for your flying so that you're pleasantly surprised when you end up spending less....and you can go buy that headset you've been drooling over.

ITEM	QTY	EST. COST	TOTAL
Aircraft Rental - Cessna 172	55hrs	$75/hr.	$4125
Flight Instruction	45hrs	$35/hr.	$1575
3rd Class Medical	1	$75	$75
FAA Written Exam	1	$75	$75
Books and supplies*		$100	$100
Ground School	1	$100	$100
Practical Test with FAA Designated Examiner	1	$300	$300
		TOTAL:	$6350

This is a rather conservative estimate, however you could spend much more if you decide to buy your own headset or a library of aviation related books.

 

If you would like any additional information please send me an e-mail and I'll respond asap.

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