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If you ask a number of operators how much it will cost to get a private pilots license, you will receive a variety of answers. Some will tell you how much to "learn to fly " - by this they mean solo flight. Others use the FAA "approved school " minimums. We give it to you straight...
20 hours dual instruction including:
3 hours cross-country navigation and
3 hours night flight and some dual instrument instruction
- plus -
20 hours solo flight under supervision with
10 hours solo cross-country navigation
Experience shows that most students need 10 to 20 extra hours to reach the proficiency level needed to pass the FAA flight test. The current nation-wide average is nearly 70 hours. If you fly a Dragonfly Aviation Cessna 152 or Zodiac XL 601, the minimum program will cost:
20 hours dual at $ 160.00 per hour = $3,200
20 hours solo at $110.00 per hour = $2,200
Total (FAA minimums) = $5,400
You also will need ground training. We use the Cessna computer-based instruction system - a self-paced CD ROM-based set for your home or office computer at $ 329.00. Santa Rosa JC also offers a ground school course. We strongly recommend some formal course of instruction early in your flight training. We also offer supervised home study using study materials and video tapes. Flying and ground training are best taken together.
How much is a realistic budget, including 55 hours training and a few things not mentioned?
| FAA 40 hour minimum training |
$5,400 |
|
$2,025 |
| Approximately 10 hours of ground instruction | $500.00 |
| Cessna computer-based instruction includes supplies |
$329.00 |
| Maps, Airport Directory, Plotter, Cross-county planner |
$80.00 |
| Kneeboard |
$30.00 |
| Headset |
$125.00 |
| Medical examination |
$100.00 |
| FAA examiner's fee (written & flight) |
$400.00 |
| Club dues (6 months pro-rated) |
$60.00 |
Total Average Cost |
$ 9,500 |