Private Pilot
Private Pilot Requirements
Ground Training
- 17 Years of Age
- The ability to read, write, and speak fluently in English
- Third-class FAA medical certificate $75
- Receive ground training with an FAA certified instructor or complete a home study course to learn Federal Aviation Regulations that apply to the Private Pilot.
- Pass an FAA knowledge test with a score of 70% or better.
40 hrs of Flight Training
- 20 hours of flight training from an authorized flight instructor
- 10 hrs. Solo
- 10 hrs. X-Country
- FAA Flight Test
Private Pilot Expenses
Ground Training
- CFI ($40 × 40hrs) – $1600
- FAA Written Exam – $100*
Flight Training**
- 17.5 hrs. Dual – $1,575
- 2.5 hrs. Sim Dual – $148
- 10 hrs. Solo – $900
- 10 hrs. X-Country – $1800
Net Cost – $6,123
Additional Expenses
The stated hours are an approximation based on the average time required to complete course materials and may vary if more training is required.
Direct Payment to Medical designate and/or FAA designate. Expenses are not included in final estimate.
Prices based on 10% block discount
All prices subject to change
The Private Pilot Certificate (PPL) is like your Driver’s license. As a private pilot you can fly an airplane and carry passengers (friends, family, co-workers, etc) but not for compensation or hire. However, you can share the operating expenses with your passengers. The private pilot certificate is the first step for those interested in a career in aviation. This extensive training program will give students a solid foundation in aerodynamics, meteorology, and hands-on flight experience.
How long will it take to get my Private Pilot License?
Most people who dedicate their time to obtaining a pilot’s licensedo so within a 2 month period. If you have a regular job and can only dedicate a few hours a week, then it may take about four(4) to six(6) months to accomplish it.
Can I take a short flight first to see if I like it?
Absolutely, Wayman Aviation offers Discovery Flights which are about 30 minutes long. On such a flight, you will go out in the pilot’s seat with a certified flight instructor in the co-pilot’s seat. You will take-off from Opa-Locka Airport and fly down the coast line over South Beach, Port of Miami, and Key Biscayne. On your first flight you will learn to maintain the airplane in straight and level flight while enjoying the scenic coast line of Miami Beach.
When do courses start?
Flight training is conducted on a one-on-one basis. Students and instructors are paired together according to compatible schedules; weekdays, weekends, mornings, or evenings. Private Pilot ground courses are on-going and generally begin the first Monday of every month. The ground course is where you learn all the basics such as Aerodynamics, FAA Regulations, Meteorology and Navigation. This course is a minimum of 40 hours. Additional training is available at an hourly rate. Ground school classes are usually 2 to 6 students in size guaranteeing that receive plenty of special attention.
Do I have to pay for the course up front?
No, you can pay lesson by lesson as you progress. However, many students prefer to pay in advance. There is a 10% discount on flight time when purchased in blocks of 10 hours or more.
What will it cost?
The complete course is approximately $6,000, this includes the 10% discount for block time, as well as the written and practical tests but not the medical exam. A break down of the cost can be found in the left column. The costs above do not include additional flight hours or instruction that may be needed.
What other expenses will I encounter?
Students will also need current charts, and other materials such as headsets, checklists, and flight computers. Students can check the Pilot Shop for up-to-date prices.
Can I really get my License in the 40 hours mentioned above?
Yes, but it is not easy. In order to receive your license within 40 hours, there must be perfect weather and excellent cooperation between student and instructor. The average student earns their license in about 50 hours. Why? Because the FAA requires that instructors practice many maneuvers with the student that were not included in the 40 hours set by the FAA many decades ago.
