Private Pilot
Privileges and Limitations
Most aviators begin their career in aviation with a private pilots license (PPL). A PPL allows you to fly almost anywhere in the world, carry passengers and fly in the nation's busiest airspace. A PPL provides tremendous freedom with a few limitations. You may not operate an airplane for hire and you cannot fly through clouds unless an instrument rating is obtained. A detailed list of Privileges and Limitations directly from the FAA website.
Requirements
- be at least 17 years old
- have a current FAA third-class medical certificate
- log at least 40 hours of flight
- have at least 20 hours of flight with an instructor
- have at least 10 hours of solo flight
- pass the FAA Private Pilot Airmen Knowledge written test
- pass a FAA Private Pilot flight exam
A detailed list of Requirements directly from the FAA website.
Cost
All training is billed on a per hour basis. All costs are based on the minimum requirement for a PPL.
- 40 hours aircraft rental $89/hr - $3560
- 25 hours dual instruction $40/hr - $1000
- Books, Pilot Supplies, Testing Fees - $700
- Flatirons Aero membership $30/mo - $90
- Total estimated cost for PPL - $5350
FAQ
How long will it take to obtain my PPL?
Obtaining can be accomplished in as little as a month, but for the average flier it takes a little longer. We reccommend flying at least twice a week to ensure a steady progression. Flying less leaves skills rusty and more time spent reviewing. Flying too much can be counter-productive as well. Time must be put aside to prepare and debrief for each lesson. Ideally, flying 3-4 times a week allows completion in about 3 months.
How long is my license good for?
Your PPL is good for life as long as you have a valid medical and meet the recent flight experience requirements. These require you obtain a Biennial Flight Review every two years. To carry passengers you must have made 3 take offs and landings within the past 90 days. A detailed list of Recent Flight Experience Requirements from the FAA website.
Current Weather
Partly Cloudy with Haze and 77 degrees F at Broomfield/Jeffco, CO
Winds are Southeast at 5 MPH. The pressure is 29.99" and the humidity is 44%. The heat index is 78. Last Updated on Aug 20, 11:50 am MDT.
Checkride News
Shane Fleming: Private Pilot 10/31/2007 Jay Claus: Instrument Rating 12/15/2007 Peter Haines: Private Pilot 12/21/2007 Madie Heidemann: Private Pilot 1/4/2008