What kind of jobs
are out there for pilots?
Visit our Career Paths page to
find out what's hot in the industry.
What is a Private Pilot Certificate?
Much like a standard driver's license, a Private Pilot Certificate
enables you to fly an airplane and carry passengers wherever you want.
The only restriction is that it may not be done for compensation or hire,
such as working as a pilot for a company or individual.
What is a Commercial Pilot Certificate?
If a Private Pilot License is a personal driver's license, the
Commercial Pilot Certificate is more along the lines of a trucker's license,
allowing you to work for an individual or company as a professional pilot.
What are the FAA Requirements for Pilots?
The detailed requirements to obtain any pilot certificate are
listed in Federal Aviation Regulations Part 61 or Part 141 (for FAA-approved
Pilot Schools like Dunkirk Aviation Flight School). Below is a brief overview
of the basic requirements for a Private Pilot Certificate under
FAR Part 61: Certification: Pilots & Instructors:
- Be at least 17 years of age (16 to solo) and be able to read, speak,
write, and understand the English language.
- Pass a simple physical examination given by a designated Airman Medical
Examiner.
- Pass the FAA Private Pilot knowledge test consisting of 60 multiple
choice questions.
- Log at least 40 hours of flight time that includes:
- At least 20 hours of flight instruction from a Certificated Flight
Instructor.
- At least 10 hours of solo flight training.
- Comply with other applicable training requirements.
- Pass a Private Pilot practical test consisting of an oral ground
exam and a flight test.
Is it difficult to fly an aircraft?
The basics of it are relatively easy to acquire, but a more complete grasp
of the forces and technology at work will take time. As with learning
to drive, flying is a hands-on learning experience and we encourage our
students to take the controls right from the outset of their education.
How many hours of instruction will I need before I solo?
Every student is different and will learn at different speeds. Our instructors
will not allow you to solo until both you and they are confident in your
abilty to maintain complete control of the aircraft, use good judgment,
and perform certain maneuvers, such as safe takeoffs and landings
Is flying safe?
When common sense is used in conjunction with a well-maintained aircraft,
a well-trained pilot, and good situational awareness, flying is as safe
or safer than other forms of transportation.
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