The cost of getting a Private Pilot's License varies depending on which type of flight training program you you choose. Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 141 flight schools require an approved, structured course of training, which includes a specified number of hours of ground training. FAR Part 61 flight training only sets out a list of knowledge and experience requirements. In addition, the cost will also vary based on the the type of aircraft you train in and the total number of flying hours your flight instructor believes you need. The FAA requires a minimum of 35 to 40 hours but most people require an average of 60 to 75 hours of training.

Books, Charts & Tests

A number of aeronautical and flight training books and manuals will be required along with various sectional and regional charts. Books and charts cost approximately $250.

In addition, student pilots must pass an FAA written exam costing approximately $100 and do a check ride with a FAA examiner costing approximately $300.

Equipment & Gear

Student pilots will need a manual or electronic flight computer, a plotter, a kneeboard to hold charts, checklists and a notepad during flights, a flashlight for night flights, some form of headset and a flight bag to hold everything. Cost, mostly depending on the type of headset purchased, will range between $150 to $1000.

Aircraft Rental

A student pilot (based on their comfort and budget) and their Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) will decide which airplane is best for training. Aircraft rental will range between $75 per hour for a two-seat Cessna 152 to $150 per hour for a four-seat Cessna 182 with GPS and a 230HP engine.

Flight & Ground Instruction

CFI flight instruction for both ground and flight runs between $40 and $75 per hour, depending on the experience of the instructor.

FAA Medical Exam

In order to solo, student pilots need, at a minimum, a Third Class Medical Certificate from an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner. The cost runs between $75 and $150.

Total Cost

A student who finishes her training with the FAA minimum of 40 flight hours will pay approximately $6,000 while a student who finishes his training closer to the national average of 75 hours will pay approximately $10,500.

About the Author

When it comes to regional, market-driven cooking, many chefs talk the talk, but few walk the walk quite as ardently as Stuart Stein. Showcasing sustainable artisans across the U.S. has become a mission for this chef, author, culinary instructor and restaurateur. Additionally, Chef Stein is a private pilot flying out of the Pacific Northwest.

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