AeroClub Flying Information

What does it take to earn a private pilot license?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that a pilot acquire a minimum of 40 hours of flight time to apply for a private pilot license. Some of this time is with your flight instructor, and some is by yourself (after you solo, of course). This 40 hour minimum is just that, a minimum. Generally, it takes the average person a few more hours to learn to operate safely as a private pilot in today's complex and busy airspace system. During your training, you will be exposed to a great many facets of aviation. Listed below are just some of the highlights.

cross county flying
night flying
crosswind technique
maximum performance maneuvers
emergency procedures

What kind of airplane will I train in?

The UTSI AeroClub operates a Cessna 150, which is a single engine trainer. Pictures of the aircraft are available on the UTSI AeroClub homepage.

When do I solo?

As you train with your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), you will learn how to safely operate the aircraft through the basics of flight, from takeoff to landing. After several hours, your instructor will feel that you are safe to operate the airplane by yourself (under their supervision, of course). This is when you solo. At this time, you become a licensed student pilot. The specific amount of time it takes to solo varies greatly, and is dependent on several factors. Your flight instructor will be better able to answer this question as he or she tailors the instruction to your needs.

What can I do with a private license?

When you earn your private pilot license, you will be able to fly single-engine airplanes under visual flight rules (this means - not in the clouds). You will be legal to carry passengers, fly at night, and fly anywhere in the country you wish to go.

What are the age requirements?

There is no specific age limit to take lessons with a certified flight instructor. To be eligible to solo (student pilot license) an individual must be at least 16 years of age. To be eligible for a private pilot license, you must be at least 17 years of age.

What other ratings can I earn?

Once you have your private license, you can go on to earn an instrument rating (allowing you to fly in the clouds), a multi-engine rating (allowing you to fly airplanes with more than one engine), or advanced licenses, such as a commercial pilot license.

How do I start?

Print out the membership and release forms below, fill them out, and turn them into the UTSI Aeroclub President or one of the other officers.

• Membership Form
• Release Form

What will it cost?
 

UTSI students may receive a SISGA discount on the Aircraft rate of $5 or $10 an hour. Instructional fees listed represent the maximum rate. Some instructors will provide instruction at more reasonable rates.

How long will it Take?

If you fly 2 hours a week---------------------------------- 20 weeks
              3 hours a week---------------------------------- 13 weeks
              4 hours a week---------------------------------- 10 weeks

Typical Scenario:

1. Join UTSI Aero Club.
2. Receive 10-12 hours of Dual instruction in conjunction with watching the video course.
3. Receive Medical Exam.
4. Perform first Solo Flight.
5. Receive more Dual Instruction for cross country flights.
6. Perform Solo cross country flights.
7. Practice, Practice, Practice
8. Take FAA Private Pilot written exam.
9. Take Flight Evaluation.

Receive Private Pilot's License !!!!