PETALUMA PILOTS
What does it take?
Not sure where to start? We recommend one of our introductory flights. You can go flying for an hour with one of our instructors to see if flying is really for you. An intro flight will give you the chance to meet an instructor and see what it is like to fly inside of a smaller plane.
Private Pilot Certificate
Requirements:
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Be English proficient
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At least 16 years old to solo, 17 to get your pilot's certificate
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Proof of U.S. Citizenship, or TSA approval prior to the begining of your training
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Pass the medical examination
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Pass the written exam with at least a 70%
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Minimum of 40 hours of training (20 dual instruction, 20 solo practice)
Keep in mind...
The national average for someone to get their certificate is 80 hours.
For more information on how to get your Private Pilot Certificate:
Instrument Rating
Requirements:
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Private Pilot rating
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Proof of U.S. Citizenship, or TSA approval prior to the begining of your training
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Pass the written exam with at least a 70%
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50 hours of Pilot in command cross country time
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40 hours of simulated or actual instrument time
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15 hours of flight instruction
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250 nautical miles cross country with simulated instrument conditions
Complex Airplane and High Performance Endorsements
Complex Aircraft Endorsement
A complex aircraft is one which has manually or automatically controllable pitch propeller, flaps, and retractable landing gear. To be legal to fly a "complex airplane" under 61.31, you need a sign off by a flight instructor.
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Complex aircraft training takes an average of 5 – 10 flight hours depending on a candidate's flight experience.
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This is a one-time logbook endorsement.
High-Performance Aircraft Endorsement
High-performance aircraft training and certification takes an average of 5-10 flight hours depending on a candidate's flight experience and the type of aircraft used.
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This one-time logbook endorsement can be earned through ground and flight training.
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The FAA does not require a special checkride or knowledge test to earn the endorsement.
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A flight instructor gives you the endorsement after you have received training and have been found proficient.
Ground School
There are many different options when it comes to preparing to take the written test for your private pilot certificate, or instrument rating.
We recommend taking an online ground school. There are plenty of options available online however we recommend Sporty's.
Another option is home study. There are plenty of books, DVD's, and computer software out there to help you learn everything you need to know.
Or you could always do it one on one with your instructor.
The choice is of course yours, and it all depends on what works best with your personal learning style.
Click here for information regarding Sporty's Online Ground School.
Still Have Questions?
Check our F.A.Q.'s section here.
Or feel free to reach out to us with the form on the contact page.