Voyager Flight Services - Private Pilot

Private pilot

This course is designed for the student who has little or no flight experience and wants to obtain a Private Pilot Certificate. A Private Pilot Certificate allows the holder to fly passengers but the holder cannot be paid for flying. This certificate is used mainly by people who wish to fly a personal helicopter for pleasure or as a business tool. It is also the first step towards obtaining Commercial or instructor certification.

Students entering this course must be at least 17 years of age and be fluent in English. Before solo flight the student must hold a third class medical certificate from a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved physician.

This course takes approximately 4 to 12 months, depending upon the frequency of training provided. This is based on a minimum of 40 hours dual flight training, 10 hours solo flight training and 35 hours ground training. The certificate is granted after passing an FAA oral and flight test.

*Also, it is unusual for students to complete their training during the FAA minimum requirements.

FAA minimum requirements

Obtain a third class medical certificate
Pass an FAA written examination
Obtain a minimum of 40 hours flight time, including:

20 hours minimum dual flight training
10 hours minimum solo flight Training

35 hours ground training
Pass an FAA oral and flight test

Course Costs

Based on FAA minimums
Hours     Type        $/Hour         COST
 30       Dual         $250         $7,500
 10       Solo         $225         $2,250
 35       Ground       $ 40         $1,400
                      Total        $11,150

Average Hours
Hours     Type        $/Hour         COST
 50       Dual         $250        $12,500
 10       Solo         $225        $ 2,250
 35       Ground       $40         $ 1,400
                      Total        $16,150

Additional Costs
Headset                        $350
Books and Supplies             $315
FAA Medical Examination        $ 65
Written Test                   $ 80
Oral and Flight Check          $400
                   Total     $1,210