article thumbnail

Is It Hard To Be A Pilot? – The Surprising Truth

Pilot Institute

Flight Training: Part 61: Minimum 40 flight hours (including 20 dual, 10 solo). Part 141: Minimum 35 flight hours. Checkride: Pass an FAA written knowledge exam and practical flight test (checkride). It gives you the ability to fly in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). Pass a practical test (checkride).

article thumbnail

The Easy Way to Start Your Journey as a Pilot

Pilot Institute

Solo flight: Getting the experience to fly the aircraft on your own. Private Pilot License : Take a checkride to receive your license. Over time, you will take on more control until you are prepared for a solo flight. Flight planning : Calculating time, distance, and fuel needs. Checkride : $400-$600.

Insiders

Sign Up for our Newsletter

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Trending Sources

article thumbnail

Pilot Training in the USA: What It Costs in 2025

Pilot's Life Blog

The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours , but most students log 50 to 70 hours before they’re ready for the checkride. At Leopard Aviation , we offer hourly pricing so you pay only for actual flight time—no upfront bulk fees or surprises. Checkride fees : Range from $500–800 for a PPL exam. Ready for Takeoff?

article thumbnail

10 Apps Every Student Pilot Should Be Using in 2025

Inflight Pilot Training

Best Flight Calculator App 5. Sporty’s E6B Flight Computer Overview : A digital update of the classic flight computer, Sporty’s E6B Flight Computer delivers fast, accurate calculations without carrying a physical E6B or doing manual math in the air. Best Apps for Aviation Communications 6.

article thumbnail

Pilot’s aviation app directory – 2025 Edition

iPad Pilot News

ASA CX-3 Flight Computer Based on the ASA CX-3 Flight Computer for pilots, this E6B app allows you to perform routine aviation calculations on your iPhone or iPad. Improve your stick and rudder skills as a private pilot go beyond the instrument checkride with these advanced courses. and displays them in the app.

article thumbnail

Understanding Flight Training Costs: What Aspiring Pilots Need to Know

Pilot's Life Blog

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires at least 40 hours of flight time, though most students take around 50 to 70 hours to become proficient enough to pass the checkride. Key Components of PPL Training: The training includes both flight hours and ground school, covering aviation theory, flight maneuvers, and navigation.

article thumbnail

Flight School FAQs Made Easy: Answering Your Top Questions

Pilot Institute

Pass the checkride. Once your instructor confirms you’re ready, you’ll take the practical test (checkride) with an FAA examiner. Then, you will take the flight test, where you’ll demonstrate your ability to perform the required maneuvers and tasks in the cockpit. Flight Bag A sturdy flight bag keeps your gear organized.