Earn Your Private Pilot Certificate (PPL) and Instrument Rating

Throughout your journey toward obtaining your PPL, you will encounter numerous significant "firsts"—your first flight, first radio communication, first solo flight and landing, and your first solo cross-country flight. Each of these milestones brings an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

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Your Private Pilot Certificate (PPL) and Instrument Rating: Price Comparison Chart

The prices below are derived from two sources: Academy of Aviation's price quoting based on our own student completion averages, and Part 141 minimum hours for course completion. Prices are separated by plane type: Cessna 152 and Cessna 172 G1000®. **You may finish your training under Part 141 minimums, but you should expect to realistically finish under AOA's average price.

Become a pilot with a flight training program built around safety, innovation and accessibility.

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WHAT WILL I LEARN?

Private Pilot Course from Start to Finish

*Flight Hours for the prices above are based on an average Academy of Aviation student's course completion time for each section:

• Simulator RedBird Dual w/ Instructor • up to 5 hours
• Flight Dual w/ Instructor • up to 55 hours
• Supervised Solo • up to 5 hours
• Pre-Post Instruction Briefing • up to 15 hours

Instrument Rating Course from Start to Finish

• Simulator RedBird Dual w/ Instructor • up to 14 hours
• Flight Dual w/ Instructor • up to 26 hours
• Pre-Post Instruction Briefing • up to 8 hours

We invite you to explore our Student Portal and download our full Course Catalog. There you will discover every detail about all of our programs:

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WHAT DO I NEED?

Private Pilot License Eligibility:

• Get started at any age but you must be 16 years old to fly solo
• Be 17 years of age to take your Private Pilot Course check ride
• Obtain a 3rd Class FAA Medical Certificate (or higher)
• English proficiency
• Completion of your High School diploma or equivalent

Part 141 vs. Part 61: What's the Difference?

When it comes to flight training, you’ll likely hear about two main paths: Part 141 and Part 61. So, what's the difference?

Part 141 training follows a strict syllabus that's been approved by the FAA. Both the student and the flight school must stick to the FAA-approved structure, meaning fewer training hours and a faster route to getting your Private Pilot License (PPL), which can save you time and money.

On the flip side, Part 61 training is more flexible. You can tailor your training schedule and pace, but you'll need to clock more flight hours. Also, keep in mind that some airlines and foreign aviation authorities may prefer or require Part 141 training. It's always a good idea to chat with our Admissions Team to align your training with your career goals.

If you really want to dive deep into the differences, you can check out the FAA regulations for Part 61 and Part 141.

Why Train at AOA?

At Academy of Aviation, we offer some great perks to make your training as smooth as possible:

• Cessna Pilot Center with glass cockpit and traditional aircraft options.
• FAA Part 141 approved training at all of our locations.
• Full-motion G1000® flight simulators.
• A mix of student-friendly and more professional airspace for diverse learning.
• Well-maintained airplanes.

How Fast Can You Get Your Private Pilot License?

How quickly you finish depends on how often you fly. If you fly about 5-6 hours a week, you could be ready for your check ride in just 6 weeks. But of course, you’ll need to put in the work—study hard, pass your FAA written exam, and stay committed.

We understand not everyone is on the airline career path, so we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate busy work or school schedules.

What Can You Do with a Private Pilot License?

A Private Pilot License (PPL) lets you fly anywhere in the U.S., as long as you follow the local regulations. While you can’t charge passengers for flights, you can split the cost of expenses like fuel. You’ll also get to avoid the hassle of sitting in traffic, flying anywhere under 18,000 feet during the day or night. Just keep in mind that until you get your Instrument Rating, bad weather and low visibility (like fog or heavy rain) will be off-limits.

Private Pilot Training Overview

During your training, you'll cover the basics: airspace, how planes work, performing maneuvers, talking to Air Traffic Control (ATC), takeoff procedures, and of course, landing—even in emergencies. It all starts with the theory, which you can complete in the classroom with us.

Simulator training is a great, cost-effective way to practice before taking to the skies. You can make mistakes, learn from them, and try again—all from the safety of the ground. If you’re not a native English speaker, we even use the simulator to practice ATC conversations, helping you feel confident when it’s time to fly.

After completing the required practical training, one of your big milestones will be your first solo flight—your first time flying alone! Once you’ve mastered the necessary skills, your instructor will endorse you for the FAA check ride.

The Check Ride

Your check ride includes a verbal exam to test your knowledge and a flight exam to demonstrate your skills. You’ll find out right away if you passed or if you need a little more practice. At Academy of Aviation, we’re proud to have a 92% first-time pass rate for PPL check rides. Once you pass, you’ll get a temporary license until your official card arrives in the mail from the FAA.

Introducing our "First Flight to First Officer" Career Program.

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Academy of Aviation helps you set reasonable expectations, and takes the lead in keeping those expectations on track.

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