The Options
There are two basic ways that the FAA has established for people to get their pilot's license. The two types are referred to by the section of the Federal Aviation Regulations that governs each. The two parts are Part 61 and Part 141. So, what's the difference?
The end result is the same. A pilot who goes through Part 61 has the same checkride and the same examiner as a pilot who goes through Part 141. The difference is how you get there.
Part 61 is by far the most flexible and easy way to train for your private pilot's certificate. The FAA says you need 40 hours total, 20 hours with an instructor, 10 hours solo, and a few other similar requirements, including the knowledge required to safely act as pilot in command. This leaves room to mold the training to each individual student, including small tweaks to the lessons in order to best teach the individual student. If you are looking for personal, quality instruction tailored to your learning style, Part 61 is the way to go.
Part 141 is a very rigid and structured learning environment. It does not offer a lot of flexibility, although it makes it easier for a student to fly with multiple instructors. If you are looking to spend $60,000 and go all the way through your multi-engine commercial certificate as fast as possible, this may be the direction you want to go. The minimum time the FAA has established for Part 141 schools to produce a private pilot is 35 hours.
While the FAA does set minimum total times, these are hardly indicators of what it will cost to get your private pilot certificate. The majority of pilots who fly semi-regularly to regularly take around 70 hours to get their certificate. Unfortunately, many less than honest companies advertise a price based on the FAA minimums. The truth is, at any school you will end up paying $8,000 and up, depending on how much time you take to get your license.
Call us today to book an Introductory flight, where we'll show you what its really like to fly! We will also cover the details of the program and answer any questions you may have.