Why Learn to Fly?
Escape from the two-dimensional world. Flying takes you to a different world with new perspectives. Suddenly, distances shrink and your perspectives change. You start thinking of your world from above. Your senses are in tune to the world of flight, no longer limited by your cares, concerns, and duties on the ground.
Explore new places. Learning to fly frees you to explore the world – from 50 miles to 500 miles. The distance is your decision. Become a pilot and expand your horizons.
Experience a feeling of freedom and accomplishment. Learning to fly will transform your life. It immerses you in new sensations and allows you to conquer exciting challenges. It changes how you perceive yourself and what you know you can accomplish.
What will it cost?
No large up-front commitment. You can "pay as you go" and train as often or as little as you like.
Earning your initial and subsequent pilot certificates is affordable. Aircraft rent for $155.00 per hour when pre-paying a 10-hour block or $165.00/hr when paid hourly. Instruction time is separate at $50.00 per hour.
Our experienced instructors save you money by minimizing flight time needed to become a safe pilot through proven methods.
Pricing as low as $100/hr under certain conditions. Call for details.
How long will it take?
The minimum number of flight training hours for achieving a sport pilot certificate is 20 hours. Those hours include dual instruction, cross-country flying, and solo flights.
The number of days or weeks required is up to you. Set aside several days for immersive instruction, or spread lessons over weeks. Train as often or as little as you like to fit your budget and schedule.
What do I need to start?
For your first flight, just bring a primed eagerness for a fun, exhilarating experience! Aircraft and fuel are included.
- Proof of Citizenship: Needed to begin training (or FAA approval).
- Insurance: You should have non-owners (renters) aircraft insurance to protect yourself.
- Student Certificate: Required before flying solo. We can help you obtain this, or visit your local FSDO.
- Driver's License: A valid license is required before solos and certification.
Is flying safe?
Recreational flight is statistically among the safest outdoor motor sports. It falls well within the safety margins most people expect for recreational activity.
Flying as a sport pilot is potentially even safer than other general-aviation flying. Sport pilot activities entail daylight, favorable weather, good visibility, and light aircraft capable of low-speed flight, allowing you to focus on FUN instead of worry.
Basic Qualifications
The fundamental qualifications for becoming a sport pilot are quite simple, intended to open up the exciting world of recreational aviation to many more enthusiasts.
- At least 17 years of age
- Proof of citizenship to begin; valid state driver's license prior to solo & certification
- Proficient in the English language
- Able to affirm general good health, not using substances/medications that impede judgment or motor skills
Training Steps
Preparation for the written test
Dual instruction
Acquisition of a Student Sport Pilot Certificate
Solo flight training
The cross-country flight
The oral and practical test
Resources & FAA Rules
FAA's Sport Pilot Rule
The EAA provides a condensed version of the rule, reducing the original from 100 pages to 19, making viewing and printing much easier.
Read the Full Rule (PDF)Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions about becoming a sport pilot? The AOPA provides a comprehensive FAQ answering common inquiries.
View the AOPA FAQ