So you'd like to learn how to fly?

This website is continually updated to assist the aspiring airplane pilot find the answers to questions commonly asked, as well as become a resource in obtaining the information you will need to begin your journey.  You can post questions and comments at the bottom of any page to assist other students.

Although you can learn how to fly seaplanes, helicopters, gliders, and hot-air balloons, this site is primarily dedicated to the Private Pilot flying airplanes.

When should I start to learn to fly?

Learning to fly is one of the most rewarding challenges many people choose to undertake.

I chose to pursue a career in aviation about 7 years ago, starting as a student pilot, just as you may decide to do. The toughest decision you may have to ask yourself is, "When should I start?" And the answer is:

NOW!

No, you are not too young. No, you are not too old.

Just because you wear glasses or have contacts, that will not prohibit you from flying.

Everything else...

The next two topics need to be presented together, because they are very much interrelated. The first link describes the different types of places you can go to learn to fly, the second more about time & money. 

How Do I Begin Training?
Time and Money

Common Questions & What's Next?

Many people interested in flying have similar questions:

What are the requirements to become a certified pilot?
How often should I fly?
Which type of airplane should I fly: Piper, Cessna, or Diamond?
What is the training process or a typical lesson like?
Can I fly in the clouds?
What kind of supplies should I expect to buy?

For answers to these and other frequently asked questions, click on the link to my Frequently Asked Questions page.

Choosing the Right Flight Instructor

No one is more influential in your flight training than your Flight Instructor. A good Flight Instructor should make your flight training enjoyable. So, if it's not fun, why are you doing it?

I will go out on a limb here and say that, yes, there are good and bad Flight Instructors just as there are good and bad professionals in other occupations. For more information about choosing a Flight Instructor, click the link to my Flight Instructor Page.

For information about schools, supplies, and other information, please refer to the site map links on the right.