Becoming a Private Pilot

It's common to have the dream of being able to fly a private plane, without knowing what is actually required. In fact, many people assume that they won't be able to fulfill the requirements, before they ever look into them. However, obtaining your private pilot's license and flying a small private plane as a hobby may actually be surprisingly achievable. Individuals who have been looking for the perfect outdoor hobby may find that flying is just what they've always wanted, as it provides them with a challenging and fun way to spend free time. In addition, you'll be learning a skill that you can utilize for a lifetime. If you have the money to spend and are willing to devote the time to complete a licensing program, obtaining your private pilot's license doesn't have to be difficult. 

The specific guidelines to be a private pilot may vary depending on your locality, but they will be similar to the following: 

Age Requirements

You'll need to be 16 years old to fly solo, and you'll need to be 17 years old to test for a private pilot's license. In addition you'll need to be able to speak English fluently. 

Training Requirements

There are numerous training requirements to become a private pilot in the United States. You'll need to attend a ground school. You'll need to pass a medical clearance. You'll need at least 40 hours of in flight training with an instructor. You'll need to pass the final exam and the check ride. Once all of these milestones have been achieved, you'll be able to hold a private pilot's license and fly your own small airplane. 

Costs

An individual can expect to spend between $7-12,000 completing the training for a private pilot's license. This can be spread out over a few months or a year, depending on your individual situation. While this is a luxury expense, it's also well within the range of many other luxury hobbies such as motorcycling, luxury cars, and more. If you've always wanted to learn to fly, it may be time to consider a plan to start putting the money aside for those flying lessons. Once you have your pilot's license you can use it for years to come, so it's an investment that will pay for itself in enjoyment. 

If you enjoy traveling, active hobbies, and having an in demand skill, training for a private pilot's license may be just what you've been dreaming of. If so, reach out to your local aviation group or airport to learn how to get started, and make sure you're prepared with the best aviation gear on the market. Before you know it, you'll be taking off on your next adventure.