Your Roadmap to Becoming an FAA Licensed Pilot
Your initial certification is the Private Pilot. The Private Pilot Certificate is the gateway to aviation for recreational pilots as well as for aspiring career pilots. Private Pilot training comprises the majority of training that we do at Solberg. Quite simply, it’s what we do best. With a Private Pilot Certificate, you will be able to fly during both day and night as long as you remain clear of clouds while operating under visual flight rules (VFR). You will be able to take your friends and family for rides and trips. Imagine the feeling of flying over a congested roadway on your way to a beach weekend! A Private Pilot is limited, however, because he or she may not be compensated for their flying. If you desire the ability to fly in inclement weather under instrument flight rules (IFR) or to be compensated for your flying, Solberg also offers training towards both your Instrument Rating and Commercial Pilot Certificate. These are often the next step after a new pilot earns the Private. Solberg Aviation Co., Inc. trains in reliable Cessna aircraft as utilizes as Cessna’s methods and curriculum.<a href=”http://www.solbergairport.com/CurrentRates.pdf”>Click Here for Our Current Rates!</a>
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone take an introductory flight lesson?
YES! No experience is necessary–come on out for a flight with us! Bring your friends!
What can I do with a Private Pilot Certificate?
You can fly anywhere under visual flight rules (VFR). This simply means that you will be navigating and controlling the aircraft using visual references outside the plane. Imagine the feeling when you pull up to your own plane, load your family or friends, and fly over all the traffic as you head to vacation. That is the freedom you can plan on when you have your Private Pilot Certificate. Don’t wait–schedule your introductory flight lesson and get started now!
Do you offer gift certificates?
YES! Introductory flight lessons and scenic airplane rides make great gifts for people of all ages. Check out our online store to get started, or call (908) 534-4000.
Is there a minimum or maximum age to take flying lessons?
Nope! Anyone can take lessons and we’ve had both young and less young. The only requirement is that the pilot must be 16 years old to solo and 17 years old to earn the Private Pilot Certificate.
Are there any physical requirements?
Pilots must be able to obtain an FAA Third Class Medical Certificate before they are able to fly solo.
What type of airplanes do you use for training?
Solberg primarily trains using Cessna Aircraft using their curriculum. We have a fleet that consists of Cessna 152’s 172, and 162 Skycatcher. They are maintained above FAA required standards. Click here to see them!
How long will it take to complete my training?
The Private Pilot Certificate can take as little as a month or two, or as long as years. it really depends how often you are able to take lessons and how much time you can devote to your ground training. We have found that if you fly three times per week, it will be a couple months. If you can only devote one flight per week, it will take closer to the year. The certificate is good forever, so even if it takes two years, you never lose it!
What are the requirements for earning a Private Pilot Certificate?
- Be at least 17 years old (but you can start training at any age!)
- Be able to read, speak, write and understand the English language
- Obtain at least a third class medical certificate from an Aviation Medical Examiner
- Pass an FAA Knowledge test, receive an endorsement from an FAA Certified Flight Instructor, and possess the aeronautical experience below:
- 40 hours total flight time
- 20 hours dual instruction with an authorized instructor
- 10 hours solo flight
How much will it cost to earn my Private Pilot Certificate?
Total costs will vary and some schools will estimate based on the FAA minimum requirements. These are not realistic for most people. Our average is around 60 hours total flight time.
- Flight Instruction ………………………….. 50 hours @ $59.95/hr = $2997.50
- Aircraft Rental, Cessna 152 ………. 60 hours @ $129.95/hr = $7797.00
- Ground Instruction ……………………….. 20 hours @ $59.95/hr = $1199.00
- FAA Medical Exam ……………………………………………………………… $200.00
- Cessna Private Pilot Kit ……………………………………………………….. $364.00
- FAA Knowledge Test ……………………………………………………………. $150.00
- Checkride Examiner Fee ………………………………………………………. $700.00
TOTAL ESTIMATE = $13,407.50