LEARN TO FLY

   Learning to fly is an experience that demands dedication and effort, yet yields a lifetime of benefits. Getting a PRIVATE PILOT LICENSE may be the first step toward an aviation career, open business opportunities, or may be just for fun. Although there are many reasons to learn to fly, there is only one way to begin.

BECOMING A STUDENT PILOT

 All pilots begin as student pilots. Student pilots must be at least 16 years old, and the minimum age to obtain your private pilot license is 17. To be eligible, you must obtain a flight physical examination by a physician designated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The airport can help you find the designated physician in your area. A document will be issued to you at the time of the physical examination which will serve two purposes. Your MEDICAL CERTIFICATE is one purpose which will be valid for either two years or three years depending on your age at the time of your physical exam. Your STUDENT PILOT CERTIFICATE is the other purpose. This is valid for two years or until you recieve your PRIVATE PILOT LICENSE, whichever comes first. The STUDENT PILOT CERTIFICATE is required prior to soloing the aircraft, but is not needed to begin flight training. Shortly after you begin flight training you should obtain your flight physical. 

FLIGHT TRAINING


   To begin flight training, all that is required is to schedule a flight lesson with a flight instructor. At this point, no prior experience is needed. The first thing that your instructor will show you is how to inspect the aircraft to detemine that it is ready for safe flight. During this time you will become familiar with the basic aircraft components, flight instruments, controls, and how to use check lists to ensure that all tasks are completed. Under the careful guidance of your instructor, you will start the engine, taxi to the runway, and make your first


"hands-on" takeoff! 

SOLOING

 When you reach the level of proficiency where you can demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to control the aircraft safely, your instructor will supervise your first solo--you will be in the aircraft and at the controls by yourself. This will be a great milestone in your training. The next several hours of your flight training will expose you to different flight conditions. This will include flying at night, taking off and landing in cross-winds, emergency procedures, and cross country flights to other airports. This phase of training will focus on building the flight time experience requirements for certification.

THE KNOWLEDGE TEST

   The FAA requires you to take and pass a knowledge test, which is administered on a computer. This can be done any time during your training but must be completed before taking your check flight for your license There are two common ways of preparing for the test. One is by a FAA approved home study course. This is a good method of study for people who have hectic schedules, and cannot commit to a routine study time. The home study course materials can be purchased at the airport. The second is by taking a ground school class. Contact Jacksonville Airport for a ground instructor referral, or contact Lincoln Land Community College, Springfield for class schedules. 

BECOMING A PRIVATE PILOT

 When you have completed all of the required flight time, and have successfully completed the knowledge test, you will demonstrate your aviation knowledge and skills to a Flight Examiner. The first part of the exam will be an oral test, the second will be a flight test. When the examiner is satisfied that you have the proper knowledge and can perform all flight operations safely, he or she will issue you a license certifying you as a PRIVATE PILOT ! Consistant flight training twice a week or more will ensure attaining your license in minimum amount of time

An estimated cost analysis of obtaining your license


 

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