WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR FLIGHT TRAINING

Enrolling in flight training is a big dream that many people have. Maybe you’re interested in pursuing a career as a pilot, or perhaps you want to take up flying as a hobby. Whatever the reason, flight training is an essential step for anyone who wants to learn how to fly, and it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for when you enroll in flight school. Our team at Monmouth Jet Center in NJ is here to let you know what you can expect. 

Ground School 

Ground school is one of the first steps you’ll take when you sign up for flight training. As the name indicates, you’ll remain on the ground for this phase of flight school, and you’ll study aviation-related topics including airport rules, FAA regulations, weather patterns, aircraft controls, aerodynamics, and more. Ground school prepares you for the written exams you’ll need to take to get your pilot’s license. 

How Long is Flight Training?

Flight training for a private pilot’s license requires 40 hours of flight time. This can take anywhere from six months to three years depending on how frequently you can fly and how much money you can put towards your flight lessons. While the average time is more likely between one to two years.

The stages of flight training include:

• Ground work 
• Student pilot training
• Passing all medical exams 
• Final check ride test and certification

The length of your flight training will depend on which type of pilot’s license you want to get: student, private, commercial, or airline transport. Each level has its own set of requirements, however most people can expect to spend one to three years in flight training regardless of which license you pursue. 

When Do You Get To Fly Solo?

Taking your first solo flight is a big deal and an important rite of passage for anyone enrolled in flight training. However, like anything that’s worth having, flying solo is something you have to earn. Before you can fly solo you must pass all of the written exams, log a specific number of in-flight hours with an instructor, prove you can deal with common malfunctions, and demonstrate that you can handle abnormal situations. Once your instructor gives you the go-ahead to fly solo, it’s an experience you’ll never forget. 

Approximate Cost 

Flying can be an expensive hobby, and the cost depends on which pilot’s license you want to earn. Here are some approximate costs:

• Sport pilot: $5,000
• Recreational pilot: $7,000
• Private pilot: $10,000
• Commercial pilot: $30,000

If you’re interested in taking a few flying lessons without commiting to an entire flight training program, there are many flight schools that allow you to take several lessons to see if it’s something you’d be interested in pursuing further. It’s a great way to discover if you’re ready to turn your dream of flying into a reality. 

Whether you’re ready to enroll in flight training or you’re still thinking it over, our team at Monmouth Jet Center is here to answer any questions and provide you with more information. Please feel free to contact us today, we look forward to teaching you how to fly.

This blog was originally published at https://monmouthjetcenter.com/what-to-expect-from-flight-training/