Thinking of becoming a pilot?
The decision to become a pilot is easy for most people, but the process to get there can be overwhelming. We understand that all students have different needs and goals. So we are committed to making the journey as simple yet enjoyable as possible.
What do I do first? Call us up at 850-398-6749 opt 4 or send an email to flighttraining@emeraldcoastaviation.com and schedule a 30-minute orientation flight with one of our professional flight instructors. You will have an opportunity to take the controls of our beautifully equipped 2021 G1000 Piper Archer, tour our training facility, and determine if flying is for you.
Ok, I want to get my Private Pilot License! You will need to obtain a FAA Medical Certificate. This is a routine medical exam given by a Doctor certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to perform these examinations. This exam will ensure you are medically qualified to fly an airplane.
What else is required? Homeland Security and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations require all students engaging in flight training must show proof of U.S. citizenship. Before the first flight lesson, students must provide a government issued photo I.D. AND one of the following: an original or certified copy of Certificate of Birth or a current U.S. Passport. These documents will be photocopied and kept on file for five years per TSA regulations. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may receive flight training but there are additional steps to take to become eligible.
What about Ground School? There is a 60-question written exam that students must pass with the minimum score of 70%. In order to take this exam, you must have an endorsement from a Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI) stating that you have gained the required knowledge and are prepared to take the exam. You and your instructor will work together to determine the best path to help you attain that knowledge.
How long does it take? The FAA mandates a minimum of 40 hours of flight time for a student pilot to be eligible for a Pilot’s License (see 61.109 Aeronautical Experience). The average flight lesson is between 1.5 to 2 hours long. During these flight lessons, students are taught how to perform the required flight maneuvers to the Private Pilot proficiency level. Attaining this level of proficiency is determined by how much you commit to your training. Just flying will not get you the license; you have to put in a lot of time studying on the ground between lessons to be successful. Your commitment will determine how long it takes you to complete your training and in turn, how much it will cost.
How difficult is it? The average student takes between 50-70 hours to reach the Private Pilot proficiency level. Is there a way to get there with less? Students that fly 2-3 times a week and study between lessons spend a lot less money and can get their license within 3-6 months. After you and your instructor decide you are ready, you will meet with an FAA-designated examiner for an oral and flight exam. Your aeronautical knowledge and proficiency will be rigorously tested by a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) but your extensive flight and ground training will fully prepare you to ace your check ride and in turn, help you earn your pilot’s certificate.
A preview of our current Application can be found here: