Private Pilot
Whether you’re pursuing aviation recreationally or as the start of a career, this is the first certificate in your aviation journey. After earning your wings, you’re permitted to fly anywhere in the country during “visual” weather (day or night) and take friends and family along for the ride. Your private pilot certificate never expires as long as specific requirements are met.
Am I eligible?
There is no minimum age to receive and log training; however, you must be at least 16 years old to fly the aircraft “solo” and 17 years old to earn your certificate.
You must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.
You must be able to obtain at least a Third Class FAA Medical Certificate prior to your first “solo.”
This is a routine examination by an Aviation Medical Examiner and most people have no issues; however, you should discuss this with Daniel Durrand (or another certified instructor) before applying to avoid common pitfalls and unnecessary headaches.
You must be a United States citizen, or legally in the United States on a non-“F” or “M” visa.
Students in the United States on “F” or “M” visas have limited options for flight training and should obtain more information from Daniel Durrand (or another certified instructor).
How long will it take?
There is no definitive answer, as each student is different! Most students who are able to fly approximately 2 times a week and come to lessons prepared are able to earn their certificate in 6 - 9 months, though your dedication and preparation for each lesson can shorten (or lengthen) this timeline between 3-18 months.
You should dedicate 2 - 3 hours of study on the ground for every 1 flight hour.
Be cautious of any school or instructor that guarantees a specific timeline, since individual skill, time commitment, and external variables like weather and maintenance are all factors.
What are the requirements?
40 hours (minimum) of flight experience, meeting specific requirements outlined in §61.109(a) and the Private Pilot Airplane - Airman Certification Standards (ACS). The national average is approximately 75 hours of experience.
Pass an FAA written exam.
Pass an FAA checkride (combined oral and flight exam).
What will it cost?
The cost of your training is directly related to the length of your training, and the length of your training is closely related to your aptitude and time commitment. Be cautious of any school or instructor that guarantees a specific cost upfront!
Though I cannot guarantee any particular price, here are the major factors to estimate:
Online ground school: $300.
Flight Instruction: $85/hr × 30 hours (minimum) = $2,550.
Aircraft Rentals: $150/hr × 40 hours (minimum) = $6,000.
Pilot Supplies & Equipment: $550.
Exams: $1,400.
You won’t spend less than $11,000. However, the national average is approximately 75 hours of experience to successfully pass the final exam and most students spend 40 - 80% more than the legal minimum to achieve this outcome. I strongly encourage you to budget $15,000 - $20,000.
I can guarantee that I’ll keep you informed of your progress, emphasize areas of weakness and provide strategies to study effectively, and help you grow into a safe, competent pilot in the minimum time and cost possible.