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Earn your private pilot’s certificate with us! Becoming a pilot is more accessible than you may think. As you train with us, we will help you achieve your aviation goals, provide answers for your questions, and guide you every step of the way! Our instructors are motivated and excited to help you learn.
A person who applies for an private pilot certificate must:
Embark on your journey to obtaining a Private Pilot’s Certificate with our comprehensive road map, guiding you through every step of the way.
Your instructor will take you for a short flight to introduce you to the airplane and airport. On this flight, your instructor will have you fly the airplane and start you on your path to becoming a pilot.
An FAA 3rd class medical certificate is required to attain your private pilot certificate.
Throughout your training you will study with an online course, self study, one on one with your instructor, or a combination of the three to prepare for the written and oral.
The FAA requires a minimum of 40 hours total flight time is required to achieve your private pilot cerificate. Of those 40 hours, you will need 20 hours with an instructor. You will also need 10 hours solo flight time of which 5 hours of cross country time. On average, most students take approximately 55 hours.
• Ground school studies
• Practice flights
• Prepare for solo flight
• Secure airport badge
Once you have achieved the knowledge of the principles of flight and the instructor feels you are competent in your skills, you will take your first solo flight!
Fly as much as possible and gain experience with dual and solo flights.
At any time throughout your training, your instructor will give you an endorsement to take your written test.
Once your instructor feels you are ready, they will give you an endorsement to take your checkride. The checkride will consist of both an oral and flight exam with an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE).
Once you get your pilot certificate…keep flying!
Your most frequently asked questions.
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
There is no minimum age to begin flight training for your private pilot certificate. You must be at least 16 years of age to solo.
Learn to fly with the Minot Aero Center’s 30-minute Introductory Flight starting at just $99! Embrace the thrill of aviation as our experienced instructors guide you through the essentials of flying an airplane. No prior experience is necessary, and there are no age requirements – anyone can join this unforgettable adventure.
In addition, your Introductory Flight can be logged toward fulfilling the requirements of the FAA Private Pilot Certificate. On this flight, your
instructor will have you fly the airplane and start you on your path to becoming a pilot. For Individuals committed to pursuing their pilot dreams, we recommend starting with a 1 – hour lesson. Give the gift of flight with our Gift Certificates and share the excitement of aviation with your loved ones!
