Question 1

What are the requirements to become a private pilot?

Accepted Answer

- Candidate must be at least 17 years old to acquire your private pilot license. Candidate must be 16 years old to solo. There is no minimum age to begin flight training.

- Pass an FAA Third Class Medical exam.

- Complete a minimum of 40 hours of flight time; this includes 20 hours with an instructor and 10 hours of solo flight time.

- Pass the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test and the Practical Test.

Question 2

How long does it take to earn my private pilot license?

Accepted Answer

Private pilot training can take anywhere from 1 month to 1+ years depending on your availability and home study. We are open year-round, 7 days a week. Flight training is flexible around your schedule and we can accommodate most scheduling needs. We find that students are most successful when they schedule multiple times a week and do lots of home study.

Question 3

How often should I fly?

Accepted Answer

The more often you fly, the faster you'll earn your license. Flying frequently avoids having to review previously learned skills that become "rusty" through lack of practice.
We recommend taking lessons at least 2-to-3 times per week until you solo and one lesson per week thereafter.

Question 4

Do I need a headset?

Accepted Answer

A headset is necessary for flight training. While we have a limited number of headsets available to rent ($20/flight) at the front desk, we highly recommend purchasing your own headset before you begin training. These can be purchased used (FB Marketplace, Ebay, etc.) or locally at Aircraft Spruce.

Question 5

What can I do as a private pilot?

Accepted Answer

Once you've earned your PPL you may carry passengers (but not get paid for it) in a single engine airplane, day or night, in visual flying conditions. An airplane allows you to turn weekends into full, two-day vacations, eliminating long car rides and traffic jams.

Question 6

Do I need to get a medical examination before I begin my training?

Accepted Answer

While not technically required to start training, you must pass your medical exam in order to become a certificated pilot. As such, we highly recommend getting your medical exam early so there are no surprises. Click Here to find a FAA medical examiner near you.

Question 7

What’s the best way to get started?

Accepted Answer

You'll start by taking a discovery flight. During this flight your instructor will demonstrate how to prepare for a flight and operate the airplane systems. You will be at the controls for takeoff and in-flight, and assist in the landing. The introductory flight lesson will give you a taste of the fun and excitement of learning to fly. Once you start, your instructor will ensure that your training is efficient, thorough and fun.

Question 8

How much does getting your PPL cost?

Accepted Answer

We know that each person is unique, and each person’s “learning curve” is therefore unique, so we don’t package our training courses into a “one size fits all.” At Blue River Aviation, you will only pay for the products and services that you actually need and use – and – we will tell you up front what all you will be paying for. Take a look at our pricing estimates

Question 9

I started my training with another flight school. Can I finish my training at Blue River Aviation?

Accepted Answer

Many of the students who come here have received previous training somewhere else. We are happy to help you finish up your journey to becoming a pilot.

Question 10

I am not a US Citizen. Can I still train to become a pilot?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you must complete the Department of Homeland Security FTSP (Flight Training Security Program) requirements. Visit their online portal: Click Here to Get Started

Question 11

What is the weather like in Alaska? Do you fly year round?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we train and fly year round! The summers in Alaska are amazing and offer plenty of good weather and long days for training. In the winter we keep most of the planes in hangars and plugged in so they are warm and ready to go, even on the coldest days.