Introductory Flight Lesson

Introductory Flight Lesson

Ready for takeoff?

The Minot Aero Center offers a 30-minute Introductory Flight starting at just $99!

       Your instructor will:

• Instruct you on how the airplane flies

• Let you handle the controls and fly the airplane

There is no experience necessary!

No age requirement!

Flight time can be logged and used toward meeting the requirements of the Private Pilot Certificate.

For people who are already serious about pursuing an FAA Private Pilot Certificate,

we recommend starting with a 1-hour lesson.

Gift Certificates Available!

Our Flight Instructors

You can also give us a call:  701.852.4092

Financing

There are several sources of financing available for flight training. Here are some recommendations for you:

Pilot Financing Loans

• Pilot Finance Inc.
• AOPA Flight Training Finance
• Personal Bank Loan

Scholarships

• AOPA Scholarships
• Farstad Foundation
• Ninety-Nines

Private Pilot Requirements

Private Pilot Eligibility Requirements: General

To be eligible for a private pilot certificate, a person must:

• Be 16 years of age to solo
• Be 17 years of age for pilot certificate
• Pass the FAA 3rd class medical
• Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language

Private Pilot Steps:

• Attend a ground school, online, or self-study
• Complete a minimum of 40 flight hours
• Pass FAA private written exam
• Pass the check ride

Private Pilot Privileges:

• Fly day or night
• Carry passengers (not for hire)
• Fly in visual flight rules (VFR) conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I train before 16 years of age? 

There is no minimum age to begin flight training for your private pilot certificate. You can begin training as early as 15 years of age, but you must be at least 16 years of age to solo.

How long will my private pilot training take to complete?

The length of time to complete your private pilot training varies. Most students fly on average of 2-3 times a week. At this pace you could receive your certificate in about 3 to 6 months.

The following times are the FAA minimum requirements: 40 flight hours total; 20 dual hours; 3 hours cross country; 3 night hours; 10 solo hours; 5 hours solo cross country.

Instrument Rating Requirements

Instrument Rating Requirements: General

A person who applies for an instrument rating must:

• Be at least 17 years of age
• Hold a FAA private pilot certificate
• Pass a FAA 3rd class medical
• Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language

Instrument Rating Steps:

• Minimum of 40 hours in actual instrument conditions (in the clouds)
• Pass FFA instrument written exam
• Pass the check ride

Instrument Rating Privileges:

• Fly in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) conditions
• Receive air traffic control guidance along your entire flight
• Receive priority landings

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need an instrument rating?

You need an instrument rating to be more proficient, competent, and confident pilot. Your instrument rating will increase your safety as you will be prepared to handle any change in weather conditions.

How long does it take to earn your instrument rating?

The length of time to earn your instrument rating varies. You can receive your instrument rating in as little as 30 days if you fly every day. If you fly 2-3 times a week, you can receive your instrument rating in about 3 to 6 months. (40 flight hours of actual or simulated IFR; 50 hours cross country PIC; Up to 10 hours in a FAA approved simulator)

What can I do with an instrument rating?

An instrument rating will allow you to fly in weather with lower visibility. Flying in IFR weather with a flight plan will often give you priority to land at busy airports. 

Commercial pilot Requirements

Commercial Pilot Eligibility Requirements: General FAR 61.123

To be eligible for a commercial pilot certificate, a person must:

• Be 18 years of age
• Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language
• Complete a minimum of 250 total flight hours
• Complete 100 hours Pilot in Command (PIC)
• Complete 50 hours cross country
• Complete 10 hours dual instruction

Specific arrangements need to be made to train in a complex (retractable gear) aircraft.

Student Resources

Here are several resources that will help you as a student:

• FAA Become a Pilot
• Foreign/U.S. Citizen Requirements
• Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA)
• Medxpress (Medical Exam)
• TSA Requirements for AOA Badge (Link Coming Soon)

Logs

• Navigation Log

Check Lists

• Weight and Balance
• Warrior Checklist
• Cessna 150F & 150K Checklist
• Cessna 172N Checklist