Private Pilot Certificate

Licensed to Fly

Whether set on a career in aviation or flying for fun, our Part 61 training program can be customized to fit your schedule.

16 weeksDuration

80 hoursFlight time

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Program Requirements

In order to start on your Private Pilot Certificate, you’ll need to meet these requirements:

Be at least 16 years old to solo.
Be at least 17 years old to obtain a Private Pilot Certificate (PPL).
Be able to read, write, speak and understand English.
Be able to obtain at least a 3rd Class Medical Certificate.
Receive and log ground training from an authorized instructor.
Accumulate and log a specified amount of flight time from an authorized instructor.
Pass an FAA Written Knowledge Test.
Pass a Practical Test consisting of both an oral examination and a flight test during what is called a “checkride.”

Program Outline

Flight training consists of two main components – ground school and flight instruction. In ground school, students learn information that all pilots need to know, such as basic aerodynamics, FAA regulations, aircraft systems, navigation, weather avoidance, stall/spin awareness, and radio communications.

Flight instruction consists of three stages:

Flight instruction stages

01Pre-Solo & Flight ManeuversStudents learn the fundamentals of flying, including normal aircraft operating procedures, flight maneuvers, and how to handle basic emergencies. Once the instructor deems you safe, you will conduct your first solo flight.
02Cross-Country Flight & Night FlightYou will learn the skills required for planning and executing cross-country flights and be exposed to a variety of conditions, such as flying at night and in and out of different types of airports/airspace.
03Test Prep & CheckrideWe will help you put together everything you have learned and practice any weak areas to ensure that you are prepared and confident to successfully complete your FAA test and checkride, and apply for your Private Pilot License.

Your checkride

We set up your DPE

Your Private Pilot Certificate checkride is conducted by a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE): an experienced pilot authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to give the oral and practical flight tests for pilot certificates and ratings.

You don't have to find one. When your instructor signs you off as ready, Sierra Charlie Aviation arranges and schedules your DPE for you, so you can stay focused on your training.

Own the Skies

Getting your private pilot certificate is one of the best ways to start your career in aviation. Your Private Pilot Certificate will give you the freedom to start flying, whether for pleasure or to further your career aspirations. Once you’ve earned your certificate, you will probably want to take the next logical step – an Instrument Flight Rating.

Book a Discovery Flight

Get ready for an exciting life in the skies

Flying with Sierra Charlie Aviation

Full preparation for a career in aviation

Customized support from Certified Flight Instructors

More in-the-sky time than other flight schools