Do I need any flying experience to start?
No. Most of our students begin with no experience at all. We start with the fundamentals and build from there at a pace that suits you.

 

How old do I have to be to learn to fly?
We generally recommend being at least 15 prior to initiating training, though there is no statutory age requirement to receive flight training. To fly solo in an airplane you must be at least 16, and to earn a Private Pilot certificate you must be at least 17.

 

How do I get started?
Call us at 1-920-784-9367 or send a message through our contact form to schedule an introductory lesson and meet an instructor. Before you can fly solo, you’ll also need a student pilot certificate, which your instructor will help you apply for.

 

How long does it take to earn a Private Pilot certificate?
The FAA minimum under Part 61 is 40 flight hours, but most students need more, commonly 60 to 80 hours. The timeline depends on how often you fly, how much you study, and how quickly you progress.

 

How much does flight training cost?
Total cost depends on the number of hours you need, aircraft rental, instructor time, ground instruction, materials, and exam fees. Current aircraft rates are listed on our Aircraft & Rates page, and we’re happy to give you an honest estimate for your goal.

 

How often should I fly?
Two to three lessons per week is ideal because it keeps skills fresh and usually saves money overall. Flying less often is fine, but expect to spend more time reviewing between lessons.

 

What are the health requirements to become a pilot?
The FAA requires that pilots meet medical standards outlined in 14 CFR part 67, however commonly approves waivers for people who do not meet traditional medical standards but are safe to fly under special issuance. Most people who can get a driver's license can get a medical certificate. We recommend getting it early from an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner, before you invest heavily in training. We can assist with preparing for an airman medical exam and there are several great AME's in the area that we can recommend.

 

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to train?
No, but non-U.S. citizens must complete a TSA security process before beginning flight training. Contact us before you start and we’ll explain what’s required. You must also be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.

 

What is the difference between Part 61 and Part 141 training?
Both lead to the same FAA certificates and consist of a structured training program with completion requirements in accordance with FAA Airman Certification Standards. Part 141 training is regimented to a specific order of pre-packaged lessons, while Part 61 training is more flexible and can be tailored to your schedule and goals. Blue Sky Aviation is a Part 61 school.

 

What is the importance of ground training?
Ground training prepares you to be a safe pilot from a knowledge prospective, and is accomplished through a combination of an online ground school curriculum and instructor led one on one ground training.

 

What is a checkride?
The checkride is the FAA practical test for a certificate or rating. It is given by an FAA-designated examiner and includes an oral exam and a flight evaluation. Your instructor will only recommend you when you’re fully prepared.

 

What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first. If conditions aren’t suitable for your lesson, we’ll reschedule or use the time for ground instruction. Learning to make good weather decisions is a key part of your training.

 

Is flying safe?
Flying is extremely safe, and that safety is the result of proper training and adherence to regulations. We emphasize risk management, thorough preflight preparation, well-maintained aircraft, and clear personal minimums so you learn to fly safely from the first lesson.

 

What is an instrument rating, and do I need one?
An instrument rating lets you fly in clouds and low visibility, using only your instruments. It isn’t required for a Private Pilot certificate, but it makes you a more precise pilot and greatly expands when and where you can safely fly.

 

What does it take to earn a Commercial Pilot certificate?
You must be at least 18, hold a Private Pilot certificate, log at least 250 hours of flight time under Part 61, and pass a knowledge test and a checkride. A second-class medical certificate is required to fly for compensation.

 

What does it take to make a career out of flying?
With proper dedication and training, flying can become an amazing career. Many people train starting from high school age, while others switch to an aviation career after spending time in other industries. Commonly desirable aviation careers such as airlines and high quality corporate aviation or charters generally require 1,500-3,000 hours of flight time, with reduced requirements for some college graduates and military pilots. Most people starting from zero experience can expect to spend 5-7 years in aviation before being experienced enough to be competitive applicants. Training is a significant investment of time and money, so we’ll discuss the costs, timelines, and the professional pilot lifestyle with you before you commit.

 

How do I become a flight instructor?
You’ll need a Commercial Pilot certificate with an instrument rating, then complete instructor training and pass two FAA knowledge tests and a checkride. Many pilots instruct to build flight time for a career, and others simply love teaching.

 

I haven’t flown in years. How do I get current again?
Welcome back! We customize a plan around how long it’s been, your experience, and your goals. Most pilots start with a flight review, which requires at least one hour of ground and one hour of flight instruction, and add more training as needed.

 

Do you offer aircraft transition and avionics training?
Yes. We provide transition training for aircraft such as the Mooney M20, Beechcraft Bonanza, Cessna 172/182, Piper Aztec/Apache, Seneca, and Cherokee Six. We also teach Garmin avionics, including the G1000, GTN-series navigators, and GFC autopilots.