This is a list of some frequently asked questions about earning a pilot’s license…

How long does it take to get a pilot’s license?

That depends on you. At a minimum, you need 40 hours of flight time to become a private pilot, most people finish closer to 60 or 70 hours, especially in the airspace near Washington D.C. That said, you have more control over where you fall in that time range than you may realize — there are lots of ways to reduce the training time (and cost) of earning your private pilot certificate.

How much does it cost to get a pilot’s license?

Just like training times, the cost of earning a pilot’s license fall in a wide range. If you’re budget conscious, there’s plenty you can do to make sure that you fall on the low-end of that range. As a general rule, $9,000 to $12,000 is typically what it costs for someone with no flying experience to earn their private pilot certificate in our part of the country. Check back for a more detailed cost breakdown…

Do I need to own a plane to use my license?

No. Most pilots continue to rent planes after they earn their certificates. Even if you decide you want to own an airplane down the road, you don’t have to buy the whole thing — there are plenty of flying clubs and partnerships in the area that are designed to split the costs of ownership among several or many members.

Is flying safe?

Yes. In fact, here’s the FAA’s official answer: “A well-built and well-maintained aircraft flown by a competent and prudent pilot is as safe or safer than many other forms of transportation.”

The fact of the matter is that the vast majority of pilots will never experience a real emergency — but all train for them.

When can I start?

Right away! Contact me to set up a tour of our facility and airplanes, or to schedule a demo flight. You’ll get to take the controls from your very first flight, and every minute we fly together counts towards the time required to earn your pilot certificate.

What’s the test like to become a pilot?

There are actually three different tests to earn your private pilot certificate. First, you’ll take a written exam at a nearby testing center. This 60-question multiple choice test covers what you’ll learn during ground school, and can be taken relatively early in your training.

Then, when you’re ready to earn your certificate, you’ll take your checkride, which is made up of an oral test and a flight test. It may sound like a lot, but by the time we schedule the checkride, you’ll be 100% ready for it.

Do you carry any insurance?

Yes — I have a $1 million liability insurance policy for flight instruction. Additionally, you’re covered by 1World Aero’s insurance when you rent from them on solo flights.