Pilot Training Guide

This really depends on your availability, aptitude, and commitment. It can take anywhere from a few months to around a year. If you train everyday, we've seen students get their private certiticate in one to two months. If you're only able to dedicate a few days a week and train part time, expect to finish in 6 months to a year. Training less often means that you will retain less information in the short term, but over time the training gets solidified. Flight training is not a race and we need to make sure you are a safe and capable pilot. Enjoy the journey and the only person you should be comparing yourself with is yourself. A good pilot is always learning and training goes beyond and continues well after your private pilot certificate.

You can start training right away and there are no prerequisites to start. However to solo and then go on to get your pilot certificate, you must meet the following prerequisites:

• be at least 17 years old, but training can start earlier.
  You can solo at 16 years old
• be able to speak, read, and write English
• be able to obtain an FAA third class medical or higher

One must register on https://medxpress.faa.gov/medxpress/ to fill out the application. An instructor or staff member will make the medical appointment at one of the several local medical physicians we use.

You do NOT need a college degree to become a pilot as most major airlines no longer require it. However, having a college degree can make you more competitive in the job market if you are looking to make a career out of aviation.

A Private Pilot Certificate, also commonly known as a PPL (private pilot license), is one of the first certificates you obtain on your journey to becoming a licensed pilot. It allows you to be PIC (pilot in command) of an aircraft for personal and recreational purposes and also allows you to take passengers on board with you. With a PPL, you cannot be compensated for flying as that would require a commercial certificate.

Yes, after completing your Certified Flight Instructor Certificate you will be offered a guaranteed interview with our Chief Pilot. (All potential employees must be authorized to work in the United States). Being a CFI is a great way to build flight time, while also providing a very valuable service of teaching others how to fly and bringing more people into aviation.

No, all students should dress comfortably during their training sessions. We pride ourselves in being a relaxed family environment. While wearing uniform and brandishing epaulets is not required at Sun City Aviation, if you feel that you can train better wearing uniform, you are free to do so.

There may be half or full day sessions depending on the availability of both the student and instructor. Scheduling also depends on which portion of the curriculum the student is currently working on. However, the student will ultimately determine their own training schedule.

A student may pay for the entire course up front, in increments, or pay as you go with a credit card on file. We also accept cash, checks, Zelle, and wire transfers as we are flexible in allowing our students several options for funding their flight training. There are no minimum financial requirements or deposits