Jim's Aviation

Professional Flight Training

And Pilot Service

(785)969-5319

Private Pilot

Most pilots start their training by earning a Private Pilot Certificate.   You will learn basic piloting skills and how to safely operate an aircraft in the National Airspace System.  The FAA requires a student pilot to receive at least 40 hours of flight training before receiving a private Pilot certificate.  This time includes flight time with an authorized instructor and solo flight time which is supervised by an authorized instructor.

Private Pilot training requirement are:

1. Must receive and log ground training from an authorized instructor, or complete a home study coarse on the required aeronautical knowledge areas.
2. Pass a written exam on the aeronautical knowledge areas.
3. Receive 20 hours of duel flight instruction:
   • Flight training on required areas of operation.
   • 3 hours of x-country flight training.
   • 3 hours of night flight training.
   • 3 Hours of instrument flight training.
   • 3 hours of flight training within 60 days of the practical test.
4. 10 hours of solo flight time:
   • 5 hours of solo x-country flight time.
   • 3 solo Take-offs and Landings to a full stop at a control towered airport.
5. Pass a practical flight test with an authorized FAA examiner.

Training Cost

The cost of training will depend on the amount of instruction you will need to obtain the skills required to operate an aircraft safely.  The FAA sets the minimums, but most pilots require more then the minimums to complete the training.  Another factor of cost is the time the student dedicates to training.   If you start your training and then stop, this can increase your cost.   You will get rusty and forget many skills which will require repeat training. The best way to lower your training cost is to purchase one of Jim's training programs.

Aircraft For Training

The most expensive part of flight training is the cost of the aircraft.   This can be managed by picking the right aircraft for training.   Most students rent a single engine aircraft because they are great primary training aircraft and are less expensive to rent.  Each student pilot has different needs and wants so it is best to consult your instructor to help determine the best aircraft for your training.   Some students may have their own aircraft and the flight instruction can be accomplished with it.

Here is an example of what it could cost for a Private Pilot Certificate