For All Flight Training Students
Frequently Asked Questions
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Questions and answers for AOA and most other flight school students and instructors.
Is there a program for children?
Academy of Aviation has gotten many requests on social media and in person about youth programs that introduce kids and younger aviators to the world of flight training. We've put together three packages in response to this overwhelming demand, and are proud to present these options. Kids will get a real training opportunity, with a real logbook that they can carry with them through their adult flight training courses, should they embark on further pilot training when they get older. Visit our Youth Programs page for prices and information.
Is Academy of Aviation hiring?
Academy of Aviation posts job openings on our Employment page as well as social media. We are alweays looking for qualified CFIs and every now and then we also have administrative and mechanic types of jobs available. Visit our Employment page now!
Why a Cessna Pilot Center (CPC)?
CPC sets the highest standard for flight training, whether on the ground, in the classroom or in the sky. Cessna is the most trusted aircraft manufacturer out there.
What is considered a full time career student and how many days should I train per week?
Full time Career Pilots should expect a minimum of 6 hours of flight or simulator per week.
How long do individual courses or programs take to complete?
It will depends on your availability. The hours quoted are actual flight/sim hours. If you're available 3 days per week, our reservations are for 2 hour blocks of training. You can anticipate 6 hours per week. If your quote says 65 hours for your PPL, you're looking at finishing in 11 weeks. In addition to those flight/sim hours, you also have ground training to complete. If you attend a classroom setting, expect 2-3 weeks, depending on the progress of the class as a whole. If you are utilizing our online ground school, you will be assigned stages and phases in parallel with your training schedule to pair the theory you are learning with the physical skill.
Below is a list of average completion times:
From Zero Time - 12 months
From Private- 8 months
• Private Pilot - usually less than 4 months
• Instrument - usually less than 3 months
• Commercial Single - usually less than 2 months
• Multi Engine Add On - usually less than 1 month
• CFI - 1 month
• CFII - usually less than 1 month
• MEI - usually less than 1 month
What documents are required to start a flight training program?
• Third Class Medical
• Passport or Birth Certificate
• Government Photo ID such as a Driver License
• Aircraft Renters Insurance
How do I get a FAA Medical and what class do I need?
You need at least a 3rd Class Medical to start training.
1- Find an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). You can use the FAA Designee Program to find an AME.
2- Fill out FAA Form 8500-8 application prior to Exam Day. You can use FAA MedXPress to complete your application.
3- Send a copy to your AME.
Aircraft Renter Insurance Requirements:
We recommend Avemco Aircraft Insurance Company. Mention AOA to receive a discount.
Minimums required for Academy of Aviation:
• Each Person - $25,000
• Property Damage - $250,000
• Each Accident - $250,000
• Aircraft Damage Liability - $30,000
How do I Prepare for my first day?
Guided Independent Study Required Before Class Date:
"Phase 1" must be completed of your online Cessna Pilot School for your prospective course. You should also be familiar with the Maneuver Manual and Safety Procedures & Practice.
What extra gear do I need?
Headset
Kneeboard
Flashlight with red light capability
View Limiting Device
iPad
What Aircraft are available for training?
Cessna 172SP-G1000
Cessna 152
DA42-L360
What Flight Simulators are available?
Redbird MCX (All AOA Locations)
Redbird TD (AOA Farmingdale)
What are the requirements to obtain my Private Pilot Certificate?
• Be at least 17 years of age.
• Be able to read, write, and converse fluently in English.
• Obtain at least a third-class FAA medical certificate.
• Receive and log ground training from an authorized instructor or complete a home-study course.
• Pass a knowledge test with a score of 70% or better.
• Accumulate appropriate flight experience.
• Receive a total of 40 hr. of flight instruction and solo flight time and demonstrate skill.
• Successfully complete a practical (flight) test given as a final exam by an FAA inspector or designated pilot examiner and conducted as specified in the FAA's Private Pilot Practical Test Standards.
What is a CFI?
A CFI is a Certified Flight Instructor, who will be responsible for training student pilots to ACS/PTS Standards.
Can I get a Job with AOA?
Academy of Aviation seeks to assist all vocational students with career placement, and as such, tries to hire flight instructors from our own graduating classes. Any students who have had an incident, accident or disciplinary action during their courses may forfeit this opportunity.
The Academy maintains relationships with regional airlines, charter operators and military recruiters. The Academy also seeks to hire CFIs internally, and actively considers top instructors to fly for our own charter operation.
What are some ways to build my hours?
One of our favorite resources, and an article that dives into alternative aviation choices can be found here:
Pilot Jobs That Help You Build Flight Time
What ratings do I need to get to the airlines?
You will need to obtain your Airline Transport Pilot certificate (ATP). In order to qualify for your ATP certificate, you will need to meet the following FAA requirements:
• Be at least 23 years old.
• Have a valid drivers license.
• Pass all tests, exams and flight exams.
• Log more than 1500 hours of flight time (U.S.) in various weather conditions and in numerous types of aircraft.
• Pass the IR courses and ground school courses.
• Pass all medical and eye exams and be of sound body and mind.
• For more of a breakdown on Requirements, visit FAR- 61.153