How to Enroll in Flight School

Becoming a pilot is one of the most exciting, and profitable, careers an individual can choose. While many are interested in this career path, how to become a pilot may not be as clear as their decision to become one. In order to become a pilot, flight school is your first step. There is literally a flight school in almost every community across the country, but in order to get the most out of this experience, you need to know how and what type of flight school you should enroll in.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet
• Paper and Pen
• Identification (Drivers License, Social Security Card, etc.)

Finding and Enrolling in Flight School

1. To start your search for the perfect flight school, you need to know what types of flight schools are available in your area. There are two main types of flight schools – Part 61 and Part 141. These two are basically different because they require two different minimum flight times for private certification. Part 61 requires 40 hours of flight time and Part 141 only requires 35. If you desire your flight certification for a hobby, then these are the two main schools you will be interested in attending.

2. If you are seeking out a flight school to meet your desire of becoming a professional pilot, then you will attend an aviation school that operations not only under FAA guidelines, but also through the U.S. Department of Education. An example of this type of school is the Westwood School of Aeronautics, which is located in Phoenix, AZ.

3. Be prepared to bring along numerous forms of identification. While each state may have different requirements, a drivers license, social security card and birth certificate are normally the main forms of identification needed. If you are applying for a professional flight training school, you will more then likely have to provide the above forms of identification as well as undergo a simple medical exam that is performed by an FAA-approved doctor.

4. Once you have located a flight school that meets your requirements, professional flight school or private pilot certification, you will want to find out the answers to several questions: How long has this flight school been in operation? What are the schools credentials? If you are planning on obtaining a professional aviation degree, do they offer job placement services? What is the school’s reputation? Finding out these answers can save you time and money.

5. Always visit the flight school you are planning to attend prior to enrolling. You will want to speak with the admissions advisor if you are going to a professional flight school, or even the chief flight instructor for private pilot certification schools. Always ask questions and make sure the flight school you choose will provide you with the appropriate information and training to meet your flight goals.

Tips & Warnings

• Always research a flight school before enrolling.
• If possible, finance your tuition through a bank rather than through the school.
• During your initial interview, ask for a list of references.

Resources

• Pilot Journey
• Flight School Information
• Westwind School of Aeronautics