Here is a summary of our Private Pilot course details.
Considering a career in aviation or exploring flight schools in Memphis, Collierville, Germantown, or nearby? Learn about our pilot programs and rental aircraft. We make flight training fun and efficient. With 30 years of experience, our programs combine best practices from civilian and military aviation. Our professional instructors ensure safety and use proven methods for success.
We prioritize your success with a proven track record of students achieving their goals.
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Federal regulations stipulate the following requirements:
Be at least 16 years old to solo.
Be at least 17 years old to obtain your Private Pilot License (PPL).
Read, speak and understand the English language.
Possess a student pilot certificate.
Hold at least a third-class medical certificate or BasicMed.
Study Assignments in our curriculum reference official FAA Handbooks and Manuals covering all knowledge areas for this course. However, online or in-house classes may be a better fit for your learning style and to supplement official materials. Discuss with your instructor options available that best meet your needs.
Our standard Private Pilot Course syllabus reflects 35 hours of ground instruction, 30 hours of dual and 10 solo hours in aircraft. If you have already completed portions of the ground instruction, we will work with you to review your current knowledge base and customize the course as needed.
Minimum of 40 hours of flight time including:
20 Hours Dual Instruction
3 Hours Dual Cross Country
3 Hours Instrument Flight Training
3 Hours Night Time Including 1 Cross Country Over 100nm Total Distance, 10 Night Landings
Pass a practical test consisting of an oral exam and a flying exam
Here are approximate items and costs associated with obtaining a Private Pilot Certificate. However, costs vary greatly due to individual needs, past experience and learning styles. We provide many free training resources throughout our syllabus because our goal is to make training as affordable and efficient as possible.
Private Pilot Kit: $250
The Private Pilot Kit contains supplies necessary for private pilot training: syllabus, private pilot manual, E6-B (flight computer), VFR plotter, small logbook, kneeboard, aircraft checklist and small student bag. (does not include pilot headset)
Medical: $175
3rd Class medical exam from an Aviation Medical Examiner.
FAA Knowledge Exam: $175
Multiple-choice exam administered on computer at nearby testing centers.
*Aircraft Rental: 40 Hrs Min / 55 Hrs Avg
Time varies greatly for each individual due to previous experience, preparation and training frequency. See our Aircraft page for available aircraft and rates.
*Flight Instruction: 30 Hrs Avg @ $60 hr
Dual instruction including flight training, preflight and postflight briefings. Time varies greatly for each individual due to previous experience, preparation and training frequency.
FAA Practical Exam – $750
Oral and flight evaluation with FAA Designated Examiner
40 Hours Of Flight Training To Include:
20 Hours Dual Instruction
10 Solo Hours
3 Cross Country Flight Hours
3 Hours Night Flying
3 Hours Exam Preparation
3 Hours Instrument Flight
Stage 1 introduces the fundamentals of flying. You will learn normal aircraft operating procedures, flight maneuvers airport procedures and how to handle basic emergencies.
Stage 2 builds on the fundamentals learned in Stage 1. You will be introduced to Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM) concepts such as resource management, task management and risk management in preparation for flying as Pilot in Command (PIC).
Stage 3 is when all solo flight operations occur. The flights of Stage 3 are designed to provide the student with the proficiency and solo requirements for the private pilot practical test. These flights are devoted to gaining experience and confidence in solo cross-country flight operations and reviewing all maneuvers within the syllabus to attain maximum pilot proficiency. Student’s proficiency and knowledge will be checked by a check instructor in preparation for the final exam.